Proposed changes include lowering the maximum discount from 85% to 80% and reducing the number of income bands, as the council seeks to balance its budget amidst ongoing cuts to government funding.
Rochdale Borough Council has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to its Council Tax Support Scheme, which helps low-income households pay their Council Tax.
Under the current scheme, working-age residents can receive up to 85% off their council tax bill depending on income. The council is proposing to reduce this maximum discount to 80%, increase the minimum level of support from 50p to £2 per week, and simplify the system by reducing the number of income bands from seven to four, with income thresholds adjusted for inflation.
The council says the proposed changes are necessary due to reduced government funding and increasing budget pressures.
Councillor Carol Wardle, Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
“Because we’re thinking about making some changes to the scheme, we want to get views from residents. Everyone, whether they are in receipt of Local Council Tax Support or not, is welcome to give their views."
“Lots of people need our help and things are getting more expensive. We want to see if we can make changes to save money and keep our budget balanced. What residents tell us will help us decide how to give support to households who need it, so that it’s fair and works well for everyone.”
The changes would apply only to working-age claimants. Pensioners are supported through a separate scheme which is not being altered.
Residents can read more about the proposals and complete the survey online at: https://rochdale.gov.uk/CouncilTax
The consultation closes on Friday 16 January 2026.
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