Council Tax

Could your property be exempt?

If all the occupants of the property are either students, severely mentally impaired or under 18, then the property is exempt and no council tax is due. The following are examples of some unoccupied properties which are also exempt:-

• unoccupied and unfurnished (maximum period of 6 months from date of last occupation).
• unoccupied following the death of a person, where no grant of confirmation has been made, or not more than 6 months has elapsed since confirmation was made.
• incapable of being lived in because of being structurally repaired (maximum Period 12 months from date of last occupation).
• unoccupied as former resident has moved to receive personal care, whether in a hospital, a home or elsewhere.

• What is Council Tax?
• Who pays Council Tax?
• Do I pay for Water and Sewerage charges?
• How much will I pay?
• Do I get a discount if I live on my own?
• Are any other discounts available?
• Do I get any reduction if I am disabled?
• Can I get any help to pay my Council Tax?
• How do I pay the amount due for Council Tax?
• What happens if I get behind with my payments?
• Can I appeal if I disagree with the Council’s decision on a discount or exemption?
• Who can I contact for help?
• A Guide to Council Tax

Who can I contact for help?

To discuss any Council Tax issues:-
Call the Local Taxation Section on 01595 744683

To find out about Council Tax Benefit:-
Call the Benefits Section on 01595 744682

To find out about Income Support, Working Families Tax Credit, Jobseekers Allowance and Disabilities Benefit:-
Call the Benefits Agency on 01595 732000

To discuss arrears of Rent or Council Tax:-
Call the Income and Recovery Section

or telephone 01595 744624 / 744622 / 744639