Each councillor is entitled to a basic allowance which is intended to recognise the time devoted by councillors to their work, including their community representative role, and to cover some incidental expenses incurred by them.

All county councillors are entitled are entitled to receive certain allowances each year. These include a basic allowance, as well as those which cover travel, subsistence and special responsibilities, such as being a chairman of a committee. The allowances paid to each county councillor for 2008/09 and 2009/10 are available.

All district councillors are entitled to certain allowances each year. These include a basic allowance, as well as those which cover travel, subsistence and special responsibilities, such as being a chair of a committee.

Councillors are entitled to receive allowances and expenses under the Council's Members' Allowances Scheme, in accordance with the recommendations of an Independent Remuneration Panel which also advises Christchurch Borough Council and East Dorset District Council.

All district councillors are entitled to certain allowances each year. These include a basic allowance, as well as those which cover travel, subsistence and special responsibilities, such as being a chair of a committee.