Managing Council Tax

Understand Your Council Tax Responsibility

When you move into a new property, you’re responsible for paying council tax unless the property is exempt (e.g., if you're a full-time student or live alone and qualify for a discount).

• Check for exemptions or discounts: Some people are eligible for discounts based on factors like living alone, being a full-time student, or having a disability. You can look up the council tax discounts on your local council’s website.

Find Out Which Local Council You’re Under

Your council tax is paid to your local council. To find out which one you're under:

• Look up your council online: You can search "which council is my property under" or use a postcode tool on your council’s website.

• Look on your tenancy agreement: If you're renting, your tenancy agreement may mention the local council or the council tax band.

Gather the Necessary Information

Before contacting the local council, gather all the information you might need to avoid back-and-forth calls or emails:

• Your full address: Make sure you have the exact address of your new home.

• Tenancy agreement or proof of ownership: If you rent, have your tenancy agreement ready. If you own your home, have your proof of ownership.

• Date you moved in: Make sure to know the date you moved in, as it may affect the start of your council tax responsibility.

• Names of people living in the household: This is important for discounts, exemptions, or if you share the property with others.

Contact Your Local Council to Register for Council Tax

Now you need to register with your local council to start paying council tax.

• Online registration: Many councils offer online forms where you can register for council tax. You’ll typically find this on their website. Look for options like “new tenant” or “moving into a new property.”

• Call the council: If you prefer speaking with someone, you can call the local council's tax department to register. Have your information ready so they can assist you.

• Email: If phone calls make you anxious, you might be able to handle the process via email. Many councils have an email address for council tax inquiries.

When you register, you’ll be asked for:

• Your address

• Date of move-in

• Proof of your tenancy or ownership

• Details about who lives with you (for discounts or exemptions)

Understand the Council Tax Band for Your Property

Council tax is calculated based on the "band" your property falls into. The council will tell you your property's band when you register, but you can also check it online using the council’s website.

• Council Tax Banding: Properties are assigned to bands (A-H in England) based on their estimated market value. You can check your property’s council tax band on the government website if you're unsure.

• Request the amount: The council will inform you about how much your council tax will be for the year, based on the band of your property.

Set Up a Payment Plan

Council tax is usually paid in monthly installments, but you may be able to adjust the payment schedule to fit your needs.

• Choose a payment date: Councils usually allow you to choose a payment date each month (for example, the 1st or the 15th). Pick the one that works best for you.

• Decide on the payment method: You can typically pay by:

  • Direct Debit: This is the most common and easiest way to pay. Payments are automatically deducted from your bank account.

  • Online payments: You can make payments through the council’s website.

  • Other methods: Some councils also accept payments by phone, in person at a post office, or via a payment card.

If you have difficulty with budgeting or remembering payment dates, setting up a Direct Debit is a good way to make sure you don’t miss payments.

Apply for Discounts or Exemptions (If Applicable)

If you're eligible for any discounts or exemptions, now is the time to apply for them.

• Single Person Discount: If you live alone, you may be eligible for a 25% discount.

• Student Discount: If you’re a full-time student, you may be exempt from paying council tax altogether.

• Other exemptions: There are various exemptions for specific circumstances (e.g., if someone in your home has a severe mental impairment). Check with your local council to see what’s available.

If you believe you qualify for a discount or exemption, make sure to apply right away by providing the necessary documentation (e.g., a student card or status letter, a doctor’s note for a disability, etc.).

Monitor Your Council Tax Bills

Once your council tax is set up, you should receive your first bill, typically within the month after you move in.

• Check the bill carefully: Make sure the amount on the bill matches what you were told. If something seems off (e.g., it doesn’t reflect any discounts or exemptions you applied for), contact the council to correct the issue.

• Keep track of payments: Keep a record of your payments to avoid missing any. Many councils also offer online accounts where you can monitor your balance and payments.

Follow Up if There Are Issues

If you face any problems with your council tax, don’t hesitate to reach out to the council.

• If you don't get your bill: Contact the council to make sure they have your correct contact details and that your registration was processed.

• If you think you’ve been charged incorrectly: Call or email the council to explain your situation. Provide any documentation you have, like your tenancy agreement, to show you’re not liable for the full charge.

Stay on Top of Your Payments

It’s essential to stay on top of your council tax payments to avoid fines or legal action.

• Set reminders: Set up reminders in your phone or calendar to remind you of your council tax payment due date.

• Contact the council if you have financial trouble: If you’re struggling to pay, let the council know as soon as possible. They may be able to offer a payment plan or even a temporary reduction in your payments.

Final Thoughts

Sorting out council tax when you move into a new place can feel daunting, but taking it step by step can make the process more manageable. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or accommodations if you need them, and remember, you can always contact the council if you need further support.