Islington residents may have to pay more council tax

Government changes to council tax benefit mean residents in Islington may have to pay more council tax, or pay council tax for the first time. 

The Government is proposing to scrap current council tax benefit arrangements, and instead give councils responsibility for a new support scheme.

Under the proposals, the Government would cut millions of pounds from the amount of council tax benefit money it provides to Islington, an estimated £2.9 million for 2013/14.

If the Government proposals go ahead, the council will consult in the autumn on a new support scheme for Islington residents, and ask for residents' comments.

Cllr Catherine West, leader of Islington Council, said: "We're on the side of residents in these tough times and are concerned that under these Government proposals, many people in Islington may have to pay more council tax, or pay council tax for the first time. 

"If the Government proposals go ahead we will ask our residents for their views on a new support scheme when we consult later this year."

The council is writing to council tax benefit recipients in Islington who could be affected.

You can get free and confidential money advice from the Islington Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) at 222 Upper Street, N1 1XR.  See www.cabislington.org.uk or call 08444 111 444.

You can also find money advice on the council's website at www.islington.gov.uk/moneyadvice