You may be entitled to a Council Tax discount if you provide care for someone, or if you live with someone who needs care.

We will explain who qualifies, what discount may apply, and how to tell us about a change in circumstances.

Who can qualify

Council Tax discounts may apply to:

• people who provide care to someone with a disability or long‑term illness
• care workers who live with the person they care for
• households where a carer is not counted for Council Tax purposes

Different rules apply depending on your situation.

Carers who live with the person they care for

You may not be counted for Council Tax if:

• you provide care for at least 35 hours a week, and
• you live in the same property as the person you care for, and
• the person you care for receives a qualifying disability benefit

If you are disregarded, this could reduce the Council Tax bill for the household.

Live‑in care workers

You may qualify for a Council Tax discount if you are a care worker and you:

• provide care on behalf of a care provider or local authority
• live in the same property as the person you care for
• are paid to provide care
• are not the spouse, partner or parent of the person you care for

When a full exemption may apply

A full Council Tax exemption is rare, but in some cases it may apply if:

• all adults in the property are disregarded for Council Tax purposes

We will assess each case individually.

When other discounts may apply

If the person you care for is classed as severely mentally impaired (SMI), they may also be disregarded for Council Tax.

This could reduce the bill further or lead to a full exemption.

Evidence you may need to provide

We may ask for:

• confirmation of caring responsibilities
• proof of benefits received by the person being cared for
• details of employment if you are a paid care worker

Providing evidence helps us apply the correct discount without delay.

How to tell us about a change

You must tell us if your circumstances change, including:

• starting or stopping caring responsibilities
• changes to benefits
• moving address

You will need your Council Tax account number.

Report a change in circumstances

Need help?

If you are unsure which discount applies, contact the Council Tax team and we can help you understand your options.