Some UK households could reduce their council tax bill by up to £570 per year. Age UK outlines key groups who may qualify, urging eligible residents to apply.
Council tax bills are determined based on property value and number of adult residents, but a range of exemptions could see thousands across the UK claim significant savings.
As bills rise, organisations such as Age UK are encouraging people to check their eligibility and apply through their local council.
Single-Person Households Entitled to 25% Discount
Council tax in the UK is typically calculated on the assumption that at least two qualifying adults reside in a property. Where only one adult is present, residents are usually eligible for a 25% discount, irrespective of income level. With the average band D council tax currently at £2,280, this could result in savings of up to £570 annually.
According to Age UK, the discount can also apply in households where other occupants are classified as disregarded persons. These include :
- Certain live-in carers
- Student nurses
- Full-time students
- Diplomats
- People under 25 who are getting funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency
- Children under 18
- Foreign language assistants registered with the British Council
- People with severe mental impairments
- Some apprentices or trainees
- 18 or 19 year olds in full-time education
People who believe they are eligible must apply for the discount directly through their local authority, using the Gov.uk council tax checker to find the relevant application process. Age UK has emphasised the importance of proactively claiming these entitlements, as they are not usually applied automatically.
Exemptions for Carers, Vulnerable Individuals and Low-Income Households
Beyond single-person discounts, several other groups may qualify for full or partial council tax relief. Live-in carers who provide at least 35 hours of care per week to someone not their partner or underage child may be entitled to a reduction. According to Gov.uk, additional exemptions apply to those with severe mental impairments and some diplomatic personnel.
Individuals receiving benefits or on a low income could see their council tax bill reduced by up to 100%, depending on the policies of their local council. Each authority sets its own criteria, so support levels vary across regions.
In cases where a property has been modified for a disabled resident, or where local infrastructure changes have altered the value of a home, residents may also request a reassessment of their tax band through the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).
Age UK encourages households experiencing such changes to contact the VOA directly to evaluate whether a lower band might be more appropriate.
