Amid the cost-of-living crisis, many of us dread paying out our council tax every month. But hundreds and thousands of Brits could be eligible for a council tax discount or complete exemption without even realising it.
The average band D council in Scotland for 2023/24 was £1,417 according to Government figures. Of course, council tax helps local authorities provide essential services we all rely on – including waste and recycling, but many of us could do without making this payment every month.
Martin Lewis recently discussed the topic on his ITV show, saying certain medical conditions referred to as SMIs could result in council tax exemptions, reports the Mirror.
“A severe mental impairment (SMI) – horrible term, not mine – is defined as [impact on] intelligence and social functioning which appears to be permanent,” he said.
Severe dementia, strokes, severe Parkinson’s, and brain injuries were likely to fall under the government’s classification of an SMI, explained the money expert.
“To claim it, that person must also be on a qualifying benefit,” Lewis warned. “In Scotland, they must be eligible for a qualifying benefit even if they’re not actually claiming.”
The government states SMI ‘refers to people with psychological problems that are often so debilitating that their ability to engage in functional and occupational activities is severely impaired’.
Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder often fall under this term, although due to its broad definition, there is no concrete list of diagnoses that qualify as SMIs.
Brits will need a certificate to say they’re severely mentally impaired from a medical professional, such as a GP, according to Gov UK. If you qualify and live alone, you’ll be fully exempt from paying council tax.
If you live with an adult carer, the household receives a 50 per cent discount, while a 25 per cent discount is available if an SMI person is living with one qualifying adult.
There are other reasons you could be entitled to a council tax exemption, which are listed below. However, it’s important you apply for your discount or exemption before you stop payments.
Council tax exemptions – the full list
- Under 18 years old
- On certain apprentice schemes
- 18 or 19 years old and in full-time education
- A full-time student at college or university
- Under 25 years old and get funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency
- A student nurse
- A foreign language assistant registered with the British Council
- Severely mentally impaired
- A live-in carer for someone who is not your partner, spouse, or child under 18
- A diplomat
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