Who qualifies for a council tax discount?

New research reveals that up to 100,000 people could be missing out on council tax discounts – simply because they don’t know they are eligible. Carers UK is campaigning to make carers aware of the money-saving discount they might receive if they are caring for an ill, older or disabled loved one. The charity is working with the website Money Saving Expert to raise awareness and to interpret the rules surrounding the discount which can be difficult to understand. Council tax reduction is a scheme which helps people on low incomes. Council tax bills are generally based on the assumption that at least two adults live in the property. However, if one person (or no-one) lives in the property, a discount can be applied. Carers might be ‘disregarded’ (treated as not living in the property) and so be entitled to a discount. To qualify, carers must care for at least 35 hours a week and not be the spouse or partner of the person they care for, so a family member, such as a daughter or son, will qualify. You may be able to get council tax reduction under the disability reduction scheme if anyone living at the property is substantially and permanently disabled. In addition, one of the following must be met: ■ There is an additional bathroom or kitchen for the disabled person

■ There is a room specifically needed by the disabled person

■ There is enough space for wheelchairs A disability reduction would mean that the council tax bill would be reduced to the amount payable for a home in the valuation band below yours. There is no general test of who is considered disabled, however if a person is registered as disabled with their local council, this should be enough to satisfy the condition. To be disregarded on the grounds of being ‘severely mentally impaired’ the person will need to meet several conditions, including receiving certain benefits. You do not have to claim Carer’s allowance to qualify to be ‘disregarded’ and your income and savings will not affect your eligibility. People who leave heir home to move into residential care are exempt from council tax but during temporary hospital stays, your council tax must be paid.