Answers · UK 2025/26
How much council tax support can a pensioner on a low income get in 2026/27?
Up to 100% of your council tax bill can be covered by Council Tax Reduction if you are over State Pension age and on a low income. Unlike working-age schemes, pension-age Council Tax Reduction is set nationally and can wipe out the whole bill, worth around GBP 2,280 a year on a Band D charge.
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Council Tax Reduction (CTR) for people over State Pension age uses national rules, so it is more generous than most working-age local schemes. A single pensioner whose only income is the full new State Pension of GBP 241.30 a week (GBP 12,548 a year) typically has income at or below the 'applicable amount' the rules use, so they can receive up to 100% support. Worked example: a single pensioner in a Band D home where the average bill is about GBP 2,280 for 2026/27, living alone and on State Pension only, could pay GBP 0 once both the 25% single-person discount and full CTR are applied. If they had modest savings, capital between GBP 10,000 and GBP 16,000 reduces the award (GBP 1 of income assumed per GBP 500 above GBP 10,000), and over GBP 16,000 usually rules out CTR unless you get Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, which passports you to full support. Getting Pension Credit also unlocks other help, so it is worth checking eligibility even for a small award. CTR is claimed from your local council, not HMRC, and is separate from the single-person discount. Use the Council Tax calculator to estimate your Band D bill before discounts, then apply for CTR through your council. Check your exact entitlement and apply at gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.