According to Stafford Borough Council, nearly £5 million has been paid to households across the borough as part of the Government’s ‘energy rebate.’
Around 48,000 Stafford Borough residents in council tax bands A to D are entitled to the one-off, £150 payment – which does not need to be repaid
The vast majority of people who pay their council tax by direct debit have now received the money – more than £4.75m – with the rest to be paid before the end of the month.
And this week forms will be available for those who do not pay by direct debit to apply for the cash.
The rebate was introduced by the Government for households most likely to be affected by the increases in energy costs – with local authorities asked to distribute the money. Full details of the scheme can be found at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/CTER
The money is paid to the person responsible for the council tax payment – but does not show on the council tax bill. The £150 has been paid separately and directly to the people who qualify and straight into their bank account, where possible.
A small fund is also available to help vulnerable residents who do not qualify for this payment with more details on how this will operate to be announced soon.
Councillor Mike Smith, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources, said:
“I am pleased we have already made payments to a large proportion of those entitled to this energy rebate.
“The majority who pay by direct debit have already received payment and a simple application process will soon be available for others.”
He added: “We want to get these payments to our residents as soon as possible. It is a huge task to assist around 90% of our households, many of whom we do not hold bank details for, and I thank people for their patience.”
