There are various discounts and exemptions that you could apply for to help reduce your Council Tax bill.
Housing and Council Tax Benefit
Council Tax Benefit ensures that those in receipt of Income Support, Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) and Job Seekers Allowance (Income Based) will not normally pay Council Tax. Other people on low incomes may have their bills reduced.
More information can be found on the Benefits web pages where you will be able to input your financial details and you will be given an indication of the benefit you might receive. You will also be able to apply for Housing or Council Tax Benefit online. Alternatively, contact the Benefits service team on (01483) 444884.
Disabled Band reduction
If you, or someone who lives with you, needs an extra room (which could include an extra kitchen or bathroom), or extra space in your property because of a disability, you may be entitled to a reduced Council Tax bill. This would take the form of a one band reduction. If your property has already been placed in a lower band, this is indicated on your bill.
Carer's discount
If you are caring for someone with a disability in your own home who is not a spouse, partner or child under 18 you may qualify for a discount of 25%. Qualification for this discount also depends on the total number of adults living in the property, how many hours of care provided and the receipt of certain state benefits.
Students
If you are a full time student you will be exempt from paying Council Tax for the period covered by your student exemption certificate. This can be obtained from your place of study and must be presented to the council in order to receive your exemption. If you live with a full time student you will be liable to pay the Council Tax, however you may still be entitled to a discount of 25%.
Single occupier discount
If you are the only adult living in the property you will be entitled to a 25% reduction. Find out more about single discounts.
Other discounts include those for...
Apprentices, youth training trainees, residents of care homes, the severely mentally impaired, residents of hostels, 18 and 19 year olds who are continuing on to higher education, care workers on low pay living with the person receiving care, diplomats, monks and nuns, prisoners.
If you think you may qualify, or require further information on these discounts, please contact the Council Tax service.
Council Tax
Revenue and Payments Services
Guildford Borough Council
Mill mead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444864
Fax: 01483 444866
Email: ctax@guildford.gov.uk