Property > Expenses
Council Tax
In This Article
What Is Council Tax?
Your local authority collects council tax to pay for services they provide in your community, e.g. road maintenance, rubbish collection, police services etc. Payment amounts will vary from property to property and will usually be split into 10 monthly instalments, followed by two months where no payments are due.
Who Is Required to Pay Council Tax?
Council tax usually applies to those aged 18 or over who own or rent a home. A council tax bill is based on at least two adults living in a home – but you can apply for a 25% discount if you live on your own. In addition, some individuals are exempt, e.g. if you’re a full-time student at university, and therefore discounts may be applied in these circumstances.
If you think you might be eligible for a discount, more details can be found on gov.uk.
How Much Will You Pay?
Your bill will depend on three factors:
- Council Tax Band
- Local Council Charges
Your charges are not only dependent on property valuation but also location. Local authorities determine how much is charged for each band.
- Exceptions
As mentioned above, discounts are available to certain individuals. These are largely based on age and your education status. Council tax reductions may also be applied to those with low income or receiving benefits.
How Do You Pay?
You will receive your council tax bill each year in April, providing details about the amount and dates you have to pay. You can pay in a lump sum or over 10 monthly instalments. Some local authorities will allow you to spread payments over a full year if you have financial difficulty. You can pay your bill through a range of methods such as direct debit, cash, cheque, or over the phone.
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