How Much is Single Person Council Tax?

Single-person households get a 25% Council Tax discount. Learn how much it costs, who qualifies, how to apply, and the rules for single occupancy.

Council Tax is a mandatory charge on residential properties in the UK, covering services like waste collection, policing, and local infrastructure. The total amount varies by property valuation band and location, but if you live alone, you may qualify for a Single Person Discount, reducing your bill by 25%.

This guide covers how much Council Tax costs for single occupants, how to apply for a discount, eligibility rules, and what happens in special cases like having guests or owning multiple homes.

What Are the Rules for Single Occupancy Council Tax?

Single-person households are entitled to a 25% Council Tax discount.

  • You must be the only adult living in the property.

  • The discount applies to your main residence (not second homes).

  • You must inform your local council if your circumstances change (e.g., someone moves in).

Some people don’t count as an adult for Council Tax purposes, meaning you can still qualify for a discount even if you live with them. These include:

  • Full-time students

  • People under 18

  • Live-in carers (who provide at least 35 hours of unpaid care per week)

  • People with severe mental impairments

If everyone in the home falls into one of these categories, you may qualify for a full Council Tax exemption.

How Much is Single Person Council Tax?

The amount you pay depends on your Council Tax band and local authority rates.

Example Council Tax Rates for Band D (2024/25):

London (Westminster): £961 (After Single Person Discount £720)

Manchester: £2,091 (After Single Person Discount £1,568)

Birmingham: £1,872 (After Single Person Discount £1,404)

Leeds: £1,876 (After Single Person Discount £1,407)

Edinburgh: £1,428 (After Single Person Discount £1,071)

To find out your exact amount, check your local council’s website or use the Council Tax band checker on GOV.UK.

How Does the Single Person Discount Work?

  • Your Council Tax bill is reduced by 25% if you live alone.

  • The discount is applied to your main home only.

  • You must apply for the discount—it is not automatic.

If your circumstances change, you must inform your council within 21 days, or you may be fined.

How Do I Apply for the Single Person Discount?

Applying is simple:

  1. Go to your local council’s website (Find your council).

  2. Complete the online application (or request a paper form).

  3. Provide proof of single occupancy, such as utility bills or tenancy agreements.

  4. Wait for approval—this can take 2–4 weeks.

How Long Will the Discount Last?

The Single Person Discount lasts as long as:

  • You continue to live alone.

  • No other taxable adults move in.

  • Your circumstances remain the same.

If another adult moves in, you must notify your council immediately to avoid penalties.

Why Does the Single Person Discount Exist?

The Single Person Discount exists because:

  • Single residents use fewer local services than multi-person households.

  • It ensures fairer taxation for those with a lower financial burden.

  • It helps single people manage household expenses more affordably.

Am I Eligible If My Partner is in the Armed Forces?

If your partner is away on deployment, your eligibility depends on where they are registered to live:

  • If they officially live elsewhere (e.g., military accommodation), you may still qualify for the discount.

  • If your property remains their main residence, you won’t qualify.

To check your status, contact your local council.

A Friend is Coming to Stay – Do I Lose My Single Person Discount?

No—having temporary guests does not affect your discount.

  • If your friend is staying short-term (e.g., a few weeks), you keep your 25% discount.

  • If your friend moves in permanently, you must notify your council.

If the guest doesn’t pay rent and still pays Council Tax elsewhere, you should still qualify for the discount.

I Have Two Homes – Can I Apply for Single Person Discount on Both?

No—the Single Person Discount only applies to your main residence.

If you own or rent multiple properties, you must pay full Council Tax on any second home, unless:

  • The second property is empty due to work relocation.

  • The property is uninhabitable due to renovations (some councils offer temporary reductions).

  • You qualify for another Council Tax reduction (e.g., disability reduction, second home discount in certain areas).

Check with your local council to see if any exemptions apply to your second home.

Final Thoughts

  • Single-person households get a 25% Council Tax discount.

  • You must apply through your local council—it’s not automatic.

  • The discount lasts as long as you live alone and doesn’t apply to second homes.

  • Having temporary guests doesn’t remove the discount, but a permanent housemate does.

  • If your partner is in the Armed Forces or you’re unsure of eligibility, check with your local council.

For the latest Council Tax rates and discount applications, visit your local council’s website or GOV.UK.