Lone Pensioner Allowance – 20% off your rates in Northern Ireland at 70+

If you are 70 or over and live alone in Northern Ireland, you may get 20% off your rates. It is not means tested. You can apply at any time during the rating year.

Deadline: No fixed deadline
Last checked: Checked against the official source: 20 October 2026

What if you miss the deadline? There is no fixed deadline in the rating year, but you keep paying the full bill until your application is decided.

Northern Ireland has domestic rates instead of Council Tax. The Lone Pensioner Allowance gives a 20% discount on rates to homeowners and tenants aged 70 and over who live alone. There are some exceptions if you do not live alone, for example if you live with a carer who is not your partner.

How to do it

Check that you are 70 or over and live alone, or that one of the exceptions applies to you.
If you own your home, apply to Land & Property Services (LPS) with the LPA application form. Have your National Insurance number ready.
If you are a tenant, apply through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
Keep paying your rate bill until LPS decides. If you are entitled, LPS refunds or credits what you overpaid.

Common questions

Is the Lone Pensioner Allowance means tested?

No. It does not depend on your income or savings.

Can I get it with other help with rates?

Yes. You can get it together with Disabled Person's Allowance and Housing Benefit or Rate Relief. You apply for each one separately.

Official source: nidirect.gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

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This information is not legal or tax advice.