Do Muslims Pay Council Tax UK?

Muslims in the UK pay council tax like everyone else. Learn about religious exemptions, council tax discounts and how to apply for relief if eligible.

Muslims in the UK are required to pay council tax like any other resident. Council tax is a charge set by local authorities to pay for public services such as waste collection, local schools, libraries, policing and street maintenance. It applies regardless of religion or background. However, some individuals—whether Muslim or not—may qualify for a discount or exemption depending on their circumstances. There is also a specific exemption available for certain religious communities, which may apply in rare cases.

Are Religious Groups Exempt from Council Tax?

In most cases, members of religious communities—including Muslims—are not exempt from council tax. That being said, there is a specific exemption known as the council tax exemption for members of religious communities, which applies under strict conditions.

To qualify for this exemption, a person must:

  • Be a full-time member of a religious community

  • Have no income or capital of their own (apart from state benefits)

  • Be dependent on the community for material needs

  • Live in accommodation provided by the religious community

  • Be engaged in prayer, contemplation, education or the relief of suffering

This exemption is generally designed for those in monastic or cloistered communities—more commonly applied in Christian religious orders—where members live communally and do not earn wages.

While it's technically possible for a Muslim in a religious community to qualify, it would only apply if all the above conditions are met.

Do Muslims Pay Council Tax?

Yes. In practice, most Muslims in the UK live independently and are liable for council tax like any other resident. There is no blanket exemption based on faith. Muslims, like other residents, may be eligible for discounts or reductions based on income, household composition, or other factors—but not religion alone.

Who Can Be Disregarded for Council Tax Purposes?

Council tax is calculated based on the number of adults living in a property. However, some people are disregarded for council tax purposes. If enough residents are disregarded, this can result in a 25% or 50% discount, or even full exemption.

People who can be disregarded include:

  • Full-time students

  • Apprentices

  • People with severe mental impairment (e.g. dementia)

  • Live-in carers

  • Under-18s

  • Certain religious community members, as discussed above

  • Diplomats or foreign diplomats

  • People in prison (in some cases)

Each disregard is based on legal definitions, not personal belief or religious affiliation. If only one adult in a household is counted, the property may qualify for a 25% single person discount.

How to Apply for an Exemption or Discount

If you think you qualify for a council tax exemption or discount, you should contact your local council directly. Each council manages its own system, so procedures may vary slightly.

To apply:                                             

  1. Visit your local council's website

  2. Search for “council tax discounts and exemptions”

  3. Complete the relevant online form or request a paper form

  4. Provide any supporting documents, such as proof of benefits, student status, or confirmation of religious community membership

  5. Wait for confirmation from your council

If you're part of a recognised religious community and believe the exemption may apply, your council may require written confirmation from the religious organisation about your living arrangements and financial situation.

Final Thoughts

Muslims are not exempt from council tax on the basis of faith. Like any UK resident, they pay council tax unless their personal or household circumstances qualify them for a discount or exemption. There is a religious exemption available for full-time members of religious communities, but it’s only available under strict conditions and applies to very specific living arrangements.

If you think you may be eligible for any type of discount—religious or otherwise—your first step should be to speak to your local authority. They will provide clear guidance on your entitlement and help you apply.