Article: Council tax band reductions Article Body Where a home has been adapted for the needs of someone with a disability who lives in the home, the council may be able to grant a discount to reduce the council tax charge. Any adaptation must be essential or of major importance to the well being of the disabled person because of the nature and the extent of their disability. Where relief is granted the banding on which the council tax bill is calculated will be reduced by one band. For example if the property is assessed for council tax in band C, the property will be charged as though it was a band B property. Properties in the lowest council tax band, band A may also qualify for a reduction which will be charged at a reduced band A (-) charge. This relief does not affect the value of a property or the true banding in the Valuation Office Agency's (VOA) valuation list. Who is entitled to a disability reduction? A disabled person who is substantially and permanently disabled may be entitled to a reduction. In order for a disability band reduction to be granted, the property must contain certain facilities that are considered as essential or of major importance to the well being of the disabled person because of the nature and extent of their disability. The property must contain one of the following: A room other than a bathroom, kitchen or toilet (and not a garage) which is predominantly used by a disabled person. Examples include a room used specifically for storing specialised equipment (such as a dialysis unit or a wheelchair) or a downstairs room (such as a dining room), which has been converted into a bedroom. Or An additional bathroom or kitchen which is provided for a disabled person. A second toilet with or without a washbasin cannot be classed as a bathroom. Or Extra space created in the house to allow for a wheelchair to be used inside. The disabled person must require the use of a wheelchair inside. Examples include doorframes being made wider or walls removed for the wheelchair. An applicant will need to show that without the feature that they or the disabled person would find it difficult to live in the dwelling and their health would suffer. The council will be required to arrange for an officer to visit to the property in order to discuss the application and determine eligibility. For more information about disability band reductions contact the Council Tax section see council tax account enquiries. How to claim disabled relief You can apply for relief by completing a disabled relief form and returning it to Benefits and Taxation. A contact telephone number must be provided on the application so that an appointment for home visit to determine eligibility can be arranged. If possible a note from a qualified professional such as an occupational therapist or social worker should be provided with the application. This should help confirm a disability and indicate whether the additional space or room is essential to the well being of the disabled person. Applicants are not required to apply for relief each year, however, the council will periodically request confirmation that the circumstances on which the claim is made remain the same. An applicant can appeal against refusal of a reduction. For more information contact the Council Tax section in writing to explaining their reasons for objecting to the decision see council tax account enquiries. Other information For other helpful information, includng: our contact details methods of payment opening hours Click on council tax account enquiries. You can also view your account online by clicking view your council tax account Additional information To learn more about our compliments, comments and complaints process please see general complaints. Service standards Details of the council's service standards in relation to council tax can be obtained by clicking on council tax service standards. Processing of information The proper processing of information is important to us. Click to view our Fair Processing Policy. Other useful websites Valuation Office Agency Department of Communities & Local Government Berneslai Homes Citizens Advice Bureau