Dementia Sufferer?
If you or a loved one suffers from Dementia or is mentally impaired in some way then you are entitled to a Reduction in your Council Tax bill. This could be 100% and it could be back dated.
The council need to check that you qualify and they will need the following bits of data:
- A medical certificate from your GP.
In our experience of applying, the council write to the Medical Centre and they could take weeks to reply. It would be up to you to chase your medical centre but this can become exhausting but do persist. - You also need to supply a copy of Incapacity Benefit, Attendance Allowance, Severe Disability Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (care component) paid at the highest rate, Unemployability Allowance or Supplement, Personal Independence Payment (standard or enhanced rate).
You will need to photograph or scan the documents into a computer and then when the form asks for it you need to upload it.
The electronic form is then processed and you will have to phone the Council Tax office is a couple of weeks to see where it is in the system. It can a couple of months for the application to be processed fully.
Backdated Payment?
What if you have just discovered that you or your loved one is entitled to this discount and you/they have been suffering for years. Well some councils will give you a rebate on the tax that has been overpaid.
If your council allows you to apply then you need to write a letter explaining the circumstances, you do not need to explain why you haven’t done so before but you will need all of the medical evidence and benefits claimed. The most important date is the date that the benefit started.
Every council is different and it is best to check their procedure however you have the law on your side: The Local Government Finance Act 1992: Schedule 1
We’re Here To Help
If you have any questions regarding any help with benefits then please do call Grey Matters Consultancy and one of our Life Navigators will be able to support you.
