Who can claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction?
Who can claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction?
Access to online services
Register via our online services portal to
- make a claim for Housing Benefit/Council Tax Reduction
- report a change of circumstances
- report a change of address
- view claim summary of awards
- receive online notifications
- Anyone who has to pay council tax can claim Council Tax Reduction
- Anyone who has to pay rent can claim Housing Benefit
Housing Benefit eligibility
You can make a new claim for housing benefit if
- you and your partner have reached state pension age
- you're in supported, sheltered or temporary accommodation
- if you are in receipt of Universal Credit, you can make a separate application to us for council tax reduction
Council Tax Reduction eligibility
To qualify, you must live in the property and it must be your main residence.
You will not be able to claim if you or your partner
- have savings or capital of £16,000 or more, unless you or your partner receives Guaranteed Pension Credit
- own or are buying your own home
- are in a nursing home or residential care home
- have not yet moved into your house
- are a full-time student in higher education, unless you're in an exempt category, such as a single parent or pensioner, or if you have a disability
Benefit calculator
For more information on what you are entitled to, you can use a benefit calculator. Information is also available on mygov.scot on benefits available.