Council Tax Reduction

Relief Scheme for Almost Half a Million Households

The SNP Scottish Government has been clear that one of its key missions is to eradicate child poverty. The Council Tax Reduction scheme is just one of the ground-breaking initiatives that we have introduced and continue to fund to support households.

Households across Scotland have received over £4.1 billion in relief since the Council Tax Reduction scheme was introduced in 2013.

People on low incomes are eligible for the benefit if they live in Scotland. There is no equivalent in England, where most councils require each household to contribute a minimum amount of council tax irrespective of ability to do so.

The latest figures show well over 450,000 recipients eligible for Council Tax Reduction, saving an average of over £850 a year.

People struggling with Council Tax arrears also have access to enhanced advice through the nationwide expansion of a Citizens Advice Scotland project, backed by additional Scottish Government funding.

The project provides tailored support to affected households and works with local authorities to support good practice in Council Tax debt collection, promoting a dignified and empathetic approach.

Partnering with COSLA, the SNP is examining ways to make Council Tax fairer, which will help to continue to deliver better public services across Scotland. By working closely with local authorities and listening to the public, we will be seeking a consensus on a local taxation system that is fairer, financially sustainable and fits a modern Scotland.

In the immediate term, the SNP Government has, though its 2026-27 Scottish Budget, delivered record funding to councils of almost £15.7 billion to deliver key public services. That includes a 6.5% increase to Angus Council's budget.