A recent study shows that the poorest households in the UK are now paying a higher percentage of their income toward council tax. This growing burden on low-income families is causing financial strain, with many finding it increasingly difficult to meet their basic needs while also keeping up with tax payments.
“Council tax has become a heavy weight on families already struggling to make ends meet,” said Sarah Jones, an economist who contributed to the study. “The poorest households are paying a much higher share of their income compared to wealthier families.”
The research found that, on average, households with the lowest incomes are paying around 10% of their total earnings in council tax. In contrast, wealthier families pay a much smaller portion of their income, widening the gap between the rich and the poor in terms of financial strain.
One family from Birmingham shared their experience, explaining how council tax payments have become an unmanageable expense. “Every month, we have to decide whether we should pay the tax or buy food,” said John Peterson, a father of three. “We just can’t keep up.”
The study also highlighted the growing inequality in the UK, where low-income households are increasingly bearing the brunt of economic challenges. Many families in the lowest income brackets are now forced to choose between paying taxes or paying for other essential services like healthcare, utilities, or transportation.
“The council tax system is outdated and unfair,” said Jones. “It should be restructured to ensure that those who can afford to pay contribute more, while those who are struggling are given relief.”
The issue has sparked debate among lawmakers and social justice groups, who are calling for reform. Some are advocating for a more progressive council tax system, where rates are based on a family’s income rather than property value, to make payments more manageable for low-income families.
However, the government has not yet made any major changes to the system. While some areas have introduced discounts or exemptions for the poorest families, these measures have been criticized as insufficient to address the growing financial burden.
Experts say that unless reforms are made, the problem will only get worse, putting more pressure on vulnerable families. “If the system stays the same, we risk pushing more families into poverty,” warned a poverty advocacy group.
Many people in the UK are now calling for a complete overhaul of the council tax system to make it fairer. A petition to reform council tax has already gained significant support, with thousands of signatures from concerned citizens.
Despite these calls for change, it remains unclear whether the government will act. The debate continues, and as more families struggle with rising costs, the urgency for reform grows.
As the situation worsens, many are hopeful that increased public awareness will lead to meaningful change. Advocates are urging the government to act before more families are pushed into deeper financial hardship. “We cannot allow the poorest people to bear the heaviest tax burden,” said one activist. “It’s time for a change.”
