Council tax discount could see households slash bill by up to 100% | Personal Finance | Finance

Households across the UK could be eligible for a 100 per cent council tax rebate, without even realising it and are being urged to check their eligibility. 

The levy applies to a vast majority of adults over 18, with standard rates based on two or more adults who are sharing a property together although some groups can see complete exemption. A number of households in the UK could receive all of their money back from their council tax bill if they fall into one of these three categories. 

Those eligible include:

Students

While students are one of the groups of people eligible for the 100% exemption, there is a specific set of rules needed to fall into this category. It’s worth noting, households made up entirely of full-time students do not pay any form of council tax.

According to the gov.uk website, in order to qualify as a student in this case, a course must last at least 12 months and include over 21 hours of weekly study. Meanwhile, those under 20 and studying A levels have a different set of rules – a course must be at least three months with 12 hours of weekly study.

If a household contains both a mix of students and non-students, they do still have to pay council tax, although some form of reduction may apply. If you are a student who qualifies and have still received a council tax bill, you are advised to contact your local council.

Mentally Impaired

Residents suffering with a severe mental impairment are also qualified to have total exemption. A GP or medical professional must be able to certify this impairment, providing proof of the benefit entitlement.

If these people live alone or with others who are severely mentally impaired or living with full-time students, the exemption also applies to them. A full exemption applies if these residents live alone or if they happen to live with others that also classify as severely mentally impaired or even full-time students.

Low-income households

Those experiencing financial hardship can potentially qualify for some council tax support, according to the gov.uk website. It states: “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 are working.”

However, eligibility rules are different across the country, as each lcoal authority has an indivual scheme in palce. They asses their decison based on income, savings, pensions and each household’s circumstances before deciding if support can be offered.

There are some individuals which fall into a “disregarded” category when councils come to caluclate how much tax each house should pay. This means they do not count towards the number of adults in a household, which often triggers some sort of discount. 

Disregraded people

Some people are classed as “disregarded” when councils calculate council tax – meaning they don’t count towards the number of adults in a household. This can reduce the bill or trigger a discount.

Those who qualify include:

• People under 18
• Apprentices on approved schemes
• Full-time student nurses
• Foreign language assistants registered with the British Council
• Live-in carers looking after someone who isn’t their partner, spouse or child under 18
• Diplomats
• Young people under 25 receiving funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency