ZERO Council Tax for Students: Good news for students! If everyone living in your house is a full-time student, you don’t have to pay any Council Tax. This rule can help students save money while focusing on their education. Whether you’re in college, university, or studying for your A Levels, there are chances to get full exemption or at least a discount. Here’s everything you need to know in simple terms.
What Is Council Tax?
Council Tax is a fee you pay to your local council for services like garbage collection, street lights, and police support. But students in the UK can get a big relief – they may not need to pay this at all.
Full-Time Students Pay No Council Tax
If everyone living in your house is a full-time student, you don’t have to pay any Council Tax. But there are some rules to be called a full-time student.
What Counts As a Full-Time Student?
- To be considered a full-time student:
- Your course must last for at least one year.
- You must attend classes, lectures, or study for at least 21 hours every week.
- This applies to most university or college students doing degree or diploma courses.
If You’re Under 20 and Studying for A Levels
- If you’re under 20 years old and doing A Levels or something similar, the rules are a little different:
- Your course should last at least 3 months.
- You must study for at least 12 hours each week.
- This also includes things like NVQs or similar courses.
What If You Live With Non-Students?
Even if not everyone in your house is a student, you might still get a discount on Council Tax. For example, if one person in the house is not a student, the council might give you a 25% discount. It’s still a good saving, so it’s worth checking.
How to Apply for Student Discount or Exemption
To get this benefit, you need to inform your local council. You might have to give them proof, like a letter from your college or university showing your student status. Many councils also let you apply online.
Why This Matters for Students
Living costs can be high, especially when you’re studying full-time and not earning much. Getting a Council Tax exemption or discount helps reduce monthly expenses. Many students don’t know about this, so make sure you check and apply if you qualify.
If you’re a full-time student, you can save a lot by not paying Council Tax. Make sure your course meets the time and hours requirement. Even if you live with non-students, you may still get a discount. Always check with your local council and apply for the exemption or discount. It’s one less bill to worry about while you study.
Source: https://x.com/GOVUK/status/1921883126592049589
FAQ
Who qualifies as a full-time student for Council Tax exemption?
A full-time student is someone whose course lasts at least one year and includes at least 21 hours of study per week.
Can students under 20 get a Council Tax discount?
Yes, if you’re under 20 and your course is at least 3 months long with 12 study hours per week, you can qualify.
Do I need to apply for the Council Tax exemption myself?
Yes, students need to apply to their local council and submit proof of their course and study hours.
Will I still get a discount if I live with non-students?
Yes, if only one adult in the house is not a student, you may still receive a 25% discount.
Is the Council Tax exemption automatic for students?
No, it’s not automatic. You must apply with the required documents to your local council.
