Council tax benefit is usually applied for at the same time as housing benefit and it's used to pay your council tax bill.
How much you will save will depend on your own situation… We take a look in more detail with our easy-to-follow guide.
Can I claim?
You can claim council tax benefit if you pay council tax but you’re on a low income or no income at all and you have savings below £16,000. You may apply whether you rent or own your home, or if you live rent-free.
How much will I get?
To work out your Council Tax Benefit, your council will look at how much money you and your partner have coming in, including earnings, benefits and tax credits. They will also take into account savings. They look at lots of things when judging your case, including your age, family size, disabilities and whether anyone living with you can afford to help you.
The most Council Tax Benefit you can get is 100% of your annual bill.
If you live with a flatmate or similar then you will receive a ‘second adult rebate’…
- Rebate for second adults on Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or Pension Credit 25%
- Second adult's weekly income less than £180 15%
- Second adult's gross weekly income between £180 - £234 7.5%
How is it paid?
Council Tax Benefit isn’t paid to you directly, it’s instead automatically removed from your council tax bill.
How do I apply?
Council tax benefit is usually applied for at the same time as your housing benefit and you need to contact your local council to apply. You can find out this information by looking at your council tax bill.
Don't forget your other benefits!
If you able to get council tax benefit- or even if you're not - there are lots of other benefits you should look into as well...
Jobseekers allowance - to help pay for day-to-day living.
Housing benefit - Help with the rent
Child benefit - if you have kids, make sure you're getting child benefit.
Other unemployment benefits - our guide to everything you need to know if you're unemployed.
