Who is eligible and how to get £2,000
The Government announced yesterday that the scrappage scheme has been extended ahead of the expansion of the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) scheme.
London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has confirmed that all Londoners with a non-compliant car can access up to £2,000 to replace their vehicles in a bid to encourage drivers to switch over to greener modes of transport.
Extra support is also available for small businesses, charities, and people with disabilities. Previously, only those who are means tested could apply for the scheme.
Mr Khan said that he would put £50m behind the expansion, bringing the total up to £160m.
“I have always said that expanding Ulez to the whole of London was a difficult decision, and not one I took lightly – but it’s a decision I remain committed to seeing through,” Mr Khan said.
He added that he was not prepared to “step back, delay, or water down” climate friendly policies.
However, on Friday it was revealed that anyone who has already swapped their vehicle for a clean alternative cannot apply for the scheme retrospectively.
The scheme will mean that all Londoners with non-compliant vehicles will be charged £12.50 a day to drive at any time of the day or night.
When does the expanded Ulez zone and scrappage scheme begin?
The scrappage scheme will get under way from 21 August, 2023, whereas the Ulez expands from 29 August, 2023.
Who can apply for the Ulez scrappage scheme?
The Ulez scrappage scheme is split into two categories. The first applies to private owners of cars, motorcycles and wheelchair accessible vehicles.
The second applies to “micro” businesses, sole traders and charities with non-compliant vans or minibuses.
The Ulez car and motorcycle scrappage scheme is for those living within London’s 32 boroughs or the City of London who are on one or more of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Child Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Personal Independence Payment
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Working Tax Credit
How much money could I get for scrapping my vehicle?
Mr Khan said that every motorist in London with a “non compliant” car will be eligible for the scrappage scheme, with which you can access £2,000 for a replacement.
Owners of polluting vans could also see grants increase from £5,000- 7,000, while grants for wheelchair users will also increase from £5- 10,000.
Small businesses and sole traders will now be able to scrap up to three vehicles, while extra support for charities will also be provided.
What do I need to apply for the scrappage scheme?
To apply for the scheme, Transport for London (TfL) says that you need to make sure you prepare the following:
- To have, or create, a valid Road User Charges account, with the name of the account matching the claimant
- You’ll need to have a valid e-mail address
- Make sure you have all ID and official documents about you and the relevant vehicle
- You’ll need to make sure you can complete the application in one go, as the page will time out after 30 minutes
What happens when I apply for the Ulez scrappage scheme?
There are three stages to the scheme.
First, you’ll have to go through the application process. TfL said you’ll be contacted within 10 working days and that you should be contacted via e-mail.
If you’re application is approved, you’ll be able to scrap your vehicle at an authorised treatment facility. You’ll then receive a retrofit invoice and vehicle installation certificate.
You should send this information to TFL within six months. You’ll receive a grant payment once the information has been verified.
Visit the TfL website for more details.
