Housing benefit and council tax support
Carers in the UK can access housing support, including Housing Benefit for rent, Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) loans, and Council Tax Reduction, often enhanced by a “carer premium” or “carer element” if receiving Carer’s Allowance.
There are other exemptions which may be useful to apply for.
Council Tax reductions
When you are a carer or you live with someone who is severely disabled, your household might be eligible to a reduction in Council Tax.
Council Tax calculations are always based on 2 qualifying adults. If one of the adults has a Severe Mental Impairment, for example due to cognitive problems because of dementia or a learning disability, then this adult would be disregarded for council tax.
There are also discounts for single adults living in a property, for carers who look after someone who is not their partner, and for properties which have been modified to accommodate a severely disabled person.
Please follow this link to find out more about Council Tax discounts and how to claim in York.
Bedroom Tax Exemption: If you need to stay overnight to care for someone, you may be allowed a spare bedroom without a reduction in Housing Benefit, provided they receive qualifying disability benefits. See exemptions and rules here.
Warm Home discount scheme: May provide additional assistance with heating costs.
It is important to ensure both the carer and the person being cared for are receiving all entitled benefits. Carer’s Allowance can impact other benefits, so seeking advice is advisable.
Contact us on: 01904 715490 or email: enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk
