Are you getting what you’re entitled to?
If you’re on a low income you may be entitled to Housing or Council Tax Benefit.
Council Tax Benefit reduces your Council Tax bill and is based on your household income and circumstances. Housing Benefit is a payment made by the Council to people finding it hard to pay their rent, either to a Housing Association or to a private landlord.
If you think you might be eligible for Council Tax or Housing Benefit, you can use our online benefits calculator or you can contact us directly for advice.
The best way to make a claim for Housing or Council tax Benefit is to visit one of out local Council Connect Offices.
See bottom of page for contact details. Further information is online under Advice & Benefits > Benefits.
Council Tax…are you paying more than you should?
If you don’t qualify for Council Tax Benefit, there are still a number of ways you might be able to reduce your bill:
- You might be eligible for a Second Adult Rebate of up to 25% which is awarded when a second adult living in your home, other than your partner, is on a low income. However it is not available if that person pays you rent to live in your home.
- If you live alone your Council Tax bill may be reduced by 25%.
- If you, or someone who lives with you, has a disability and requires extra space in your property for their needs you may be entitled to a reduced bill.
- Some properties may be exempt from Council Tax, or you may be entitled to a discount. Exemptions include properties occupied only by:
- Full time students;
- Members of visiting Forces;
- Persons under 18;
- Persons who are severely mentally impaired;
- Elderly or disabled relatives aged over 65 who occupy a 'granny annex'.
If you are finding it difficult to pay your Council Tax bill, it is important that you contact the Council as soon as possible to find out if you are eligible for Council Tax Benefit or any of the discounts or exemptions listed above.
Further information is online under Advice & Benefits > Council Tax > Exemptions & Discounts.
Other state benefits & support
DirectGov's online benefits adviser can help you find out which other benefits and tax credits you and your family may be entitled to.
Business Rate relief
Business Rate relief is available in certain cases on non-domestic property. Further information is in the Business Rates section.
Useful contacts
- Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit - Call 01225 477777 during office hours to speak to a Benefits officer or visit one of our offices.
- Other welfare benefits are available through other agencies, including: