Council Set To Maintain Current Council Tax Support For Low-Income Residents

Isle of Wight residents on low incomes are set to continue receiving the same level of council tax support next year, despite annual increases in property levies.

A report published ahead of Wednesday’s (January 21) full council meeting recommends keeping the Local Council Tax Support (LCTS) scheme for 2026/27 unchanged.

The proposal comes after a public consultation in which 163 residents took part, with most saying the current level of support is sufficient.

Under the existing scheme, claimants can receive up to a 75% reduction in their council tax bills. Examples include couples with children earning up to £315 per week, single people earning up to £95 per week, and single parents with one child earning up to £180 per week.

The minimum support, a 25% reduction, is available to those earning between £195.01 and £245 per week.

County Hall’s Exceptional Hardship Fund, which provides additional support for residents experiencing extreme financial difficulties, is also recommended to continue.

The council’s report notes that rising council tax has made it harder for some residents to pay their bills.

However, it states that maintaining the current scheme allows the authority to manage its finances carefully, helping it respond to inflation and fluctuating service demand while providing stability for claimants.

Full council will meet at County Hall at 6pm on Wednesday to discuss the recommendation.