Council Tax Reduction scheme explained
The Council Tax Reduction Scheme for working age households is an income banded scheme.
In summary:
- The discount is based on the total weekly income of the applicant, and their partner, if they have one;
- The number of dependent children is limited to two in the calculation;
- Deductions are not made for non-dependents;
- Carers Allowance, the support component of Employment and Support Allowance and the housing element of Universal Credit are disregarded in the calculation of income;
- There is a standard earnings disregard;
- A further deduction from unearned income is allowed where a member of the household is disabled and in receipt of certain disability benefits;
- Changes to Council Tax Reduction take effect from the day they occur;
- Council Tax Reduction may be backdated to the beginning of the financial year;
The Council Tax Reduction Scheme for pension age households is determined by Central Government. To find out more about Council Tax Reduction for pensioners, please contact the Benefits & Welfare section.
Council Tax payers who experience financial hardship can apply online for assistance from the Exceptional Hardship Fund.