Rates are Northern Ireland's version of council tax. This discount on them has no means test. Living with someone does not always rule you out: see the exceptions below.
Quick facts
- Discount
- 20% off domestic rates
- Age
- 70 or over
- Means test
- None
- Homeowners apply to
- Land & Property Services
- Tenants apply to
- Housing Executive
- Combines with
- Disabled Persons Allowance, Housing Benefit and Rate Relief
Who qualifies
"To qualify for LPA, you must be aged 70 or over and live alone. If you are eligible you can make an application at any time during the rating year."
If you are 70 or over and do not live alone, you may still get it if you:
- Live with a carer who is not your spouse or partner
- Care for someone who lives with you who is not your spouse or partner
- Live with anyone under 18
- Live with someone with a severe mental impairment such as dementia, Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, including your spouse or partner
How to apply
"Homeowners can apply for LPA through Land & Property Services (LPS)." You need your National Insurance number and a signed application form.
"Tenants can apply for LPA through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE)." Download the form, or phone 03448 920 902.
Keep paying your rates while you wait. If you are approved, LPS refunds the overpayment or credits your account.
It stacks with other rates help
"A ratepayer can be awarded LPA along with Disabled Persons Allowance and Housing Benefit/ Rate Relief." "It is not means tested so will not affect your security benefits."
If your income is low, check Housing Benefit and Rate Relief as well.
Common questions
How much is Lone Pensioner Allowance?
A 20 per cent discount on your domestic rates.
Is Lone Pensioner Allowance means tested?
No. It is not means tested, so it will not affect your social security benefits.
Can I get Lone Pensioner Allowance if someone lives with me?
Possibly, if you live with a carer who is not your partner, care for someone who is not your partner, live with someone under 18, or live with someone with a severe mental impairment such as dementia, including a partner.
How do I apply for Lone Pensioner Allowance?
Homeowners apply to Land & Property Services with the application form. Tenants apply to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
When can I apply?
At any time during the rating year, once you are eligible.
Can I get it with Rate Relief?
Yes. It can be awarded along with Disabled Persons Allowance and Housing Benefit or Rate Relief.