Do Foster Carers Have to Pay Council Tax? Discounts & Exemptions

Foster carers provide a vital service by caring for children in need. While foster carers must pay Council Tax, they may be eligible for discounts and reductions depending on their circumstances.

This guide explains how Council Tax works for foster carers, available discounts, and how to apply for financial support.

Understanding Council Tax for Foster Carers

• Foster carers must pay Council Tax like any other household.

• The amount depends on property banding and local council rates.

• Foster children do not count as residents for Council Tax purposes, which may affect discount eligibility.

Foster carers on low incomes may qualify for Council Tax Reduction (CTR) or other support.

Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions for Foster Carers

Foster carers may qualify for various Council Tax discounts, including:

• Single Person Discount (25%)

• Council Tax Reduction for Low Income

• Discretionary Discounts (some councils offer foster carer reductions)

• Second Adult Rebate (for low-income adults living with you)

Each local council has different policies, so check with your local authority to see what support is available.

Single Person Discount (25%)

• If a foster carer lives alone, they may qualify for a 25% discount on Council Tax.

• Foster children do not count as adults, so they do not affect this discount.

Example:

• A foster carer living alone in a Band D property.

• Full Council Tax: £2,000 per year.

• Single Person Discount (25% off): £500 reduction.

• New bill: £1,500 per year.

Council Tax Reduction for Low-Income Foster Carers

• Foster carers on a low income may qualify for Council Tax Reduction (CTR).

• The amount depends on income, savings, and household circumstances.

To apply for CTR, visit GOV.UK’s Council Tax Reduction page and enter your postcode.

Second Adult Rebate

• If a foster carer shares their home with another adult on a low income, they may be eligible for a Second Adult Rebate.

• This discount reduces Council Tax based on the other adult’s financial situation, rather than the foster carer’s.

To apply, contact your local council.

Do Some Councils Offer Extra Discounts for Foster Carers?

• Some councils offer discretionary Council Tax reductions for foster carers.

• These are not automatic and must be applied for separately.

To check if your council offers foster carer support, visit your local council’s website.

Final Thoughts

• Foster carers must pay Council Tax, but discounts may apply.

• Single Person Discount (25%) is available if you live alone.

• Low-income foster carers may qualify for Council Tax Reduction.

• Some councils offer extra support for foster carers—check locally.

To apply for Council Tax discounts, visit GOV.UK’s Council Tax support page and enter your postcode.