Frequently asked questions
Am I entitled to a Council Tax discount?
If you live alone you are entitled to a 25% single person discount. Full-time students living with a partner (who is not a student) are entitled to a 25% student discount. Please contact us for more details.
Who is exempt from Council Tax?
Full-time students living alone, under-18 year olds, members of foreign armed forces and people with severe mental impairment do not pay Council Tax.
When would a property be exempt from Council Tax?
Unoccupied and unfurnished properties can be exempt for a maximum of 6 months. Properties used only for religious purposes are usually exempt.
You may be entitled to an exemption if your property is in need of major structural repairs or improvements.
What is a second adult reduction?
If there is someone living in your home with you, who you do not receive child benefit for and who is on a low income, you may be eligible for a 25% second adult discount on your Council Tax.
I have moved to a new address but not yet sold my old property, can I apply for a Council Tax discount/exemption?
Yes. If your old property is unfurnished you may be able to claim an exemption for up to 6 months from the date you move out. After 6 months you will have to pay a percentage of the Council Tax. If your old property is furnished you may be entitled to a discount, until the property is sold or rented out.
Please be aware that unoccupied reductions only apply for a maximum of 12 months from the date of last occupation, after which an unoccupied additional levy charge may apply.
When I send in the evidence (for Council Tax discounts, etc), is a copy ok or do you need original documents?
Copies can be accepted. If you send original documents they will be returned to you.
Can a Council Tax discount / exemption be backdated?
Yes, as long as you have the necessary proof.
What exemptions can be claimed on Council Tax when there has been a bereavement?
A full exemption can be claimed if the owner of the property has passed away and the property is unoccupied, and if the executor of the estate is awaiting a grant of confirmation to allow them to take control of the estate.
There is a 6 months maximum exemption once the executor has been confirmed.
How do I report someone claiming financial help they are not entitled to?
If you know someone is getting financial help they are not entitled to, for example housing benefit, council tax reduction etc, use our Fraud page to report it.