Chesterfield Borough Council issues important information about council tax during coronavirus crisis

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of the council, said the authority was ‘committed to helping all residents during this unprecedented crisis’.

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She added: “Council tax helps pay for the essential services that we provide but we understand that for some residents keeping payments on the current schedule simply isn’t possible and we want you to know that we can be flexible, and that support is available.”

A council spokesperson explained: “Usually, most of our residents pay their council tax in 10 monthly instalments, starting in April and finishing in January.

“However, we recognise that during the current crisis, some residents may need to talk with us about a more flexible payment plan.

“We can offer residents a 12 month payment plan for their council tax which would run to March 2021, which will lower monthly payments.

“If you would like to implement a 12 month payment plan, please let us know by emailing [email protected]

“Please ensure that your email includes your council tax account number.”

The spokesperson added: “If you are on a low income, we may also be able to help you to claim a reduction on your council tax bill through our council tax support scheme.

“We will also be providing working age residents who already receive council tax support with an additional reduction in council tax of up to £150.

“This will further reduce the amount that these residents need to pay of their council tax bill.

“In many cases, this will mean that residents will not need to pay anything for 2020-21.

“All residents who are entitled to receive this additional support do not need to do anything, new bills will be issued to these residents during April.

“Where residents have already paid council tax at a higher level, the council will refund payments as soon as possible.”

For more information about the above, residents can email the council via [email protected] or call 01246 345 345.

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