NEARLY 45,000 households across Cheshire West and Chester face delays in receiving a £150 council tax rebate to help with soaring energy bills.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced the rebates as part of a government response to the impact of rising energy costs on hard-pressed households.

In April the £150 will automatically be paid into the bank accounts of residents in properties in Bands A to D. But the money will only be paid directly to anyone who pays their council tax by direct debit.

The Guardian has learned Cheshire West and Chester Council estimates there are 44,576 households in the borough who do not pay by direct debit, instead paying via other methods such as cash or cheque. They all face having to apply directly, which local government chiefs warned could result in delays.

The council said it has sent out a mail shot to those who do not pay by direct debit to get them to apply.

Shaun Davies, chairman of the Local Government Assosiation's resources board,  said:  “This year will be tougher than most, particularly for those on lower incomes, so it is good that the Government is stepping in to provide financial support to help ease these pressures.”

He said that having a direct debit set up will mean councils can automatically pay the £150 energy rebate straight into residents’ bank accounts. He said those who do not have one can set one up via a council's website.

He added: “You can still get the money if you don't have a direct debit set up, but it could take longer as your council will have to contact you and then you'll have to make a claim.”

The Government previously announced a package of support known as the Energy Bills Rebate to help households with rising energy costs, worth £9.1 billion in 2022-23. It also includes £144 million of discretionary funding for councils to support households who are in need but are not eligible for the council tax rebate.