Council tax reduction scheme

Local councils have to design and run their own schemes for working age people. This scheme does not apply to people who have reached state pension credit age. 

We calculate entitlement to council tax reduction based on an income banded system.

We compare how much income you and your partner have, to a range of income bands. Then a percentage reduction is applied to your council tax charge to decide your reduction.

From April 2023 most households can get up to a maximum of 80% of their yearly council tax charge.

Claimants who fall into one of the following will continue to get up to a maximum of 100% of their council tax bill.

Protected groups

  • Lone parents with a child under five years of age
  • Those in receipt of a disability benefit, Carer’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance
  • Those in receipt of Universal Credit which includes one of the following elements: limited capability for work, limited capability for work related activity, disabled child or carer element
  • Care leavers under the age of 25
  • Those in receipt of an Armed Forces Independence Payment
  • Carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or have an underlying entitlement to it.

You will need to apply again if your claim for council tax reduction has ended, and your income has reduced.

View the council tax reduction scheme regulations

Council tax reduction for pension age applicants is a national scheme. The rules are set by Parliament. 

Apply for council tax reduction