Do I have to pay the full amount of Council Tax?
Some people are entitled to reductions in their Council Tax or do not have to pay Council Tax at all. Also, some houses (or dwellings) are 'exempt' from Council Tax. This means no Council Tax is payable on them. Below is a quick summary. More detailed information can be found on the websites listed at the bottom of the page or get advice from a Welfare Benefits Adviser.
Single People
If you live on your own you will be able to get your Council Tax bill reduced by 25%.
People on a low income
You might be entitled to Council Tax Benefit. This could reduce your bill in part or in full.
People who are severely mentally impaired
If you fall into this group you do not have to pay any Council Tax. If you live with someone who is severely mentally impaired then they are not taken into account when calculating how much Council Tax you should pay. For instance, if there are just the two of you in the house, you will be eligible for the single person discount.
Students
If you are a full-time student living in Halls of Residence or other designated student accommodation, the property will usually be exempt from Council Tax. This means you will not have to pay it. Other students could be liable for Council Tax but may be able to claim Council Tax Benefit. See also Student Housing information.
A person liable for Council Tax who shares the property with other adults
If you cannot claim the single person discount because another adult lives with you, you might be able to claim 'Second Adult Rebate'.
Exempt properties
These can include vacant or unoccupied dwellings, a house that has been repossessed and is now the property of a mortgage company, student halls of residence or property that only students live in, and armed forces accommodation. This is not a full list so get advice if you own or live in a property that you think should be exempt.
Information on other websites
Manchester City Council
Information about Council Tax reductions and Council Tax exemptions (for Manchester residents)
Council Tax rates for Manchester 2008 - 2009 Valuation and Banding information
Adviceguide (Citizens Advice website)
General information about properties that are exempt from paying Council Tax
Valuation Office Agency
The government agency that compiles and maintains Council Tax valuation lists. Their website has information on what constitutes a "dwelling", how properties are valued and how to appeal.
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Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
Date Reviewed:
22 October 2008
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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