William Eichler 05 March 2018

Scottish households on low income ‘missing out’ on tax exemption

Fewer than 4% of Scottish households eligible for council tax exemption are claiming the new benefit, research reveals.

The exemption was brought in by the Scottish government last April to protect low earners from council tax band changes that amount to a £110m increase.

However, freedom of information requests made by Scottish Labour found that fewer than 2,000 households out of a potential 54,000 have been awarded the new benefit.

Scottish Labour also found up to a third of those eligible for the reduction were pensioners.  

‘Over 50,000 households were meant to benefit from this exemption from higher council tax charges, but just a handful actually are,’ said Scottish Labour’s social security spokesperson, Mark Griffin.

‘Struggling families and pensioners are missing out on key support and facing massive council tax bills as a result.’

‘We need to see more action from the SNP to boost take-up, and getting people the support they deserve,’ he added.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Housing

North West Leicestershire District Council
£64,241 to £74,525 (plus car allowance)
We are currently seeking a new Head of Housing to lead a number of key service areas Leicestershire
Recuriter: North West Leicestershire District Council

Director of People

Bolton Cares
£80,287 – subject to skills and experience
Bolton Cares is on an exciting journey of transformation and growth and we’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to help shape our future. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Cares

Director of Finance (Strategy) – deputy S151

Nottingham City Council
up to £125k
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Learning Tutor Maths WMF2142e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235.00 - £36,124.00 (pro rata)
We are looking for an inspirational tutor to deliver maths courses to our learners across Carlisle. Carlisle, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Adult Learning Tutor ESOL English WMF2144e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235 - £36,124 (pro rata)
We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual with experience of teaching ESOL. Whitehaven, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner