How do I go about getting a council tax discount?
Some people – people who live alone for example – may be entitled to a reduction on their council tax bill. Call the helpline on 020 8690 9666 for advice.
For further information about reductions and discounts on your council tax, see the reductions section.
What if I'm on a low income?
If you think you're entitled to council tax benefit, because you're in receipt of state benefits such as job seeker's allowance, or on a low income contact the enquiry service.
I have received a summons for not paying my council tax. What can I do to sort this out?
Ring us immediately on the helpline on 020 8690 9666 for advice; call in straight away and speak to a member of staff; or email us at the address at the bottom of this page.
I pay by direct debit, yet each April, when I receive my new financial year's bill, it says I have arrears. Why is this?
The amount is only showing as outstanding because the new bills were printed before the end of the financial year and before the last direct debit statements were collected. This is to give you as much notice as possible of your new installment plan. You do not need to do anything, your March installment will be collected aas normal.
Why can't I pay my monthly instalment when I get paid?
Council tax is due by the first of each month unless you opt to pay by direct debit. Therefore your payments must be with the Council by the first of every month. However, if you opt to pay by direct debit you will be given a choice of 3 payment dates and up to a maximum of 10 months over which to pay within the financial year. These dates are on the 1st, 18th and 28th of each month.
You can find out more about direct debit, and set up an online payment on the Direct Debit page.
What happens if I move out?
You must tell us when you move out of a property. Before your records can be updated you will also need to supply the following information:
- If you are a tenant we need to know the name of the owner/landlord
- If you are a tenant we need to know your tenancy end date
- If you are an owner we need to know if the property is no longer your sole and/or main residence
- If the property is empty where the furniture is being stored with proof
- If sold the name and address of the new owner
- If sold the completion date with solicitors details.
Why have you charged me council tax for a period after I had vacated the property?
You remain liable until your ownership/tenancy agreement has formally ended. However, you may be able to apply for a discount/exemption for this period subject to evidence supplied to support your request.
Why have you charged me council tax for a whole year when I only have a six month tenancy agreement?
The council tax is an annual charge which assumes the household circumstances will remain the same for the whole of the financial year. You must notify us as soon as you have an exact date that you will give up your tenancy and we will then issue a revised bill.
Why have you charged us the full amount when most of us are students (or other disregarded persons)?
We have charged you the full amount because our records show more than one person is liable to pay council tax or that we do not have the valid evidence to support your discount disregard status, such as a full time student certificate.
How is my council tax calculated?
The level of council tax is set by resolution of the council on an annual basis. The amount which must be paid is calculated daily using the banding of your property.
Why are you writing to previous occupants who no longer live here?
We are able to pursue council tax debts at a tax payer's last known address in line with legislation.