A Guide for homeowners who wish to claim Council Tax Benefit

Council Tax Benefit may be granted to homeowners who are either on Income Support/Jobseekers Allowance or on a low income.

There are two types of benefit, main scheme Council Tax Benefit and Second Adult Rebate. If you qualify for both we will award the benefit that will pay you the most. This is known as a "better buy".

Council Tax Benefit will be awarded in addition to any discount or exemption awarded by the Council Tax department.

You cannot normally get Council Tax Benefit if you and your partner, if any, have savings of £16,000 or more.

Second Adult Rebate

You can claim Second Adult Rebate if there are other adult(s), who are not your partner, in your property who are on Income Support/Jobseekers Allowance or a low income.

How to claim Council Tax Benefit and Second Adult Rebate

A claim form, available from the Council offices, must be completed and returned to the Council as soon as possible because, in the majority of cases, Council Tax Benefit is only awarded from the Monday following the date the form is received in the Benefit office.
Original documents must be supplied to prove identity, income and capital for both yourself and your partner, if any. Proof of income for any non dependant in the household should also be provided.

How Benefit is paid

If you are awarded Council Tax Benefit this will be credited directly to your Council Tax account. A revised bill will be issued showing the award and amended instalments, if applicable.

Changes in Circumstances

If you are awarded Council Tax Benefit you are required by law to notify the Benefit office of any change in your circumstances which may affect your Benefit entitlement.

Read out more about reporting a change in your circumstances

This is a short guide to the Council Tax Benefit scheme. For further information please contact Wyre Forest District Council on 01562 732928.