Remembering to set up Council Tax when you move home is an easy task to miss off your checklist but it’s an important one.
Council Tax pays for essential local services, including rubbish collection, roads and fire services. If you don’t register with your council, you could be hit with a huge surprise bill, or be taken to court over the non-payment.
This will affect your UK credit, as well as causing unnecessary stress and taking precious time to resolve.
Plus, when you set up council tax correctly you can apply for any discounts or exemptions, potentially saving you £100s.
What information do you need to set up Council Tax?
To register with your local council, you’ll need the following information:
- The full name of every occupant of the property over the age of 18
- Your property address
- Whether you own or rent the property
- The date your responsibility begins, and your moving-in date
- Whether any occupants are in full-time education
- Your contact details, including mobile and email address
- The sort code and account number of the bank account you’d like to pay from, or a credit or debit card
How to set up Council Tax
Once you’ve gathered this information, you’re ready to set up your Council Tax account.
The easiest way to do this is to visit your local Council’s website. If you’re not sure which Council is responsible for your new home, you can find out here.
Each council handles registration slightly differently, but the easiest way to inform them of your move is via their website. Every council has a dedicated section on their website for Council Tax, with a form to notify them you are moving into the area.
Once you have provided these details, your Council will issue you an opening bill. This will include a unique reference number you can use to finish setting up your online account. Also included will be your options for a payment schedule and your preferred payment method.
We recommend paying by direct debit in 10 or 12 monthly instalments. This requires a UK bank account, which means your payments will go out automatically every month.
Is UK Council Tax mandatory?
Yes – in the UK it is mandatory to register for Council Tax. Even if you are exempt from paying, for example, if everyone in the property is a full-time student, you must inform your Council of this fact or face legal action.
How can I get a Council Tax discount?
There are several ways to qualify for a discount or exemption on your Council Tax. For example, if you live alone, are a full-time student or if you or someone you live with is disabled.
To apply for these discounts or exemptions, you must first register with your Council and receive your unique reference number as we have outlined.
Then, you’ll be able to apply for the relevant discounts through your Council’s website or by phone.
Read more about who qualifies for Council Tax discounts and how to apply.
