Council Tax Reduction Forms

What are Council Tax Reduction Forms?

Council tax reduction forms are official application documents that you must complete to apply for financial help with your council tax bill.These forms collect information about your income, savings, household circumstances, and any benefits you receive. The information you provide helps your local council determine if you're eligible for council tax reduction and how much you can receive.

Types of Council Tax Reduction Forms

The exact forms available depend on your local council, but common types include:

• Main application form: The primary form for council tax reduction
• Evidence forms: Forms for providing additional information
• Change of circumstances form: For updating your information
• Appeal forms: If you disagree with a decision
• Combined forms: Some councils offer joint applications for Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit—but this depends on your local authority

How to Get Council Tax Reduction Forms

You can obtain council tax reduction forms through several methods:

1. Online Download

Most councils provide forms on their websites:

• Visit your council's website: Go to your local council's official website
• Find the benefits section: Look for "Council Tax Reduction" or "Benefits"
• Download the correct form: Ensure you're downloading the form specific to your council
• Print at home: Print the form on A4 paper
• Complete by hand: Fill in the form using black ink

2. Request by Phone

You can request forms by calling your council:

• Call the benefits team: Contact your council's benefits department
• Request the form: Ask for a council tax reduction application form
• Provide your details: Give your name and address
• Wait for delivery: Forms are usually posted within 3-5 working days
• Check the envelope: Forms may come with guidance notes

3. Visit Council Office

You can collect forms in person:

• Find your council office: Locate your council's main office
• Visit during opening hours: Check the council's opening times
• Ask at reception: Request council tax reduction forms
• Get guidance: Staff may be able to help with questions
• Take multiple copies: Get extra forms in case of mistakes

How to Complete Council Tax Reduction Forms

Follow these steps to complete your council tax reduction form correctly:

Step 1: Read the Guidance Notes

Before starting to fill in the form:

• Read all instructions: Go through the guidance notes carefully
• Check eligibility: Make sure you meet the basic criteria
• Gather documents: Collect all required evidence
• Understand sections: Familiarize yourself with each part of the form
• Note deadlines: Be aware of any submission deadlines

Step 2: Personal Information

Complete the personal details section:

• Full name: Use your legal name as it appears on official documents
• Date of birth: Include your complete date of birth
• National Insurance number: Your NI number is required
• Address: Your current residential address
• Contact details: Phone number and email address

Step 3: Household Information

Provide details about everyone in your household:

• Household members: List everyone who lives with you
• Relationship to you: How each person is related to you
• Age of children: Ages of any children in the household
• Student status: Whether anyone is a full-time student
• Disability status: Any disabilities or health conditions

Step 4: Income and Benefits

Declare all your income and benefits:

• Employment income: Wages, salary, bonuses, overtime
• Benefits received: Universal Credit, PIP, Attendance Allowance, etc.
• Pension income: State pension, private pensions, occupational pensions
• Other income: Maintenance payments, rental income, investments
• Self-employment: Business income and expenses

Step 5: Savings and Capital

Declare all your savings and investments:

• Bank accounts: Current accounts, savings accounts
• Building society accounts: All building society savings
• Investments: Shares, bonds, unit trusts, ISAs
• Premium bonds: Current value of premium bonds
• Other assets: Property, vehicles, valuable items

Step 6: Evidence and Documents

Attach all required evidence:

• Proof of identity: Passport, driving licence, birth certificate
• Proof of income: Payslips, benefit letters, pension statements
• Bank statements: Last 3 months for all accounts
• Benefit letters: Current benefit award letters
• Other documents: Any other evidence requested

Common Form Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes when completing your council tax reduction form:

Tips for Accurate Completion

Follow these tips to ensure your form is completed correctly:

• Use black ink: Write clearly in black ink for better photocopying
• Check figures: Double-check all amounts and calculations
• Include everything: Don't leave any sections blank - use "N/A" if not applicable
• Keep copies: Make photocopies of your completed form and evidence
• Get help if needed: Ask for assistance from Citizens Advice or your council