Major changes to vehicle excise duty are on the horizon for drivers across the United Kingdom, with Blue Badge holders potentially facing new costs. Starting from 1st April, vehicles registered post-April 2017 will see road tax rates rise by £5 to an annual fee of £195.
The actual cost will depend on factors such as the vehicle's registration date and the type of fuel it uses. Notably, electric vehicles (EVs), once exempt from road tax, will start incurring these charges.
For EVs hitting the road in April 2025 onwards, there will be a nominal first-year fee of £10, after which the standard rate applies. This standard rate is also applicable to EVs that were registered following April 2017.
Industry specialist Matt Fieldhouse from Mobility in Motion warns that many Blue Badge holders who've registered an EV within the last eight years must review their exemption status to avoid missing out on potential savings of £195. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here
The Daily Star reports Matt highlighted the issue: "An estimated 1.35 million disabled drivers are reliant on public charging points for their EVs or hybrid vehicles could wrongly fork out £195 in road tax this April. The introduction of this new tax for vehicles registered in the last eight years could see Blue Badge holders incorrectly paying out up to £250m in road tax across the UK."
It's crucial for UK Blue Badge holders to realise that many may not have to pay any vehicle tax at all. Per GOV.UK, exemption is possible if you're already receiving specific disability benefits.
Motorists with disabilities could be eligible for a 50 per cent discount on their vehicle tax if they're receiving the PIP standard rate mobility component or the ADP standard rate mobility component.
Blue Badge holders should note that there are specific conditions to meet in order to claim this exemption:
The Daily Record reports Matt explains the rules for this cost-saving benefit: "If you are claiming this exemption for a vehicle for the first time, this must be claimed at a Post Office that manages vehicle tax. To find your local Post Office to apply for an exemption, use the Post Office branch finder here and choose 'vehicle tax' from the menu. Alternatively, you can call the Post Office and ask for the closest branch to you that deals with vehicle tax."
If you have a physical disability or health condition that affects your ability to walk safely, or suffer from a hidden illness such as dementia, autism or Parkinson's, you may qualify for a Blue Badge to help you park closer to your destinations. A Blue Badge holder, whether driving or travelling as a passenger, can park for free in disabled parking bays and may also be exempt from other parking restrictions.
This badge permits you to park for free in certain restricted areas, including at on-street parking meters, pay and display bays, disabled parking spaces, and even on single and double yellow lines if there are no loading restrictions. .
The Blue Badge is also recognised in most countries, but if you're using it in England or Wales, you must display a parking clock, which is provided with your badge. This clock has adjustable hands to show your arrival time.
How to apply for a Blue Badge
You can submit your application online, but if you have a mental health condition, it's recommended that you contact your local council directly. The guidelines state: "If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online. You should phone your local council's Blue Badge team for a paper application form. ".
The guidelines also suggest that applicants who do not automatically qualify for the scheme may be required to undergo a mobility assessment and meet with a healthcare professional.
Please note that there is no standard processing time for new applications or renewals, but it typically takes around 12 weeks. Your local council handles Blue Badge applications, sets the fee, and can provide information on the expected processing time.
What do you need to apply?
Applications are submitted online to your local council. You'll need a recent digital photo of your head and shoulders, which you can take yourself.
In addition, you'll need to provide a photograph or scan of your identification (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence), proof of address like a Council Tax bill or government letter (or alternatively, you can opt for your local council to verify the Electoral Register), and evidence of benefits, if applicable.
You'll also need to have your National Insurance number handy and the details of your existing Blue Badge if you're reapplying. After you've submitted your application, your local council will review it and inform you of their decision.
