Council Tax & Housing Benefit
Council Tax – The Carer's Discount
If you look after someone who receives the higher/middle rate of the Care Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or receives Attendance Allowance……
AND Care for that person for a minimum of 35 hours per week
(If you receive Carer’s Allowance, previously known as Invalid Care Allowance, you have already proven you care for more than 35 hours per week)
AND the person you are caring for is notyour spouse or partner
AND the person you are caring for is over 18
AND the person you are caring for lives with you
……then you may be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax bill.
If you believe you may be entitled to a Carers Discount
Reduction in your Council Tax Band
If your home has been adapted for a disabled child or adult who lives with you, you may qualify for a reduction in the valuation band on your property. For example, if your home is presently in Band C, it may be reduced to Band B. No discount can be given for a house in Band A.
Council Tax Benefit
If you are finding it difficult to pay your council tax you may be entitled to council tax benefit. This is a means tested benefit and is payable to any one who is liable to pay council tax whether they rent or own their home.
For more information on any of the above Council Tax Benefits please contact Gordon House on 0191 427 9999.
Housing Benefit
Again if you are having difficulties with paying your rent you may be entitled to housing benefit. This is a means tested benefit for people who pay rent.
Back dating a claim
You may feel your claim should start from an earlier date. In this instance include a letter with the claim form explaining your reasons for not claiming earlier. Not every reason is treated as a good cause but every case should be treated individually. If the benefits officer thinks you have good cause for not claiming earlier they will back date your claim.
