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Question from: County Councillor Jon Williams Subject: Council Tax Notices
Question: With the current emergency effecting the country, could the portfolio holder please tell me, was it essential to deliver the council tax notices at this time. What help or measures are in place or will be put into place to help support the many businesses and residents that find themselves unable to trade, are on reduced or no wage at all and have very real concerns about being able to make these payments. Will there be any period of grace to pay the council tax.
Minutes: Response by the Portfolio Holder:
The impact of the Coronavirus is challenging for us all. We are bound by legislation as to when we issue our Council Tax demands and appreciate that they are arriving with residents when many of them are concerned about the virus and how it will affect them and their family.
The Council is unable to apply an overarching waiver or freeze on Council Tax for all residents, but we can support residents who are experiencing an adverse impact on their financial position.
The council has a team of officers who can offer confidential help and support around the various Coronavirus finance schemes being announced as well as helping residents to find other reliefs, benefits or awards they may be entitled to. Our officers can also offer advice to assist residents in finding ways to manage their money including ways to spread payments including Council Tax and also help them to manage any debt.
We have a number of support lines for residents and businesses where we can give tailored advice and support. It is open 9am to 4pm each day and the number is 015967 826345.
Another line is available for residents specifically 01597 827462 available between 9am and 1pm each day. Alternatively residents can make an online request via www.powys.gov.uk/benefitsadvice.
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