Pensioners
If you are a pensioner, you can apply for Council Tax Support and Second Adult Rebate (SAR) to reduce your Council Tax.
What is Second Adult Rebate (SAR)?
SAR can reduce your Council Tax if you are the only person liable to pay but have another adult living with you who:
- Is over 18
- Is not your partner
- Is not jointly liable for Council Tax
- Does not pay rent to you
- Is on a low income or certain benefits
Council Tax Support is based on your income and capital, while SAR is based on the income (not capital) of the other adult. You may qualify for SAR even if you don't qualify for Council Tax Support. If eligible for both, you will receive the higher benefit. SAR can provide up to a 25% reduction in your Council Tax bill, depending on the second adult's income.
How to claim Council Tax Support
Before applying, you should check your entitlement using the benefits calculator.
Benefits calculator
Step 1 – Check your entitlement
- Use the benefits calculator to see whether you are likely to qualify for Council Tax Support.
- The calculator will show how much help you may receive and explain how the amount has been worked out.
Step 2 – Apply if eligible
- If the calculator shows you are entitled to Council Tax Support, you will have the option ‘How to claim?’ as shown in image below
- Follow the link provided in the calculator ‘How to Claim?’ to complete and submit your application.
Important information
- If you have already made a claim for Housing Benefit, you don't need to apply again.
- Council Tax Support is based on your current circumstances, so it’s important the details you provide are accurate and up to date.
- Using the benefits calculator only does not count as making / submitting a valid claim. You must follow the ‘How to claim?’ link and submit a full claim application with the required evidence.