Each year, we must decide whether to change the council tax reduction scheme for working age applicants in its area.

Currently, council tax and other income doesn’t cover the cost of the services the council provides to people. Very difficult decisions therefore need to be made, in order to help manage our budget.

It is proposed that as part of managing these significant budget issues, we will need to make the following amendments to the working age scheme:

• by reducing the maximum level of support that can be granted; and
• by reducing the maximum level of capital (savings) that can be held before losing entitlement

There are no changes for Pension Age applicants as they are part of the national scheme.

Background information

What is council tax reduction?
Council tax reduction is a discount that helps people on low incomes pay their council tax bill. The level of discount is based on the income of the household.

Why are we making changes?

Due to the severe financial constraints that the Council is experiencing, from 1 April 2026 the council proposes to:

• reduce the maximum level of support for working age applicants and require all working age applicants to pay a minimum of 22% of their council tax liability; and
• reduce the maximum capital (savings) level from the current £16,000 to £6,000

It is expected that this will provide the council with savings of around £900k in 2026/27.

This change will not affect pension age applicants whose entitlement is prescribed by government.

To take part in the consultation and have your say, you can complete the online survey, it will take about 10 minutes.

Responses must be received by 24 November 2025 at 5pm

Comments can also be emailed to consultation@warrington.gov.uk or write to:

Warrington Borough Council
Council tax reduction scheme 2026-27
East Annex
Town Hall
Sankey Street
WA1 1UH

Other formats

Council information is also available in audio, Braille, large print, or other formats. If you would like a copy in a different format, in another language, require a BSL interpreter or require assistance in completing the form email consultation@warrington.gov.uk or telephone 01925 443322.