Council Tax benefits

Only people who have to pay Council Tax (the liable person) can claim Council Tax Benefit.

The amount of Council Tax Benefit you get will depend on your income and household. If your income is too high but you have other adults living with you who have a low income, you may be able to claim "Second Adult Rebate". "Other adults" means people aged 18 years or over but does not include your partner or people who pay rent to you.

1. Where to apply

If there is no benefit shown on your bill and you think you may be entitled you should telephone our Contact Centre on 020 8430 2000.


2. How much Council Tax Benefit will you receive?

The amount granted is based on household income and personal circumstances. Benefit of up to 100% can be granted to people on Income Support or low incomes. The following table shows examples of income, personal circumstances and benefit. However, please note that it is only intended as a general guide and the actual benefit granted may vary.

Estimated Income Levels Based On A Band C Property

Single People Age Group	Maximum weekly Income £	Couples Age Group	Maximum Weekly Income £
Under 25 not working	139.20	where neither partner is working	.
25 or Over but Under 60 not working	150.90	Both 18- 59	182.85
60 or Over but Under 65 not working	204.15	Both 18-59 + 1 child	242.83
65 or Over not working	220.60	Both 18-59 + 2 children	286.71
18 or Over not working + 1 child	210.88	Both 60-64	261.75
18 or Over not working + 2 children	254.76	One or both 65 or over	283.30
Under 25 working	144.20	where one or both partners are working	.
25 or Over but Under 30 working	155.90	Both 18-59	192.85
60 or Over but Under 65 working	209.15	Both 18-59 + 1 child	252.83
65 or Over Working	225.60	Both 18- 59 + 2 children	296.71
18 or Over + 1 child	235.88	Both 60- 64	271.75
18 or Over + 2 children	279.76	One or both 65 or over	293.30

3. Changes in circumstance

You must inform Newham Benefit Services immediately if your circumstances change, for example, if there is:

• A change in your financial circumstances
• A change in the occupancy of the property
• Any change which may affect your entitlement to benefit
• Any award/change to an award of Working Tax* and Child Tax Credit*

*If you haven't claimed Tax Credits, you can phone the Inland Revenue helpline on 0845 300 3900 or textphone 0845 300 3909 between 8.00am and 8.00pm.

Alternatively, you can check to see if you are entitled or make a claim online through the Inland Revenue.

If you do not provide details and proof of any Tax Credit you receive, this could result in overpayment of benefit that you will normally be expected to pay back.