We use our discretionary powers to reduce the amount of Council Tax a care leaver is liable to pay.
A care leaver is person aged up to 21, who either:
- has been looked after by Essex County Council for at least 13 weeks since the age of 14 and who was looked after by the local authority at school leaving age or after that date
- is entitled to leaving care support from Essex County Council
Care leavers, and those in their household, need to first claim any discounts, exemptions and reductions they are eligible for. After these have been claimed, we will reduce the Council Tax liability, so that it is the same as what it would be if the care leaver did not count as an adult for Council Tax.
For example, if a care leaver joins a household with a single person discount in place, they will be given relief to make sure that their Council Tax liability does not increase.
You do not need to apply for this discount, Essex County Council will contact us directly about any care leavers eligible.
For more information see our Council Tax and care leavers policy (pdf)