Discounts and exemptions for Severely Mentally Impaired (SMI) people

A person is Severely Mentally Impaired if they suffer from permanent severe mental impairment of intelligence or social functioning.

A doctor must certify them as severely mentally impaired. They must be entitled to one of the following benefits:

  • Personal independence payment
  • Incapacity Benefit short term or long-term rate
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Severe Disablement Allowance
  • An increase in Disablement Allowance where they need constant attendance
  • Disability Living Allowance high or middle rate (care component)
  • Working Tax Credit (disability element)
  • An Unemployability supplement.
  • Constant Attendance Allowance/ Unemployability allowance payable under the industrial injuries or war pension schemes.
  • Income support including a disability premium because of incapacity for work
  • Universal Credit if you have limited capability for work and work-related activity

The property will be exempt if all residents meet the above criteria. If any occupants do not qualify, there may be a discount.

Supporting documents

You will need to provide:

  • an award letter showing you receive one of the eligible benefits
  • a signed and stamped doctor's certificate confirming the condition is permanent. This is included with the application form below.

Apply for a discount or exemption for severely mentally impaired people

To apply for the discount you will need to:

  • Download and complete the application form
  • Scan the application form using a scanner or phone camera
  • Attach the form and supporting documents to the evidence form.