Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions
What Council Tax discounts and exemptions are available?
There are a number of reasons you might qualify for a discount on your Council Ta. Some of the most common are; being the only qualifying adult living in your property, which qualifies you for a 25% discount on your annual bill, or if everyone in your house is a full-time student, in which case your property is exempt from paying tax. Diplomats, live-in carers and certain other professions and individuals are 'disregarded' from Council Tax registrations - if all but one person in the property is 'disregarded' you qualify for a 25% discount, if everyone living in the property is 'disregarded' you'll receive a 50% discount. You can see the complete laws regarding discounts and exemptions here.
How do I claim a Council Tax discount?
You will still need to be registered for Council Tax, ever if you are completely exempt. Otherwise, your property will be considered empty and you won't have access to vital local services.
When you receive your first bill you should immediately set up an online account with your local authority as directed. Once this account has been set up you will have the option to register as qualifying for a discount or exempt and upload supporting documents. These will include the tenancy agreement or proof of ownership, as well as relevant evidence such as proof of enrollment for student exemption.
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