More support for low-income households through Council Tax Support scheme updates

The Council Tax Support (CTS) scheme helps reduce the amount of Council Tax that people on low incomes have to pay. The proposed update would raise income bands by 3.5% or in line with benefit increases. This will ensure that people don’t lose the support they rely on simply because of small inflation-related changes in their income. 

Councillor Alaric Smith, Executive Member for Finance, said: “We know many people in our district are still facing the cost-of-living pressures caused by price-inflation outpacing wage inflation in many of the last few years. By reviewing and updating the scheme, we’re making sure we keep up with inflation and protect support for those who need it most. It’s one of the ways we’re working to ease the burden many households face and help families manage their household bills.” 

Without this change, wage increases expected in 2026 could push some households into higher payment bands and reduce the support they currently receive. The Council’s plans aim to prevent this from happening. 

The Council is also proposing to carry over more than £78,000 from its Hardship Fund to ensure extra help remains available for those who need it most. Alongside this financial support, council officers will continue working closely with residents, helping them to manage bills, apply for benefits, and connect with other local services that can offer further assistance. 

The updates are part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to putting residents first, responding to the cost of living crisis and enabling everyone in West Oxfordshire to have a good quality of life. 

On Wednesday 3 December, Full Council approved the proposed changes to the CTS scheme. The changes will come into effect from April 2026 and will mean that most people will stay in their current support band. This means no one will lose out, and many residents will be protected from higher bills. 

For more information about Council Tax Support and help with household finances, visit: www.westoxon.gov.uk/counciltax