The Government should carry out and publish research to assess different types of local council tax support schemes and how they relate to council tax arrears. In addition to collection rates and levels of arrears, the Government should also publish local authority level data on: methods used to engage with debtors; collection methods; the 38 Council Tax Collection number of affordable repayment plans set up; and reasons for arrears. The new Office for Local Government should have a role in c...

The Government should carry out and publish research to assess different types of local council tax support schemes and how they relate to council tax arrears. In addition to collection rates and levels of arrears, the Government should also publish local authority level data on: methods used to engage with debtors; collection methods; the 38 Council Tax Collection number of affordable repayment plans set up; and reasons for arrears. The new Office for Local Government should have a role in collecting, analysing and publishing this data. Type: recommendation | Number: 17 | Paragraph: 87 | Response status: not_accepted Government response: Local council tax support (LCTS) was put in place from 1 April 2013 to ensure that those in financial need are assisted with their council tax bill. Pension age LCTS schemes are made according to the terms of a centrally defined scheme set out in regulations. Reflecting the fact that pensioners are