Certain groups of people can get either a full or partial discount on this annual bill
Several groups could be eligible for a full 100 per cent reduction on their council tax bill. Government regulations stipulate that certain people are exempt from the total cost, while others may receive a partial discount.
Council tax is an annual charge paid to your local council. The sum is set by your council and contributes to the funding of local services.
Your council tax bill will depend on both your location and the value of your property. Generally, if you’re 18 or over, you’re required to pay council tax.
Full council tax is calculated based on at least two adults living in a home. Couples cohabiting are jointly responsible for paying the bill.
However, as reported by the Liverpool Echo, not everyone is obliged to contribute towards council tax. For example, some households may qualify for a council tax reduction, potentially receiving a discount of up to 100 per cent.
Others may also receive a 100 per cent reduction if they are classified as severely mentally impaired and meet other criteria. Additionally, households where every member is a full-time student are not required to pay at all.
Students
GOV.UK clarifies that households where everyone is a full-time student are exempt from paying council tax. If you receive a bill, you can apply for an exemption.
To be considered a full-time student, your course must:
- Last at least one year
- Involve at least 21 hours of study per week
If you’re studying for a qualification up to A-level and you’re under 20, your course must last at least three months and involve a minimum of 12 hours study per week. However, it’s crucial to note that if there’s someone in your household who’s not a full-time student, you’ll receive a council tax bill, but your household might still be eligible for a discount.
Severe mental impairment
If you or someone you live with is severely mentally impaired, you might qualify for a discount on your council tax bill. To apply, you’ll need a certificate from a medical professional, such as your GP, confirming the severe mental impairment and proof of eligibility for certain benefits – check with your local council.
If you’re classified as severely mentally impaired, you’ll receive a 100 per cent discount if you live alone or if any other adults in your household are either also severely mentally impaired or are full-time students.
There will be a 50 per cent discount on the council tax bill if everyone else in your household is “disregarded”.
Council tax reduction
If you’re on a low income, you can apply to your local council for a council tax reduction (sometimes referred to as council tax support).
According to GOV.UK : “You could be eligible if you’re on a low income or claim benefits. Your bill could be reduced by up to 100 per cent. You can apply if you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working.”
What you receive depends on:
- Where you live – each council runs its own scheme
- Your circumstances (for example income, number of children, benefits, residency status)
- Your household income – this includes savings, pensions and your partner’s income
- If your children live with you
- If other adults live with you
Whether your children live with you and if other adults reside with you are also taken into account. To see if you qualify, visit the Government website here.
Who is disregarded
Some people, such as students, are classed as “disregarded” from council tax. Other people who are disregarded from council tax include those who are:
- Under 18 years old
- On certain apprentice schemes
- Under 25 years old and get funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency
- A student nurse
- A foreign language assistant registered with the British Council
- A live-in carer for someone who is not your partner, spouse, or child under 18
- A diplomat
You need to apply for a council tax discount or an exemption, even if you’re disregarded.