Discounts, exemptions and support

You may be entitled to a Council Tax discount, reduction, or full exemption, depending on your circumstances.

This can include discounts for living arrangements, exemptions for certain households, or financial support if you are on a low income.

Yes. If you are the only adult living in your home, you can get 25% off your Council Tax bill.

This is known as the Single Person Discount.

Most full‑time students do not have to pay Council Tax.

• Homes occupied only by full‑time students are usually exempt
• Halls of residence are automatically exempt

If someone in your household has been diagnosed with a severe mental impairment (SMI), you may qualify for:

• a Council Tax discount, or
• a full exemption, depending on who lives in the property

Council Tax Support helps people on a low income pay their Council Tax bill.

You may qualify whether you:

• are working or unemployed
• rent your home or own it

The amount of support you receive depends on things like:

• your income
• your savings
• any benefits you receive
• who lives with you

Yes. Some empty or unoccupied properties may be exempt from Council Tax.

This can include properties that are empty because:

• the owner has moved into a care home
• the owner is in hospital
• the property is empty following a death

Yes. If your home has been adapted for someone with a disability, you may be entitled to a Council Tax band reduction.

You may also qualify for a discount if you are:

• a Portsmouth care leaver
• living in or owning an annexe
• living in job‑related accommodation

You can quickly check whether you qualify for any Council Tax discount, exemption, or support, and apply online.

• Money off your bill: Discounts and exemptions
• Council Tax Support Scheme

These pages explain each type of help and guide you through applying online.