Yes — Newham has several council tax discounts and reductions available, depending on your circumstances. The main ones are a single person discount, disabled band reduction, council tax reduction, discounts for disregarded people such as students, and discounts for empty or second properties.
| Discount / reduction | Who may qualify | Amount / effect | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single person discount | You are the only adult resident in your home | 25% off your council tax | apply online |
| Disabled band reduction scheme | At least one resident is substantially and permanently disabled, and the home has certain disability-related features | Council tax can be reduced by one band; even Band A may qualify | Call 020 8430 2000 and ask for a claim form |
| Council Tax Reduction (CTR) | Residents who meet the rules for CTR | From 1st April 2026, working-age adults can get up to 70% off; pensioners can get reduction on the whole bill | make a claim |
| Disregarded people / student disregard | Certain people are disregarded for council tax, including full-time students, student nurses, trainees/apprentices, and some dependants of students | If everyone in the property is disregarded, you still pay council tax but get 50% off | apply for a student disregard online |
| Empty and unfurnished property | A property that has just become empty and unfurnished | 100% discount for one month from the date it first became empty and unfurnished | contact form |
| Second home / between lets | Furnished second homes or between lets, if the property is needed as part of your job | 50% discount | contact form |
Newham also notes that if you’re not eligible for a discount or exemption but are struggling to pay, you may be able to get Council Tax Reduction. If you want, I can also summarise the eligibility rules for each discount in plain English.