How To Pay Council Tax
Paying council tax can seem daunting, but by following a few steps it is quite straight-forward. The first step is to find out who your local council is. A good way to do this is by visiting your local government website and using the property or council tax reference to log in. This can generally be found in the title deeds of the property you live in.
Once you have logged into the portal, you can view your council tax statement, which includes details on how much you owe each month. It's important to ensure that you pay your council tax bill on time each month. If not your local council may charge a penalty or take action to recover the funds.
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Paying by Direct Debit
To arrange for payment of your council tax by direct debit, you will need to fill out a direct debit request form and return it to your local council. Additionally, you will need to provide your name, address, bank name and sort code, account number and the date you would like the first payment to be taken. This process can take up to 10 working days to be completed, and links your bank account directly with your council tax bill.
Making One-Off Payments Online
To make one-off payments online, you will need to log onto your local council's payment website. You will need to provide your name, address and details of your council tax bill, as well as your preferred payment method (eg debit or credit card). Once you have provided all the necessary information, you will be given an option to confirm your payment.
Paying via Telephone Banking
To pay your council tax via telephone banking, you must contact your banking provider and set up a one-off payment for the amount stated on your bill. They will then ask you for details of your council tax bill (eg name and correspondence address) before authorising payment.
Paying at any Post Office or PayPoint Outlet
To pay your council tax at a post office or PayPoint outlet, you must have the barcode or 13-digit payment reference number that was issued to you by your local council. Once at the counter, present this along with the exact amount that is due.
Sending a Cheque in Return Post
If you would like to send a cheque in return post for your council tax bill, make sure you include the payment slip (if received), the cheque and your account number. In order for the payment to be processed, make sure you write the cheque using the name of your local council and post it in plenty of time before the payment deadline. Allow extra time for standard delivery.
If you are struggling to pay your council tax bill, consult your local council for advice as they may offer a payment plan that works for you. It is best to contact the council as soon as possible so that appropriate steps can be taken. If you disagree with how much council tax you are paying, or how it has been calculated, it is important to contact your local council for further assistance.
Tracker or Reminder Services
For those who have difficulty keeping track of payments, most local authorities now offer a tracker or reminder service. This allows all payments to be recorded, usually integrated into the local authority's software, and helps to make staying on top of payments a much simpler task. There are also third-party services available which can provide regular reminders.
Discounts for Certain People on Council Tax
Council tax is an obligatory fee that helps to pay for local services such as schools, libraries, and street lighting. Those residing in the country are liable for paying council tax unless they are exempt. Some people, however, are eligible for a discount, depending on their situations. In this article we are going to look at the various discounts for people who can prove they are in certain circumstances or communities.
Disabled People's Discount
Several individuals who can demonstrate a disability may be entitled to a discount on their council tax. The discount is applied to the property, not the person. In order to qualify for this discount, one must either:
- Be in receipt of Disability Living Allowance
- Be in receipt of Attendance Allowance
- Be in receipt of Constant Attendance Allowance (paid with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit)
- Be registered blind
Working Age People's Discount
If you live alone and are of working age, you may be able to receive a single person discount. This means that you only have to pay 80% of the full amount. To be eligible, you must be the only adult living at the address.
Discounts for Some Ex-Service Personnel
Naval, military and RAF personnel who are medically discharged from service after 01 April 1991 could also be eligible for a discount on their council tax bill. People need to prove their medical discharge with records from the Ministry of Defence.
Discounts for Carers
Carers may be eligible for a discount if they meet certain criteria. A carer is someone who looks after an ill or disabled person who does not receive care services from the local authority. To be eligible, the person being cared for must receive one of the following allowances:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (at the care component rate of at least middle rate)
- Constant Attendance Allowance paid with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
Discounts for Communities & Clusters
In some cases, entire communities or clusters of houses may be eligible for a discount if all the households in the area fulfil certain criteria. To find out if your community is entitled to any discounts, contact your local authority.