What is Council Tax Reduction?
Where a link is marked *, it is a partner link — we receive commission at no extra cost to you. Links without a * earn us nothing. How we make money.
In short: A council-run discount on council tax for low-income households — formerly called Council Tax Support. You apply to your local council; reduction can be up to 100% depending on income, savings and who lives with you.
Last reviewed:
Reviewed by Kaiser Khan
Rules differ between England, Scotland and Wales. Pensioners often receive more generous reductions.
Claiming CTR does not automatically grant other benefits — but many CTR recipients also qualify for Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Apply through your council website or use gov.uk to find the form.
Primary source: gov.uk/apply-for-council-tax-reduction
Part of our Benefits & tax
This quick answer sits inside our wider benefits & tax hub — with sub-guides, calculators and step-by-step explainers on the same topic.
Read the full benefits & tax guide →