Apply for Council Tax Reduction

If you wish to apply for Council Tax Reduction (previously called Council Tax Benefit), please click on the button below or call 01856 873535 extension 2116. You can also ask for help on how to complete the application forms. Home visits, if suitable, are also available on request.

Coronavirus (Covid-19) - Service changes With immediate effect we will be accepting applications for council tax reduction online or over the phone.  Verification where required can be e-mailed to us, or posted.

Council Tax Reduction Application Process

You will be asked about the people who live at your home, and for details of your income and savings. You’ll need to provide evidence such as payslips, bank statements or benefit award letters. You will need to send us original documents, which will be returned to you. 

You can download a copy of our Application form for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction from the Related Downloads section of this web page.

Joint Income and House Sharing

If you are married, or live with your partner as if you were married, you will be assessed on your joint income. But you only need to complete one application form. If you share the responsibility for Council Tax with someone other than your partner, for example, a brother or sister, you can apply separately. Then you will need to complete individual application forms.

Council Tax Reduction Payment Schedule

The Reduction is usually paid from the Monday that follows the day we received your application form. Sometimes it can be backdated if you have a good reason for not making an earlier claim. 

Pensioners

If you, or your partner, are aged 60 years or over and have applied to the Pension Service for Pension Credit you may receive a Council Tax Reduction application form direct from them. If you complete and return that form to us you will not have to fill in the Council's own application form. If you have any doubts, please contact us.