Desperate Brits have been queuing at pawnbroker shops to cash in their £150 council tax rebates because they cannot afford to wait for the money.
One pawnbroker - Cash Shop in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, had to briefly turn customers away on Thursday because demand was so high that they ran out of money.
The store charges 7.9% commission and a £2.99 handling fee leaving those cashing in a £150 rebate cheque with around £135.