The coronavirus pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the UK economy.
Businesses across the retail, hospitality and aviation industries have all been badly affected, while many households have had to deal with loss of income and financial instablilty.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced various measures designed to help people through the crisis.
The government will pay 80% of the wages of furloughed workers, while a £500 million Hardship Fund will help those struggling to pay their council tax. But who's eligible and how does it work?
Do you have to pay council tax this month?
Vulnerable people and those most affected by coronavirus may have their council tax bills reduced this month.
The government has allocated £500 million to a Hardship Fund, which will be distributed to local authorities around the country.
Local authorities will use the money to support working age people who are on a Local Council Tax Support scheme. Their council tax could be slashed by £150 a year.
Those who already pay less than £150 a year will not pay council tax at all.
Who gets the council tax reduction?
Those who are already on a Local Council Tax Support Scheme are eligible and will get the reduction to their bill.
This is because they have been identified as the people most vulnerable to a sudden change in income.
If you are not currently on a Council Tax Support Scheme, you may see an increase in your bill this month.
Almost every local authority in England is raising the charge by the maximum of 3.99%, with the new rates effective from 1 April 2020.
If you have been financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and don't think you'll be able to pay your council tax, you should contact your local council.
