Second Adult Rebate

Second Adult Rebate is a benefit for people who are solely liable for Council Tax, but do not get a single person discount because there are other adults living in the property. A partner cannot be classed as a Second Adult for the purpose of this benefit. It is another way to help people pay less Council Tax but it is not based on the liable person's income - Second Adult Rebate is calculated on the incomes of other adults who live in the property.

What is Second Adult Rebate?

Second Adult Rebate (or Alternative Maximum Council Tax Benefit as it is sometimes know) is part of the Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit scheme administered by councils on behalf of the Government.

Who cannot claim Second Adult Rebate?

• A single person who is liable for Council Tax and has a border or sub-tenant living in the property
• A couple - if neither partner is disregarded for Council Tax purposes.
• Joint owner or tenant living in the property

If jointly liable for Council Tax are there any circumstances in which an application can be made?

A person cannot usually claim Second Adult Rebate when jointly liable for Council Tax with someone else. However, where that person is not counted for Council Tax purposes, a claim may be made. Some of the people not counted for Council Tax purposes are:

• Aged under 18
• Severely mentally impaired and receiving certain qualifying benefits
• Aged 18 and over but Child Benefit is still being paid for them
• Most full-time students and YTS trainees
• Student nurses
• Patients in hospital and people in homes
• People living in hostels and night shelters
• Care workers and members of religious communities
• People in prison

How to apply

The person liable for the Council Tax bill and not the Second Adult(s) must complete an application form giving details of and proof of their National Insurance number and identity (and that of their partner's if they have one, and that partner is disregarded for Council Tax purposes). Details of the second adult(s) including proof of income and capital must also be provided.

Where a person liable for the Council Tax bill puts in a claim for Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Benefit on their own behalf, then we automatically calculate both Council Tax Benefit and Second Adult Rebate and pay whichever is the highest.

From what date will Second Adult Rebate start?

Second Adult Rebate will normally be paid from the Monday following the date the application form is received by the Council.

Backdating of the claim can be considered for up to 52 weeks before the date if continuous good cause can be shown for not making an earlier claim. The request for backdated Second Adult Rebate must be made in writing giving reasons for the delay in applying and providing details and proof of the income and capital of the second adult(s) for the period concerned.

How will Second Adult Rebate be paid?

Second Adult Rebate is paid directly onto the Council Tax account. A notification letter advising of the amount of entitlement and a revised Council Tax bill will be issued to the person who applied (the person liable for the Council Tax bill)