Council Tax is a local tax, set by each local council, to help pay for local services.
The Council Tax section deals with the levy and collection of council Tax in accordance with the Local Government Finance Act 1992 and subsequent legislation. This includes:
- issuing bills
- reminders
- summonses
It deals with:
- changes of address
- discounts
- exemptions
- reductions for the disabled
The tax has two parts, 50 percent property and 50 percent personal based on two adults occupying the property. This can be reduced to 25 percent if there is only one adult by applying for Single Occupancy Discount.
The amount you pay depends on the banding of your property which is shown in Council Tax bands and charges 2008-2009
You can:
- pay online;
- tell us online if you are moving in or out;
- download forms and leaflets;
- use the Quickcalc on the Benefit Service pages to see if you are eligible to claim Council Tax Benefit; and
- download the form to claim if you think you will get help.
If you are having difficulty in paying your Council Tax bill, you should check if you are entitled to any reduction, such as:
- sole occupier discount if you are the only adult in your home;
- student exemption;
- exemption for severe mental impairment for a member of your household; or
- reduction for disability scheme.
Details of all discounts and exemption are shown in the list Council Tax forms and leaflets
Each property is placed within bands A to H depending on the valuation given by the Valuation Office Agency on 1 April 1991 and are shown in Council Tax bands and charges 2008-2009
