Even if you do not get Income Support or Pension Credit and you are a carer on a low income, you can often get help from the council towards your rent and council tax. These benefits are called Housing Benefit (for rent) and Council Tax Benefit.
Some facts about help with rent or Council Tax
Help is given for council, housing association or private rented accommodation.
You must have less than £16,000 in savings to get Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. However, this limit doesn't apply if you are on the 'guarantee' part of Pension Credit.
You get more generous benefits as a carer. For carers, £20 of net earnings is ignored when working out how much you'll get.
Get more information about Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit, including details of how to claim.
Council Tax Discounts
You may be able to claim a Council Tax discount of 25% if you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a disabled person who gets a higher rate disability benefit. The person cared for must share your address. The discount does not apply if the person is your partner or your child aged under 18.
Some other carers get a discount if they are providing care for at least 24 hours a week and earning no more than £36 a week for caring. Get advice.
Other Council Tax discounts or reductions - Manchester residents (external website) may be available for single people or disabled people. Get advice.
How to claim - Manchester residents can apply to the Benefits Service (external site).
Need more help? Live in Manchester? Send us an email or book an appointment with the Online Adviser
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Need more help? Live in Manchester? Send us an email
Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
This information is for guidance only and is not an authoritative statement on the law. Please read our Terms and Conditions.
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