MSE says people could save “£100s or even £1,000s” on council tax | Personal Finance | Finance

Household bills are rising for many people, with council tax among those increasing across various parts of the UK. However, a significant number of people may be unaware that they may be eligible for a reduction in their council tax. Students, in particular, are amongst those who may qualify.

To assist, MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has shared how some groups of people can benefit, allowing them to keep more cash in their pockets – or bank accounts. It even notes that people could save “£100s or even £1,000s each year.”

Council tax discounts are not automatic

While the level of financial support, depends on your local authority and personal circumstances, it is crucial to note that these reductions are not applied automatically. You have to submit an application to receive them and wait for approval.

MSE says: “In some cases, you might even be able to backdate your claim, although each council sets its own rules. If backdating is allowed, you’ll usually need to explain why you didn’t apply earlier.”

How can I claim a student discount on my council tax bill?

It is worth checking with your local authority to establish what support you may be entitled to, as it can differ depending on the area. In most cases, however, a student discount is available.

MSE says: “A full-time student is disregarded from paying Council Tax for the duration of their course – for an example, an undergraduate at university would be disregarded from the day their course begins until the day it formally ends.

“In other words, a student is liable to pay Council Tax outside of their course. So if you’re living in an all-student house, this means you should get a Council Tax bill if you continue to live there after your course ends.

“Many undergraduate courses end in early June, so if the tenancy on your house runs until August, that means there are two months where you’ll pay Council Tax. Similarly, if you move into your student house before your course actually starts, there will likely be some Council Tax to pay.”

How can I claim a council tax discount?

Simply head to your local council’s website and look out for their discount and exemptions page. You can also enter your postcode via the GOV.UK website here.

For example, City of London council note that students can get a reduced payment. It says: “If you are a student or there is a student living in your home, you may be entitled to a council tax discount (25%, if all but one resident is disregarded) or a full exemption.”

There are three types of students:

• full time university or college students studying on a course for at least 21 hours a week for 24 weeks in the year, for at least one academic or calendar year
• students under 20 years of age studying on a course for at least 12 hours a week for at least three months, that is not higher education
• foreign language assistants appointed at a school or college in Great Britain who are registered with the British Council(external link)

It adds: “If you believe you should be receiving a council tax student discount or exemption, but it is not showing on your bill, complete the council tax incoming occupier form listing all residents living at the property.

“For each full time student we require a council tax student certificate covering the full period of your claim. Council tax student certificates can be obtained from your university or college.”