What happens to Council Tax when my child turns 16+?
Last updated: 31/03/2022
You may get a Council Tax Discount and a Council Tax Reduction to reduce the amount of Council Tax you need to pay. You may get both at the same time.
Only adult 25% Council Tax Discount
You may get a 25% discount in your Council Tax because you are the only adult who is counted for Council Tax in your house.
You will continue to get the only adult 25% discount when:
- your child is 16 or 17 even if they are working or getting benefits
- your child is 18 and you get Child Benefit for them
- your child is a full-time student or on a government training scheme
You may lose the 25% discount if:
- your child is 18 or over, depending on their circumstances
Check with your local council for further details and exceptions to these general rules. Also contact the council to report changes in your circumstances.
Council Tax Reduction
You may pay a reduced amount of Council Tax if you have a low income.
You will continue to get this Council Tax Reduction when:
- your child is 16 or 17 years old
- you child is 18 and you still get Child Benefit for them
- your child is a full-time student or on a government training scheme
You may have to pay more Council Tax if:
- your child is 18 or over. How much more Council Tax you need to pay will depend on your child’s income.
Check with your local council for further details and exceptions to these general rules. Also contact the council to report changes in your circumstances.
