Alternative Maximum Council Tax Benefit (Second adult rebate)

Another type of council tax benefit is alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate). This is help with your council tax bill, if you do not have a partner or the partner is not counted for council tax purposes. There must be other adults classed as non-dependants, aged over 18 living with you that prevent you from receiving a discount. 

Can I claim alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate?)

If other people who share your home fall under any of the following categories, then you may be eligible to claim alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate):

If they are:

• aged over 18
• not your partner
• not paying you rent as a boarder or sub tenant
• not liable to pay council tax themselves
• not a joint owner

Alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate) is based on the circumstances and income of people who share your home. Your income and savings will not be taken into account when calculating alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate).
If you are entitled to council tax benefit and alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate) we will pay the one which gives you the most money. This is called a betterbuy calculation.

How much will I get?

After the weekly income of the second adult has been calculated, you can receive as much as a 25%, 15% or a 7.5% reduction off your council tax bill. 

How do I claim?

• To claim alternative maximum council tax benefit (second adult rebate) you will need to complete an application form and provide proof of the second adult's income.
• Your claim will normally start on the Monday following the date your application form is received by the benefits office, although there are exceptions depending on the reasons why you could not claim earlier.
• Please remember to answer all the questions and make sure that you sign the declaration on the form.
• Application forms that are not signed or fully completed will be returned to you for completion, which could delay your claim.
  

You can download and print an application form from our Related Downloads section.

Please complete and return this form to the address on the left hand side of this page.

How is this paid?

Any award is credited directly to your council tax account.

Last updated 04/04/2012