Millions of people are unknowingly missing out on hundreds of pounds in council tax discounts. Martin Lewis explains the different discounts available, including the 25% single-person discount applicable even if you have children at home. He also discusses other discounts for specific circumstances, such as households with individuals receiving certain benefits or those with a person with an SMI and a carer.
Hundreds of people are missing out on council tax discounts ranging from 25% to 100% off their bills, depending on their circumstances. One of these discounts is available to single people living alone, even if they have a child at home. Martin Lewis previously explained the rules on his ITV show, the Martin Lewis Money Show Live. He highlighted the 25% single-person discount, which can be claimed even if there are other people living in the house, such as students or carers.
Under council tax rules, only two or more adults living together are considered a full household, meaning a single parent with a child or a single person living with students or carers could still be eligible for the discount. Lewis explained that other discounts are available, such as a 50% reduction for households with one person receiving a Severe Mental Impairment (SMI) and another person being a carer. An all-discounted household, for example, comprising only students, qualifies for a 100% discount. Additional reductions include up to 100% for those on low incomes, receiving pension credit, or certain benefits. However, these vary by council. Residents need to apply for discounts through their local council, separate from Universal Credit applications.Lewis encouraged viewers to check their eligibility for council tax discounts on the government website. He shared an example of a viewer whose 96-year-old mother with mixed Alzheimers and vascular dementia received a £3,247.41 refund after claiming the council tax disregard. While backdating payments varies by council, Lewis emphasized the importance of applying for discounts to potentially save hundreds or even thousands of pounds annually. He also addressed viewers questioning the 25% discount for single adults, stating that it's a legal requirement based on council tax being applied per house rather than per person.
Council Tax Discounts Martin Lewis Single Person Benefits Financial Advice
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