Council Tax Benefit

Council Tax Benefits is a national welfare benefit, which helps people on a low income pay their council tax.

Council Tax Benefits is a means tested benefit, which means that when we work out your benefit we have to take into account your income, savings and investments.
The composition of your household is also taken into account.
Local Councils run the Council Tax Benefit scheme using Government rules.

There are two types of Council Tax Benefit:
Main Council Tax Benefit – where the person, who has to pay the Council Tax is on a low income;
Second Adult Rebate - where someone who lives with the person, who has to pay the Council Tax is on a low income.

Council Tax Benefit can be payable on its own or along with Housing Benefit. Customers may qualify for one or both if the conditions have been met.

If you are in receipt of Housing Benefit and following a change to your circumstances you may now qualify for Council Tax Benefit you must complete the shortened Council Tax Benefit claim form. If you are wishing to make a new claim for Council Tax Benefit and no Housing Benefit is in payment, a HB1 form must be completed. Please see How do I claim? section. Our contact details can be found below, our fax number is 023 8083 4426.

For appointments and interpreter requests please contact Gateway using the details below:

Gateway
One Guildhall Square
Southampton
Hampshire
SO14 7FP

Tel: 023 8083 2166
E-mail: gateway@southampton.gov.uk
Fax: 023 8083 4349

Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday and Friday: 0830-1730
Wednesday: 0930-1730
Thursday: 0830-1900

Please note we are closed on all statutory bank holidays.