Discounts and Exemptions

In some cases, certain individuals and properties are eligible for discounts or exemptions from council tax.

You may be able to get help to pay your council tax if you:

• receive Income Support
• receive Jobseeker’s Allowance
• receive tax credits
• are on a low income 

Find out more about on the Council Tax and Housing Benefit web page. There's also more information about council tax benefits on the Department for Work and Pensions website www.dwp.gov.uk

Most common discounts and exemptions

Disability Discount – if a member of your household is disabled, and any room in your home has been adapted for a disabled person, your bill could be reduced.

Carer Discount – as a carer, you may be entitled to a council tax discount or exemption.

Older Person's Discount – there is a £100 annual council tax discount for residents where the taxpayer, or their partner, was 65 or over on 1 April 2011.

Property Exemptions and Discounts – there are exemptions and discounts for some properties (both occupied and unoccupied).

Single Person's Discount – if you’re the only person over 18 living in your home, you should receive a 25% ‘single person’ discount.

Student Discount – if you are a full time student, apprentice or youth training trainee you may be entitled to a reduction on your council tax.

Other Discounts

• people living in hospital or care homes
• people who are mentally impaired
• people staying in certain hostels or night shelters
• 18 and 19-year-olds who are at, or have just left, school or college
• members of visiting forces
• members of religious communities
• people in prison, except those in prison for not paying their council tax or a fine.

Claiming Your Discount

To claim any of the above, you will need to supply supporting documentary evidence, giving the dates for the claim and contact details such as an email address or contact telephone number. In all contact please quote your council tax account number.

T: 020 7527 2633
A: Council Tax, PO Box 34750, London N7 9WF

You can also pick up a benefit claim form from your local area housing office or ask for one to be sent to you by telephoning 020 7527 4990.

Old Street Area Housing Office
41- 47 Old Street, London EC1V 9HX

Holland Walk Area Housing Office
85- 88 Holland Walk, London N19 3XS

Highbury House Area Housing Office
East and West Areas
5 Highbury Crescent, London N5 1RN
T: 020 7527 5300
F: 020 7527 5301
Message line: 020 7527 7272