A Martin Lewis fan has explained how they cut their council tax bill in half by completing one simple check.
The MoneySavingExpert reader, known only as Lincoln, used a free benefit checker tool to see if he was entitled to any extra money.
He wasn’t eligible for any benefits, but the calculator did flag that he was paying too much council tax.
After applying to his council for a reduction, Lincoln saw his bill reduced from £1,333 a year to £642 - a saving of £691, or around 50%.
Writing in to MSE, Lincoln said: “ I used your calculator to see if I was entitled to pension credit, and it told me I wasn't.
“However, it said I was paying too much council tax, so I applied and got it reduced from £1,333 a year to £642. WOW."
Some of the most popular online benefit calculators include ones from Turn2us, Policy in Practice and entitledto.
Lincoln didn’t say exactly what type of council tax help he applied for, but there are many ways to cut your bill.
How to lower your council tax bill
Some people could be entitled to a council tax discount ranging from 25% to 100% off your bill.
But the help offered depends on where you live - so it's best to get in touch with your local authority to see what you could claim.
As an example, if you're the only adult living at your address then you could be entitled to 25% off your council tax bill, or you could get 50% off your council tax bill if everyone is your home is “disregarded” from paying.
The maximum 100% discount could apply to someone who has a severe mental impairment and lives alone, or if you live in an all-student household.
There are lots of different circumstances where you could apply for a discount - so check with your council to see what help they offer.
You may also be able to claim help through a Council Tax Reduction scheme (sometimes called Council Tax Support) if you're on a low income or on certain benefits.
You could see your council tax bills reduced by as much as 100% depending on your circumstances.
Whether you are entitled to help through a Council Tax Support scheme largely depends on the following:
-
Where you live
-
Your circumstances (eg income, number of children, benefits, residency status)
-
Your household income - this includes savings, pensions and your partner’s income
-
If your children live with you
-
If other adults live with you
You can apply if you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working.
Again, each council has their own scheme so the help offered isn't guaranteed - but it is still worth checking out.
You may also be able to challenge your council tax if you think you're in the wrong band.
Do your research first though, as you could end up increasing your bill if you’re found to be in too low of a band.
