Pensioners get help with council tax

Pensioners could be in line for a £50 cash windfall to help pay their council tax.

Neath Port Talbot Council has received funds from the Welsh Assembly Government to introduce a scheme to help pensioners to pay their council tax.

Under the scheme, the Council will reduce council tax bills for pensioners who are aged 65 or over on 30th November 2009 and who are receiving partial council tax benefit.

The Council will write to the pensioners who qualify for the payment in early December. However, if you are not already receiving council tax benefit, it's not too late to apply.

You can get an application form at any of the Council's offices or you can phone 01639 686838 and an application form will be sent out. Advisors can also visit you in your own home to help you fill in the form. If you do receive a visit, remember to always ask to see identification.

Councillor Ali Thomas, Leader of the Council, said the Authority was pleased to be able to do something to help some of the county borough's pensioners to pay their council tax bills.

"I would urge those pensioners who are not claiming council tax benefit to apply and see if they are entitled to help with their bills," he said "You have nothing to lose - get an application form today."