Do I qualify for a discount?
In some circumstances, you may qualify for a discount and won't have to pay your full Council Tax charge.
For other people, their circumstances may mean they get an exemption and will not have to pay at all.
There are specific conditions for each discount and exemption.
We will investigate any applications that we believe contain false details.
Discounts
Single person discount
If you are the only adult living in the property, you may be eligible for a 25 per cent discount.
Conditions apply and false details can lead to prosecution.
Apply for a Single Person Discount
Severely mentally impaired (SMI) discount
People who are severely mentally impaired can apply for an SMI discount.
Students
If all the adult occupants in a household are full-time students or student nurses, you do not have to pay Council Tax.
If all members of the household are students, apart from one person, you may be entitled to a 25 per cent discount. Find out more about student discounts.
Disabled persons
If you, or someone who lives with you, has a disability that needs a specialised area in the home such as:
- an extra bathroom
- changes to the kitchen
- other specifically adapted room(s)
- home adaptations to use a wheelchair indoors
You may qualify for a reduction in your council tax bill.
If you are entitled, your bill will be reduced to the amount due for a property in the next valuation band down.
For example, if your home is in valuation band "D" your bill will be reduced to the amount for a band "C" property.
If your home is already in the lowest band, a reduction that is equals to one ninth of your council tax bill will apply.
To see if you qualify, please use the Council Tax disabled band reduction form.
Carers
If you provide voluntary care to someone you live with, you could qualify for a Council Tax disregard or discount.
Annexes
A discount of 50 per cent is available for annexes that are occupied by a family member.
To find out if you qualify or to start an application, please email us.
Low income households
If you are struggling to pay your bills, you may be eligible for Council Tax benefits.
Find out more and how to apply.
Exemptions
These groups are not required to pay any Council Tax:
- most students (find out more about students and council tax exemptions)
- patients living in hospital
- people who are being looked after in care homes
- people staying in certain hostels or night shelters
- 18 and 19-year-olds who are at, or have just left school
- care workers working for low pay, usually for charities
- people caring for someone with a disability who is not a spouse, partner or child under 18
- members of visiting forces and certain international institutions
- members of religious communities such as monks, nuns or imams
- people in prison (except those in prison for non-payment of Council Tax or a fine)