Richmond residents urged to check eligibility for Council Tax Reduction

As part of ongoing efforts to support local households navigating the rising cost of living across London and the wider UK, Richmond Council is contacting residents who may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction.

The scheme can reduce Council Tax bills by up to 100% for those on low incomes or certain benefits, helping to ease pressure on already stretched household budgets.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: "We know that many households – including here in Richmond upon Thames – continue to feel the pressure of rising costs. Council Tax Reduction is one of the most direct ways we can help residents manage those pressures and ease the burden on household budgets."

Households across the country continue to face economic strain. One in four people in the UK are grappling with financial pressures, according to recent research from the Financial Conduct Authority, with many missing payments, struggling to keep up with commitments, or lacking savings to help them through difficulties.

This year, Richmond Council is stepping up its support, running a borough-wide awareness campaign to make sure residents know what help is available – ensuring no one misses out on vital assistance. 
 
To make sure Council support reaches those who need it most, the Council uses the Low Income Family Tracker – a data tool that helps identify residents who may be missing out on support. This proactive approach has already unlocked more than £8 million in savings for vulnerable households in recent years.

Councillor Jim Millard, Lead Member for Finance, added: "It isn't always possible to identify everyone who qualifies, which is why we’re now writing directly to households across the borough to encourage them to check and apply. Even a small reduction can make a real difference."

Firoozeh Fattahi, Project and Development Manager at Citizens Advice Richmond agreed: "We see first-hand the challenges residents face in managing household bills – especially Council Tax – amid the cost of living, echoing a trend we’re seeing nationwide. Working alongside Richmond Council, we encourage anyone in the borough unsure about whether they may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction to get in contact – even a brief conversation with an adviser can provide valuable guidance and reassurance."

Residents can also use the Council’s online calculator to check eligibility in around 10 minutes. Applications can be made online at www.richmond.gov.uk/benefits, or by calling 020 8891 1411 to request a paper form.

Anyone who needs help completing an application can contact the Council's benefits team by calling 020 8891 1411, emailing benefits@richmond.gov.uk, or using the online contact form.

For support and information:

• Visit the Richmond Cost of Living Hub for help with household bills, employment, and local services
• Sign up for cost of living updates direct to your inbox