Council Tax discounts

Council Tax Discounts apply in various situations. You may download application forms for certain circumstances below.

The full Council Tax bill assumes that there are 2 adults living in a home. If only one adult lives in a property (as their main home) the bill will be reduced by 25%.

If a dwelling is unoccupied and unfurnished, the bill may be reduced by 100% for up to six months, then 50% thereafter. If a dwelling is unoccupied and furnished e.g. a second home, the bill will be reduced by 10%.

Certain people are not counted when looking at the number of adult residents in a dwelling if they meet certain conditions.

If your bill shows that we have given you a discount, you must tell us straight away about any change in your circumstances that could affect your discount. If you do not tell us you could be liable to pay a penalty of £50. If you continue to fail to provide the correct information you may be liable to pay a further penalty of £200.

Who may be entitled to a discount?

  • A single person, living alone in a property
  • Full time students, non-British spouses / dependants of students and student nurses
  • Apprentices and Youth Training trainees
  • Patients resident in hospital
  • People who are being looked after in care homes
  • People who have an enduring mental illness
  • People staying in certain hostels or night shelters
  • 18 and 19 year olds who are at or have just left school
  • Care workers working for low pay, usually for charities
  • People caring for someone with a disability who is not a spouse, partner or child under 18
  • Members of visiting overseas forces and certain international institutions
  • Members of religious communities (monks and nuns)
  • People in prison (except those in prison for non-payment of Council Tax or a fine)
  • Diplomats and members of international organisations who's headquarters are in the UK.

If you think you may be entitled to a discount and this is not shown on your bill you can either complete an application form (below) or contact customerservices@carlisle.gov.uk or telephone 01228 817200.


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