City of York Council is reminding residents and businesses that support is available for those who are currently in council tax or business rates arrears due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Over the next week we will be contacting people who are currently in arrears with their council tax or business rates offering support and information

Revenue from council tax and business rates is essential to ensure the council can continue to provide a wide range of services to support residents, our most vulnerable citizen and businesses across the city.

Executive Member for Finance and Performance, Cllr Nigel Ayre, said:

“The coronavirus pandemic has affected us all in many ways. We are aware that as well as the health concerns we all have, some may have financial worries due to being furloughed, restrictions on work and job losses.

We want to help those who may be worried about paying their bill and make sure as much as possible that this doesn’t add to peoples worries.

There’s support available for residents who are struggling with money and paying bills. You may be eligible for financial support or entitled to a discount on your bill. I would urge anyone who is concerned to get in touch so we can help with your options.”

Several support schemes are currently in place, including:

  • Council Tax Support – the amount people get is based on their household income and savings, so are likely to qualify if on welfare benefits or a low income.
  • Council Tax Discretionary Reduction Scheme - provides extra assistance for people who are unable to pay their council tax bill. People can apply for this reduction whether or not they are eligible for, or receive Council Tax Support.
  • Some people can get a discount on their Council Tax bill, to check what discounts are available please visit www.york.gov.uk/counciltax

Only a small amount of businesses will be receiving business rates reminders as the council have awarded over £70 million in discounts to Retail, Hospitality & Leisure businesses. We have also worked to support businesses since the start of the pandemic by distributing over £47 million in business support grants.