Council tax bills are poised to surge by as much as 9% in some regions in a matter of days.
On average, council tax is set to increase by 5% for the third consecutive year in most areas. This implies that the average annual band D bill will amount to £2,230 – a rise of £109.
Out of 384 councils, 293 have chosen to hike the mandatory tax by 4.99% without necessitating a local referendum, while 56 have approached the maximum limit. A handful of councils have been permitted to raise their tax significantly above the limit.
Bradford stands out with a potential increase of up to 10%, while the London Borough of Newham is witnessing a 9% rise, matched by another 9% increase in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. Although many residents will feel the financial pinch from these increases on April 1, some may qualify for a substantial discount or even a full exemption on their council tax bill, depending on their circumstances.
Low-income households, students, and individuals with disabilities or caring responsibilities may not be aware that they are not obliged to pay the full amount of their council tax bill. In England alone, over 2.5 million people receive a discount on their council tax, as reported by the Daily Record.
Council tax exemptions
Under certain conditions, you might be exempt from paying council tax. Exemptions and discounts can vary based on your local authority’s rules.
It could be advantageous to reach out to your local council to confirm your eligibility and understand how to apply for an exemption.
Council tax reductions
Under certain circumstances, you may qualify for a council tax discount. The amount of this reduction can vary depending on your specific situation.
Living with someone under 18 or a student
If you share your home with someone under 18 or a student, council tax isn’t calculated for individuals aged under 18, full-time students, student nurses, and some apprentices or trainees.
Being a carer
As a carer, if you provide care for someone in your household for at least 35 hours per week and meet additional criteria, you could be disregarded for council tax purposes. However, this doesn’t apply if the person receiving care is the carer’s partner or a child under 18 of the carer.
If you’re on a low income or claiming certain benefits, you might want to consider applying for a council tax Reduction. This support is available whether you own or rent your home, and regardless of your employment status.
How to apply for a council tax Reduction
Each local council runs its own council tax support scheme, so the level of assistance can differ across the country.
The support you receive depends on several factors, including the benefits you receive, your age, income, savings, who you live with, and how much council tax you pay. If you’re receiving a disability or carers benefit, you may be eligible for additional council tax support.
Individuals who are recipients of the Guarantee Credit Part of Pension Credit may even have their council tax entirely paid for. Furthermore, even without this benefit, if your income is low and your savings are less than £16,000, you could still be eligible for some assistance.
Complete information regarding eligibility can be accessed on GOV.UK.
