Council Tax Support Calculator
Estimate your Council Tax Reduction for 2026. Find out how much financial help you could receive based on your income, savings, and household circumstances.
Calculate Your Support
Enter your annual Council Tax bill, household income, and savings to get an instant, personalised estimate of your potential Council Tax Support.
Household Details
Enter your financial and household figures to estimate your entitlement.
Support Evaluation
Estimated Council Tax Reduction and amount to pay
Council Tax Support Criteria
Understanding the general rules that local councils use to calculate your Council Tax Reduction.
| Factor | Working Age Rule | Pension Age Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Support | Up to 80% – 100% of bill (varies by council) | Up to 100% of bill |
| Savings Limit | £16,000 (unless on Guarantee Pension Credit) | No upper limit, but savings over £10,000 reduce support |
| Taper Rate | Typically 20% – 30% of income over the ‘applicable amount’ | Typically 20% of income over the ‘applicable amount’ |
| Minimum Payment | Most councils require you to pay at least 10% – 20% of the bill | Often 0% if income is very low |
How to Claim Council Tax Support
Follow these straightforward steps to apply for a Council Tax Reduction with your local authority.
Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the process with your local council.
Need Help?
Free, confidential support is available.
Helpline: 0800 144 8848 (England)
They can help you check your eligibility and draft letters to your council.
Council Tax Support FAQ
Everything you need to know about claiming Council Tax Support, eligibility, and reductions in the UK.
Council Tax Support (also known as Council Tax Reduction) is a means-tested benefit that helps people on a low income pay their Council Tax. The amount you get depends on your income, savings, household size, and your local council’s specific rules.
If you are of working age, you generally cannot get Council Tax Support if you have more than £16,000 in savings or capital, unless you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. For those of Pension Credit age, savings over £16,000 may reduce your support but do not automatically disqualify you.
No, this calculator provides an estimate. Council Tax Support is administered by individual local authorities, and each council sets its own specific rules, taper rates, and minimum payment amounts. You must apply through your local council for an exact assessment.
Yes, you can work and still claim Council Tax Support. The amount you receive will gradually reduce as your earnings increase, but many low-income workers still qualify for partial support.
If you have another adult living with you (like an adult child or a friend) who is not your partner, the council may assume they should contribute to the household costs. This can result in a ‘non-dependant deduction’, which reduces the amount of Council Tax Support you receive.