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Council Tax reductions

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UK-wide, up to 2.1 million pensioner households are missing out on Council Tax Benefit that could cut their council tax bill. Whether you own your own home or you pay rent‚ you should find out if you are eligible so you have one less bill to worry about.

Can I claim it?

You normally need to have less than £16‚000 in savings. However‚ if you get Guarantee Credit (see Pension Credit) there is no savings limit and your council tax could be fully covered by the benefit.

If you have a partner, your Council Tax Benefit will be worked out on your joint income and savings and you should make a joint application. A partner includes a husband, wife, civil partner or someone you live with as if you are married or civil partners.

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 your home has special features to enable a disabled person to live in it, for example‚ wheelchair space or an extra bathroom, kitchen or other room specifically for their use. See our Home & Care section for more information about adapting your home.

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 for Council Tax Benefit by phoning the Housing and Council Tax Benefit section of your local council or by visiting the Department for Work and Pensions website (see ‘Useful website’) If you are claiming Pension Credit‚ you can claim Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit in one call. Contact your local council to apply for discounts or the Disability Reduction Scheme.

opens link in new window FS21w Council Tax in Wales - November 2011 (PDF 243KB)


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Age UK Advice:
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Useful information to download

  • A factsheet that outlines the most important aspects of the Council Tax system in Wales.
  • A factsheet with information on both Housing and Council Tax benefit.
  • opens link in new window  FS17 Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit - April 2011 (PDF 267KB)
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Useful website

  • The Department for Work and Pensions is responsible for a range of benefits and services for pensioners and people planning pensions.


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