Several categories of individuals may qualify for a complete exemption from their council tax bill. As per government guidelines, specific residents are not liable for the total amount, while others could receive a partial reduction.
Council tax, an annual payment to your local council, is determined by the council and aids in supporting local services.
The amount on your council tax bill is contingent on your residential location and property value. Typically, adults aged 18 and above are responsible for council tax payments.
Full council tax is calculated based on a minimum of two adults residing in a household, with couples jointly accountable for settling the bill.
Nonetheless, not all individuals are required to contribute to council tax. Some households may qualify for a council tax discount, potentially leading to a full 100% reduction.
Others may also be eligible for a complete exemption if classified as severely mentally impaired and meeting specific criteria. Furthermore, households where all members are full-time students are exempt from payment.
Households where every resident is a full-time student are not obligated to pay council tax, as specified by GOV.UK. If issued a bill, one can apply for an exemption.
To qualify as a full-time student, the course must meet certain criteria:
– Individuals under 20 studying up to A-level must have a course lasting a minimum of three months, involving at least 12 hours of study per week. However, if a non-student resides in the household, a council tax bill may still be issued, with potential eligibility for a discount.
Individuals or cohabitants who are severely mentally impaired may apply for a council tax discount. The following criteria must be met:
– A 100% discount is granted under specific conditions, while a 50% discount applies if others in the household are “disregarded.”
Low-income individuals can request council tax reduction or support from the local council. Eligibility criteria include low income, benefit claims, and employment status.
Eligibility for council tax discounts or exemptions varies based on factors such as geographical location, council schemes, personal circumstances, income, children, benefits, and residency status.
Household income, including savings, pensions, partner’s income, child residency, and other adults in the household, is considered. For eligibility verification, the Government website can be accessed here.
Certain individuals, like students, are considered “disregarded” for council tax purposes. Others in this category include:
Even if disregarded, application for a council tax discount or exemption is necessary.