Council Tax Reduction Eligibility Checker
How it works
Council Tax Reduction is means-tested help with your Council Tax bill. Pension-age claimants follow a national framework with up to 100% reduction. Working-age schemes are set by each local council — most cap support at 75–90%.
It's separate from Council Tax discounts (single occupier 25%, all-student 100%, severe mental impairment 100%) and from challenges to your Council Tax band.
Worked example
Margaret is 70, lives alone, on State Pension only (£221/week).
- 25% single-occupier discount applied
- Likely 100% CTR on the remaining 75%
- Result: £0 Council Tax
Who should use this
- •People on low income or means-tested benefits
- •Pensioners struggling with Council Tax
- •Single adults (combine CTR with the 25% discount)
- •Students and carers (separate exemptions)
Common mistakes
- ×Not applying because you assume you earn too much
- ×Forgetting to apply the single-occupier discount separately
- ×Missing backdating — most councils only backdate 1-3 months unless requested
- ×Not appealing your Council Tax band if you suspect it's wrong
Frequently asked questions
Can I get CTR and Universal Credit?▾
Yes — they're separate. Many councils give automatic full CTR if you're on UC with no earnings.
Will CTR cover all my Council Tax?▾
Pension-age yes (up to 100%). Working-age usually 70-90% depending on your council's scheme.
How long does it take?▾
Usually 4-6 weeks for a decision. Apply with evidence of income, ID and tenancy.
Do I have to reapply each year?▾
No, but you must report any change in circumstances (income, household, savings).
Can I challenge my Council Tax band?▾
Yes via the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) — see our Council Tax Band Checker for the process.