People across the UK could receive a significant discount or even a complete exemption on their council tax bill depending on their living situation.
Those on low incomes, student households, and individuals with disabilities or caring responsibilities might be unaware that they don’t need to pay full price on their council tax bill. In England alone, over 2.5 million people receive a discount on their council tax, reports the Daily Record.
There are a wide number of circumstances that could help you to claim a Council Tax Reduction. Full details on eligiblity can be found on GOV.UK.
Council tax exemptions
You could be exempt from paying council tax if:
- You live in a care home or hospital
- You have a severe mental impairment (e.g. dementia) – if you only live with someone who has dementia, then you’ll be treated as a sole occupant as they will be disregarded, but you won’t both be exempt
- Your home is unoccupied and empty (up to six months) – for example, if you’ve gone into hospital
- You are a full-time student
Exemptions and discounts may vary depending on your local authoritiy’s rules. You might want to get in touch with your local authority to check your eligibility and learn how to apply for an exemption, details of which can be found on GOV.UK.
Council tax discounts
There are certain situations where you may be entitled to a reduction on your Council Tax, with the amount of discount varying based on your circumstances.
If you live with someone under 18 or a student
If you’re living with someone under 18 or a student, Council Tax isn’t calculated for anyone aged under 18, full-time students, student nurses, and some apprentices or trainees.
If you are a carer
If you’re a carer, those who care for someone in the household for at least 35 hours per week and meet additional criteria may be disregarded for Council Tax purposes, contact your local authority for their eligibility criteria. However, this doesn’t apply if the person receiving care is the partner of the carer, or is the carer’s child aged under 18.
Apply for council tax reduction
Applying for a council tax reduction could be an option if you’re on a low income or receiving certain benefits. You can claim council tax support whether you own or rent your home, and regardless of your employment status. Each local council runs its own council tax support scheme, so the level of assistance varies nationwide.
The support you receive depends on several factors, including the benefits you receive, your age, income, savings, who you live with, and how much council tax you pay. If you’re receiving a disability or carers benefit, you may be eligible for additional council tax support.
Those receiving the Guarantee Credit Part of Pension Credit might even have their council tax fully covered. Even without this, if you’re on a low income and have less than £16,000 in savings, you could still receive some help.