Those claiming certain benefits could receive a significant council tax discount (Image: Getty Images)
UK residents could be eligible for a significant discount or even a complete exemption on their council tax bill, depending on their living situation. Those with low incomes, student households, and individuals with disabilities or caring responsibilities may not realise that they don’t have to pay the full amount of their council tax bill.
In England alone, over 2.5 million people receive a discount on their council tax, according to the There are numerous circumstances that could qualify you for a Council Tax Reduction, with full eligibility details available on
Council Tax exemptions
Council Tax exemptions could apply if you live in a care home or hospital, have a severe mental impairment such as 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 for up to six months (for example, if you’ve gone into hospital), or if you are a full-time student. Exemptions and discounts can vary based on your local authority’s rules.
It might be beneficial to contact your local authority to check your eligibility and learn how to apply for an exemption, with details available on
Council tax discounts
There are also 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 reside 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. For carers, those who provide care for someone in the household for at least 35 hours per week and meet additional criteria may be disregarded for Council Tax purposes.
If you are a carer
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. Applying for a Council Tax Reduction could be an option if you’re on a low income or receiving certain benefits.
Apply for Council Tax Reduction
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.
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.