Grand daughter aged 19 moved in with me. She claims PIP

Aarajake1

I currently receive UC and LCWRA as well as HB. My grand daughter aged 19 has just come to live with me. I let Council Tax know and in no time they have sent me a revised bill which is much higher. Does my grand daughter have to contribute to the council tax even though she receives PIP. Also will my housing element be affected.

poppy123456

Is she a full time student? If so then she will be disregarded for council tax purposes but you’ll need to send proof that she’s a student when she returns in September. During summer holidays some local Authorities do not apply the disregard and alll local authorities have their own rules.

As you’re claiming UC then rent will be through this and not housing benefit, unless you’re either living in supported or temporary housing.

There will be no non dependent deductions because she’s under 21. If there’s current a shortfall of rent then you’ll be entitled to more housing element with her living with you. Are you living in social housing or privately rented?

Albus_Scope

Hi @Aarajake1 that's one I'll have to look up online as I don't know a huge amount about council tax.
Was it just you living in the house before your granddaughter moved in? Previously you would've been entitled to the 25% single persons discount.

There's lots of information here regarding how a disability can affect your council tax, so it's well worth a read.

Aarajake1

yes it was just me, and I was receiving a reduction.

Aarajake1

I am in council accommodation and £89 of my mthly rent amount was not paid because I had an extra bedroom

poppy123456

Then you will need to log into your journal if you have access to one and report a change of circumstances. Then click children and other people that live with you and you’ll be entitled to extra housing element.

You didn’t answer my question, is she a full time student?

Aarajake1

No she's looking for work

Aarajake1

No she's looking for work

Aarajake1

Will she have to contribute to the council tax bill as it is much higher since she moved in

poppy123456

As she's not a student and isn't currently working has she claimed UC? If she has and her health condition limits her capability to work then she should report that and provide a fit note. This will start the work capability assessment process off.

If her PIP includes the daily living part you can claim carers discount for council tax. This would mean 25% deduction, just like it was when you were living alone. You do not need to claim carers allowance to be entitled to this. See link.

https://www.turn2us.org.uk/get-support/information-for-your-situation/council-tax-discounts/carers

You will need to speak to your local Authority and ask about claiming that. Outside of that, all LAs have their own rules so I won't be able to tell you how much you should or shouldn't be paying.

Aarajake1

My grand daughter has only ever worked P/T (under 16hrs a week) due to her condition and has never stayed in a job for longer than 6mths. She has autism. Thank you your advice has been so helpful.