The Council Tax Reduction (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2025
Summary
The Council Tax Reduction (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2025 (SSI 2025/18) were laid before the Scottish Parliament on 2 February 2025 and came into force on 3 February 2025.
These regulations make amendments to the Council Tax Reduction (Scotland) Regulations 2013 (SSI 2013/437) and the Council Tax Reduction (Discretionary Payments) (Scotland) Regulations 2013 (SSI 2013/438) and are intended to amend the existing mandatory and discretionary Council Tax Reduction scheme in Scotland.
Key Changes
- Extension of the qualifying period for income-related Council Tax Reduction from 6 to 9 months: This measure will allow people to qualify for Council Tax Reduction for a longer period of time, providing financial support for a greater number of households.
- Extension of the time limit for making applications for discretionary Council Tax Reduction from 6 to 9 months: This amendment will give people more time to apply for discretionary Council Tax Reduction, ensuring they have ample opportunity to access support when they need it.
- Inclusion of certain non-domestic rates payers within the eligibility criteria for discretionary Council Tax Reduction: This measure will extend the eligibility for discretionary Council Tax Reduction to certain non-domestic rates payers, such as charities and community groups, who may be struggling to pay their rates.
- Removal of under-occupancy charge for young people aged 18-24: This change will exempt young people aged 18-24 from the under-occupancy charge, reducing the financial burden on this vulnerable group.
- Introduction of a new exemption from the under-occupancy charge for households with a severely mentally impaired person: This exemption will provide financial support to households caring for a severely mentally impaired person.
Impact
The Council Tax Reduction (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2025 are expected to have a positive impact on low-income households and vulnerable groups in Scotland. By extending the qualifying period and time limit for applications, and expanding the eligibility criteria, more people will be able to access financial support to help them pay their Council Tax. The changes to the under-occupancy charge will also benefit young people and households caring for severely mentally impaired persons.
Conclusion
These regulations represent an important step in the Scottish Government’s commitment to providing financial support to low-income households and vulnerable groups. By making it easier for people to access Council Tax Reduction and reducing the financial burden on certain groups, these changes will help to ensure that everyone in Scotland has a safe and affordable place to live.
The Council Tax Reduction (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2025
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