Discretionary Council Tax reductions
The Discretionary Council Tax Reduction scheme allows us to provide additional assistance to Council Tax payers by reducing their Council Tax liability where we consider it appropriate. It is separate from, and awarded in addition to, all other discounts, reductions and Council Tax Support awards.
Discretionary reductions are awarded under section 13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended. Each case is decided on its individual merits, but you must meet some or all of our qualifying criteria.
We will consider whether:
- there is evidence of financial hardship or personal circumstances that justifies a reduction in your Council Tax liability
- you satisfy us that you have taken all reasonable steps to resolve your situation before applying
- you have applied for Council Tax Support
- you have already applied for and been awarded any other discounts or reliefs you are eligible for
- you have access to other assets that you could use to pay your Council Tax
- you have investigated all other legitimate means of resolving your situation
- our finances allow for a reduction to be made
- your situation and reason for your application are outside of your control
- the amount outstanding is not the result of wilful refusal to pay or culpable neglect
- in the case of an unoccupied property, it is not the sole or main residence of a Council Tax payer
You can find out more about the discretionary reduction scheme (hardship fund) in our policy, and you can apply online.