Severely Mentally Impaired Discount

Frequently Asked Questions

The full council tax bill assumes that there are 2 adults residing in a dwelling. However, for council tax purposes certain people will not be counted when looking at the number of adults.

• How is Severely Mentally Impaired defined?
• What does this mean in practical terms?
• What if the person I am applying for is not in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits?
• How do I apply?
• For how long will the discount be allowed?
• Who to contact?

How is Severely Mentally Impaired defined?

For the purposes of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 a person is Severely Mentally Impaired if he/she has a severe impairment of intelligence and social functioning (however caused) which appears to be permanent.

What does this mean in practical terms?

A person will be disregarded on the grounds of being Severely Mentally Impaired if he or she is entitled to one of the following benefits;

• Incapacity Benefit
• Severe Disablement Allowance or Invalidity Pension
• Unemployability Supplement or Unemployability Allowance
• Attendance Allowance or Constant Attendance Allowance
• Higher or Middle Rate of the care component of a Disability Living Allowance
• Disability Working Allowance
• An increase in the rate of Disablement Pension
• Income Support where the applicable amount includes a Disability Premium.

and

• He/she is confirmed as being Severely Mentally Impaired by a registered medical practitioner.

What if the person I am applying for is not in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits?

If you would like more information about any benefit contact the Department for Work and Pensions before applying for a discount.

How do I apply?

Complete the Council Tax Discount Form 539.09 KB Once it has been assessed you will be notified of our decision.

For how long will the discount be allowed?

For as long as there are less than two adults in the property who are not disregarded. If there is any change in circumstances then you must notify us. Failure to do so may result in a penalty being imposed.

Who to contact

If you live in Ashton or Mossley:
0161 342 2015 0161342 2012 Send a Message to Ashton/Mossley Council Tax Team

If you live in Denton or Dukinfield:
 0161342 2099 0161 342 2012 Send a Message to Denton/Dukinfield Council Tax Team

If you live in Audenshaw, Hyde or Longdendale:
 0161 342 2065 0161342 2012 Send a Message to Audenshaw/Hyde/Longdendale Council Tax Team

If you live in Droylsden or Stalybridge:
 0161 342 2080 0161342 2012 Send a Message to Droylsden/Stalybridge Council Tax Team