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Council Tax Reduction Scheme — Means-Tested Help

By GetRighted Legal Research TeamLast updated July 2026

Summary

Since April 2013, council tax benefit has been replaced by localised council tax reduction schemes (CTRS). Each billing authority in England designs and administers its own scheme, providing means-tested reductions for households on low incomes. Pensioners receive a minimum level of support set by central government regulations, but working-age schemes vary significantly between authorities — some offer up to 100% reduction, others cap support at 75% or 80%. CTRS is distinct from the statutory discounts and exemptions that GetRighted specialises in, but many households qualify for both.

How CTRS Differs from Statutory Discounts

Statutory discounts (single person, carer disregard, annexe) and exemptions (Class N, Class F) are rights under primary and secondary legislation — the billing authority cannot refuse them if conditions are met. Council tax reduction schemes are locally designed benefits based on income and circumstances. You can receive both: a statutory discount reduces the headline charge, then the CTRS further reduces what you actually pay based on your financial situation.

Outside GetRighted's Scope — But Worth Knowing About

GetRighted focuses on statutory council tax disputes — discounts, exemptions, and liability challenges. CTRS applications follow a different process through the billing authority's benefits team. If you are on a low income, apply for CTRS alongside any statutory discount or exemption you are entitled to. The two are cumulative.

Sources

  1. Local Government Finance Act 2012 (CTRS provisions)
  2. Local Government Finance Act 1992, s.13A

Frequently Asked Questions

Is council tax reduction the same as council tax benefit?
Council tax benefit was a national benefit administered by the DWP. It was abolished in 2013 and replaced by locally designed council tax reduction schemes. The principle is similar — means-tested support — but each authority now sets its own rules.
Can I get council tax reduction and the single person discount at the same time?
Yes. The single person discount reduces the headline charge by 25%. The council tax reduction scheme then further reduces the discounted amount based on your income. Apply for both separately.

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