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Council Tax
What is Council Tax?
Council Tax is a system of local taxation collected by local authorities. It is tax on the property where you live. Generally, the bigger the property is, the more tax will be charged. Some properties are exempt from paying council tax.
What is Council Tax used for?
Council Tax pays for many of the day-to- day services you use including schools, police service, fire and rescue service, roads, leisure centres, libraries, rubbish collection and recycling.
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Who has to pay Council Tax?
Usually the person living in the property will have to pay the council tax. This person is called ‘the liable person’ and must aged 18 or over. Couples living together will both be liable, this applies whether the couple is married, cohabiting or in a civil partnership. People who jointly share the property will also be jointly liable.
There are exceptions where the non- resident owner will be liable, for example, where a property is a house in multiple occupation and no one person is responsible for paying full amount of rent.
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Can I claim a discount?
There are many types of discount available. You may qualify for discount if you: - live alone
- are a student
- are a carer
- are an apprentice or trainee
- are in a nursing home or hospital
- are classed as severely mentally impaired
- are a member of a religious community
- are a member of visiting armed force are a prisoner
Exemptions can also be claimed for property that is unoccupied or occupied by people under the age of 18.
What about disabled people?
If someone in your household is disabled and your property has a second kitchen or a second bathroom, or space within it for a wheelchair, or a room set aside to meet the needs of the disabled person, you may be entitled to claim a discount.
How can I pay my Council Tax?
Payments are due monthly. We send you a bill when you move into your property and again at the start of each financial year that shows when your monthly payments are due.
What about people on low incomes?
There is system for claiming Council Tax benefit if you are have a low income.
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