Council Tax: Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are several types of discounts and benefits:-

• Discounts - 25% for single adult occupiers and 10% for empty properties (50% prior to 1st April 2004).
• Furnished properties which are not the sole or main residence of anyone will be charged at 90% (i.e. a 10% discount). There are some exceptions to this rule, the main one being if you have to live at a particular property elsewhere as a condition of your employment for the better performance of your duties. An example might be a pub landlord. The house left empty in this Borough would only be charged at 50%
• Empty and unfurnished properties will also be charged at 90% once the initial 6 month exemption is exhausted.
• Benefits (Rebates) - for people on low income. Just because you might be working doesn't mean that you are not entitled to some help with your payments.
• Disabled Relief - If a physically Disabled person is resident and the property has a facility which is of major importance to their well being then you could get a reduction equivalent to a reduction of 1 Council Tax Band (e.g from band D to band C). This facility could be an extra bathroom / kitchen or sufficient space for the use of a wheelchair indoors.
• Exemptions - some properties will not be liable for any Council Tax and are listed in full in the Council Tax Leaflet sent with all annual and new Council Tax Bills.
• New Local Exemption from 1st April 2004 - There is 100% Exemption for up to 12 months for any dwelling which has been rendered uninhabitable as a result of a natural disaster and which requires substantial building or remedial works to make it habitable again.