Interesting - Council Tax help for Dementia

roy_harper

I just didn't know about this, and thought it might help others, that you can apply for help with Council Tax if you or someone living with you has dementia.

http://www.dementiaweb.org.uk/money-you-can-get-to-help.php

Sorry I don't know how to do the technical bit to make the link work.

kingfisherblue

I didn't know about this - my dad had dementia and it would have been very helpful for my mum. I echo the OP in their hope that it helps other posters.

CIS

It omits one key point - Before the relevant discount/exemption can be awarded a medical professional has to certify that the person has a severe impairment of intelligence and social function (however caused) which appears to be permanent.

Indie_Kid

CIS wrote: »

It omits one key point - Before the relevant discount/exemption can be awarded a medical professional has to certify that the person has a severe impairment of intelligence and social function (however caused) which appears to be permanent.

Isn't there something about DLA? Or is that irrelevant?

CIS

The person also has to be in receipt of one (or more) qualifying benefits - the link alludes to this but misses out the bit I gave above.

shjo558

A person is regarded as severely mentally impaired if, for whatever reason, they have severe and permanent impairment of intelligence and social functioning.

To qualify

A doctor must confirm that the person has a permanent mental illness. They must also be entitled to (though not necessarily receiving) one of the following benefits:

Incapacity benefit;
Attendance allowance;
Constant attendance allowance;
Severe disablement allowance;
Disability living allowance (higher or middle rate care component);
Disabled person tax credit;
Income support (if applicable amount includes disability premium);
An unemployability allowance or supplement.

CIS

A doctor must confirm that the person has a permanent mental illness

It doesn't have to be a Dr but it does have to be a registered medical practitioner.

It also doesn't have to be permanent - it only has to appear to be so at the time of the medical practioner certifying it.