Council tax reduction for disabilities

Who qualifies for a reduction?

Council Tax reductions in respect of properties where disabled people live were introduced by the Council Tax (Reductions for Disabilities) Regulations 1992 under powers contained in the Local Government Finances Act 1992.

The regulations require that an application must be submitted by an 'eligible person', or someone on their behalf, in respect of certain prescribed facilities within the property which are required for meeting the needs of the 'qualifying individual.'

An 'eligible person' is the liable party for council tax purposes and the definition of 'qualifying individual' is "a person who is substantially and permanently disabled (whether by illness, congenital deformity or otherwise)".

The criteria to qualify for this reduction is as follows:

1. The property must consist of a room which Is not a bathroom, a kitchen or a lavatory and which is predominantly used (whether for providing therapy or otherwise) by and is required for meeting the needs of the qualifying individual resident in the property.

Or

2. A bathroom or kitchen which is not the only bathroom or kitchen within the property and which is required for meeting the needs of any qualifying individual resident in the property.

Or

3. The property has sufficient floor space to permit the use of a wheelchair required for meeting the needs of any qualifying individual resident in the property. However, a wheelchair will not be considered as being required for meeting an individual's needs if that person does not need to use it indoors.

It will help in the consideration of this application if the applicant can supply a note from a doctor, or other qualified professional, such as an occupational therapist or social worker, confirming that the disabled resident needs the extra space or room as stated overleaf. If, for any reason, you are unable to obtain such confirmation easily, then do not delay your application if you believe you are eligible for a reduction. However, the Council may subsequently need to ask for evidence in support of your application.

If you think you could qualify, please telephone Council Tax for an application form.