How to Set Up Council Tax

Council tax is money that helps fund local services. Your local council (the people who run your area) uses this money for things like:

• Rubbish and recycling collections
• Schools and education
• Roads and street lights
• Fire and police services

Most people living in a house, flat, or on a site in the UK have to pay council tax.

Most adults over 18 who live in a home or on a site will need to pay council tax. Usually:

• The person who lives in the home pays the council tax.
• The homeowner or the person who rents the home is responsible for paying.
• If you live alone, you may pay less council tax.
• On most sites you will need to pay council tax, but check with your site manager if you are unsure.

Council tax is different depending on:

1. Where you live: Each council has different rates.
2. Your home: Homes are put into bands, A to H. Band A is the cheapest, and Band H is the most expensive.

You can find out your council tax band here: Council Tax Band Checker.

Please note: When you get your first bill it will show you the amount for the whole year, and then further down the page it shows how much you will be paying each month towards this. 

1. Register for Council Tax

When you move into a new home, caravan, or pitch, you need to register for council tax with your local council. You can do this by:

• Calling your local council office
• Going to the council website and filling out a form

To find your local council, go here: Find Your Local Council

2. Ways to Pay Council Tax

There are a few ways you can pay:

• Direct Debit: The money comes out of your bank each month. This is the easiest way, as you don’t have to remember each month.
• Online Payment: Pay through the council website with a debit or credit card.
• Bank Transfer: Pay directly from your bank account. You can find the bank details on your council tax bill.
• By Phone: Call the council’s payment line to pay by card.
• At the Post Office: You can pay in person at the post office with cash or card.

If you are struggling to pay, you may be able to get help. Here are some discounts and support options:

• Single Person Discount: If you live alone, you get a 25% discount.
• Low Income and Benefits: If you have a low income or receive benefits, you might get a Council Tax Reduction.
• Disability Discount: If someone in your home has a disability, you may get a discount.

To apply for a discount, contact your local council. They can tell you what help is available.

If you don’t pay your council tax, you may get:

1. Reminder Letters: The council will send you letters asking for the payment.
2. Court Summons: If you still don’t pay, the council might take you to court.
3. Extra Charges: You could end up paying extra fees if you don’t keep up with payments.

If you have trouble paying, it’s important to contact your council right away. They may be able to set up a payment plan or help with other support.

If you need help understanding or paying your council tax:

• Citizens Advice – They can help you with council tax questions and discounts.
  Visit: Citizens Advice or call 0800 144 8848.

• Your Local Council – Call or visit the website of your local council to get information on council tax rates and support. You can find your local council here.