Campaigns & issues

Council Tax Benefit:
One less bill to worry about

Around 2.2 million pensioner households are missing out on Council Tax Benefit that could reduce their average council tax bill by £645 a year. Whether you own your own home or you pay rent‚ you should find out if you qualify so you have one less bill to worry about.

Would I qualify?

• You normally need to have no more than £16‚000 in savings unless you get Guarantee Credit (page 6); in which case‚ there is no savings limit and your council tax could be fully covered by the benefit

Other ways to reduce your council tax bill:

• If you live alone you get a 25% discount. Other discounts exist for people who are severely mentally impaired and for some carers
• The Disability Reduction Scheme can reduce your bill if you are disabled and your home has features that support you to live there; for example‚ wheelchair space or an extra bathroom or kitchen specifically for your use
•  You may not have to pay at all if your house is empty (for example‚ you have left to go to hospital or a care home)

You can get a claim form by phoning the Housing and Council Tax Benefit section of your local council or by visiting the Department for Work and Pensions website.

If you are claiming Pension Credit‚ you can claim Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit in one call.

Age Concern can help and advise you. Contact your local Age Concern today.