You might be able to get discount on your Council Tax bill if someone in your household is in hospital long term, or in prison.
Patients in long-term hospital
You can get a discount if someone in your household:
- is living in a hospital or registered care home
- does not intend to return to the household
You cannot get a discount if 2 or more other people also live in the household and they:
- count as an adult for Council Tax
- are not entitled to a discount
Prisoners
If you are being held in detention, including being held on remand, you may be entitled to a discount or exemption on the property you have left.
If you lived alone and have left your property empty because you are now being held in detention, you will be exempt from paying council tax on the property you have left. This exemption will last until you are released.
If you lived with one other person, who is now left alone in your property, a discount is awarded on the address you have left. If two or more people are left in the property, no discount can be awarded.
Detention is classed as:
- a prison, hospital or other place where a person has been placed by order of any court in the UK
- under the Immigration Act 1971 (S3)
- under the Mental Health Act 1983, or Army Act 1985, Armed Forces Act 2006, Air Force and other military Acts
You cannot qualify for any reduction if you are being held under Schedule 4 (8) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 for non-payment of council tax.
How much reduction you get
- if you lived alone you will be exempt from paying council tax until you are released
- a 25% discount is awarded if only one person remains in the property
How do I apply?
If you wish to enquire, please email council.tax@gravesham.gov.uk with your;
- council tax account reference
- full name
- address
- dates and any details of your circumstance to support your request
Or you may contact the Council Tax office by phone: 01474 337700.