Consumer champion Martin Lewis has launched a scathing attack on seven London councils, accusing them of publishing dangerously misleading information about a vital council tax discount for unpaid live-in carers.
Widespread Errors Across England and Wales
The Money Saving Expert (MSE) team, founded by Lewis, conducted an investigation and found that a staggering 69 councils across England and Wales have incorrect details on their official websites. The errors concern the live-in carer council tax disregard, wrongly suggesting far fewer people qualify than the law allows.
The investigation, reported on 18 January 2026, specifically named and shamed seven London boroughs: Bromley, Barnet, Merton, Camden, Haringey, Hounslow and Waltham Forest.
The Costly Impact for Unpaid Carers
The discount in question can reduce a council tax bill by 25 per cent or even 50 per cent. For the average household, the 25 per cent reduction is typically worth around £500 a year. The rule works by 'disregarding' the carer for council tax purposes. This means if a carer lives with the person they care for, the property may be eligible for a single-person discount.
The problem stems from councils failing to update their online guidance since the rules changed in 2013. Martin Lewis issued a direct plea to carers, stating: "Unpaid carers can't trust councils' information about carers' council tax discounts. All carers who thought they weren't eligible after checking councils' websites should check again." He advised using the Carers UK help pages for accurate guidance.
Who Qualifies for the Live-in Carer Discount?
To be eligible, a carer must provide at least 35 hours of free care per week to someone in their household who is not their spouse, partner, or child under 18. The person receiving care must also be claiming one of several qualifying benefits, including:
- Attendance Allowance (lower rate)
- Disability Living Allowance (care component, middle rate)
- Personal Independence Payment (daily living component, standard or enhanced rate)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
Lewis urged those who missed out due to the incorrect information to request a backdated discount to their point of first eligibility, though he noted council rules on backdating vary.
Council Responses and Apologies
In response to the criticism, several councils have pledged immediate action. A Bromley Council spokesperson thanked Lewis for his "sharp eye" and confirmed the website had been updated. Barnet Council apologised "for the lack of clarity" and promised to rectify its web pages swiftly. Merton Council said it was "always looking for improvements" to how it informs carers.
Camden, Haringey, Hounslow, and Waltham Forest councils were contacted for comment but did not respond.
Lewis concluded by praising the nation's unpaid carers, calling them a "silent and often un-thanked backbone" that supports the NHS and care system, highlighting the significant economic value they provide.
