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Council Tax Number: Understanding the Basics
Yes or No: Do you need a council tax number to pay your council tax in the UK? The answer is yes, absolutely—but don’t worry if you’re scratching your head over how to get one or even what it is. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about council tax, including how to obtain your council tax number and why it’s essential.
Council tax is a local tax collected by councils in the UK to fund services such as rubbish collection, street cleaning, libraries, schools, and social care. Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant, it’s a responsibility you can’t ignore. But before you can start paying, you need to register your property and get that all-important council tax account number.
What is Council Tax?
Council tax is essentially a charge on residential properties based on their value and location. Every property is assigned a valuation band ranging from Band A (the lowest) to Band H (the highest) in England and Scotland. For Wales, the bands run from A to I. These bands are determined by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) in England and Wales or the Scottish Assessors Association in Scotland.
Band | Value at 1 April 1991 (England) | Annual Council Tax (Example) |
A | Up to £40,000 | £1,200 |
B | £40,001 - £52,000 | £1,400 |
C | £52,001 - £68,000 | £1,600 |
D | £68,001 - £88,000 | £1,800 |
(Note: Figures for annual council tax are examples and vary by local council.)
Why Is the Council Tax Number Important?
Your council tax number is a unique identifier for your account, making it easier for your local council to track payments, update your records, and provide you with accurate bills. Without this number, paying your council tax can become complicated.
Who Needs to Pay Council Tax?
Almost everyone who lives in a residential property must pay council tax. This includes:
Homeowners: If you own the property, you’re responsible for paying the bill.
Tenants: If you rent a property, you’ll typically need to pay council tax unless the landlord has agreed to include it in your rent.
Shared Households: In some cases, all adults in a shared house may be jointly responsible for the bill.
However, there are exceptions, such as full-time students, certain low-income households, and individuals with severe mental impairments who may qualify for exemptions or discounts.
How Is Council Tax Calculated?
Council tax is calculated based on your property’s valuation band and your local council’s tax rate for that band. Each council sets its own rates annually, so the amount can vary widely depending on where you live. For instance, Band D council tax in 2023-2024 ranged from £1,312 in Westminster to over £2,300 in Nottingham.
Why Do You Need to Register for Council Tax?
When you move into a new property, registering for council tax is one of the first things you should do. Failure to register can lead to backdated bills, penalties, or even legal action. If you’re moving into a rented property, don’t assume your landlord will take care of it for you—this is typically your responsibility.
Example: Council Tax Registration Scenario
Let’s say you’ve just moved into a rented flat in Leeds. You need to inform Leeds City Council about your move, provide your move-in date, and set up your account. If you don’t, they might assume the property is unoccupied and could charge the landlord or previous tenant instead.
How to Check Your Council Tax Band
Before registering, it’s helpful to know your property’s valuation band. You can check this online using the Check Your Council Tax Band tool on the UK government website.
Registering for Council Tax for the First Time
If you’re moving into a new property, registering for council tax is non-negotiable. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, but there are specific steps to follow to ensure you receive your council tax number and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, tenant, or just switching addresses, this part will break it all down for you.
Step 1: Identify Your Local Council
Your council tax registration is managed by the local council where your property is located. The UK has over 300 local councils, each responsible for its own council tax administration. To find your local council, you can use the official Find Your Local Council tool on GOV.UK by entering your postcode.
Step 2: Gather the Required Information
To register for council tax, you’ll need to provide specific details about yourself and the property. Most councils will ask for:
Your full name
Address of the property (including postcode)
Move-in date
Contact information (email and phone number)
Whether you own or rent the property
For renters: The landlord’s name and address
If you’ve moved from another UK property, councils may also ask for:
Your previous address
The date you moved out of your old property
For new homeowners, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase, such as the completion date from your solicitor. Renters should check their tenancy agreement for the exact move-in date.
Step 3: Registering Online or By Phone
Nearly all councils allow you to register for council tax online through their official websites. Once on the website, look for sections titled “Moving Home,” “New to the Area,” or “Register for Council Tax.”
If online registration isn’t available, you can call your local council directly. They’ll walk you through the process and record your details over the phone. Be prepared for long waiting times, especially during busy periods like the start of a new financial year (April) or student move-in seasons.
Step 4: Waiting for Your Council Tax Number
Once you’ve registered, the council will process your details and assign you a council tax account number. This number will appear on your first bill, which is typically sent out by post or email within a few weeks.
Delays and What to Do About Them
Processing times vary by council, but delays are common, especially in high-demand areas. For instance, councils in cities like Manchester or Birmingham may take up to 6-8 weeks to process new registrations during peak times.
If you’re concerned about delays:
Contact your council: Call or email them to check the status of your registration.
Save for payments: Start setting aside the estimated monthly payment based on your property’s valuation band, so you’re ready to pay once the bill arrives.
Request confirmation: Ask the council for written confirmation that your registration is being processed.
What If You Don’t Have a Council Tax Number Yet?
This is a common situation for people who’ve just moved into a property but want to ensure they’re on track with their payments. Here’s what you can do:
Estimate Your PaymentsUse your property’s valuation band and your council’s tax rates to calculate an approximate monthly payment. Most councils have online calculators to make this easier.
Make a Payment Without a Reference NumberSome councils allow you to make payments without a council tax number. You’ll need to include your property address as a reference to ensure the payment is credited to the correct account.
Document Your EffortsKeep a record of all correspondence with the council. If there’s a delay in assigning your council tax number, having proof of your proactive efforts can prevent penalties.
Step 5: Managing Changes in Circumstances
Your council tax account is linked to your specific property, but life changes—moving out, switching landlords, or selling your home—can affect your registration. Here’s what to do in each case:
Moving to a New Property
When you move, you’ll need to deregister your old property and register your new one. Most councils allow you to do this online in one step. Simply provide your move-out date for the old property and move-in date for the new one.
Renting with Multiple Occupants
If you’re renting with others, clarify who’s responsible for paying council tax. For shared properties, it’s usually the lead tenant or the person whose name appears on the tenancy agreement.
Temporary Vacancies
If your property will be unoccupied for a while (e.g., between tenants), notify your council. Some councils offer discounts or exemptions for unoccupied properties.
Real-Life Example: First-Time Registration
Imagine you’ve just bought your first house in Cardiff. You know you’re in Council Tax Band C, so you check Cardiff Council’s website and see that the annual rate is £1,588 for your band. After completing the online registration form, you receive a confirmation email stating your application will be processed in 4-6 weeks. To avoid falling behind on payments, you calculate the monthly amount (£1,588 ÷ 12 = £132.33) and set it aside until your first bill arrives.
If six weeks pass without receiving your bill, you call the council and provide your confirmation email as proof of your application. They locate your account and issue your council tax number over the phone, allowing you to make your first payment immediately.
Key Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
Register early: Don’t wait until you’ve received a bill to contact the council. Register as soon as you move in.
Use online tools: Take advantage of council tax calculators and online registration forms to save time.
Stay proactive: Follow up with your council if you experience delays, and keep records of all communications.
Accessing and Understanding Your Council Tax Number
Your council tax number is the key to managing your payments and account efficiently. But what happens if you misplace it, don’t receive it, or need help tracking it down for the first time? In this part, we’ll explain the different ways you can find your council tax number and handle related challenges.
What is a Council Tax Number?
A council tax number is a unique reference assigned to your property by your local council. This number appears on all official correspondence, including your bills and payment reminders. Think of it as the “account number” for your council tax—it’s how councils identify your property and payment records.
Where to Find Your Council Tax Number
If you’ve already registered for council tax, there are several places where you can locate your number:
1. On Your Council Tax Bill
The easiest place to find your council tax number is on your bill. The number is usually displayed prominently at the top of the document under headings like:
Account Reference
Council Tax Reference
For example, a council tax number might look something like this: 12345678 or CTAX/2024/456789.
2. In Emails or Letters from the Council
If you’ve opted for paperless billing or corresponded with your council via email, check your inbox for any emails with the subject “Council Tax Bill” or “Payment Confirmation.” The council tax number is often included in these communications.
3. Through Your Online Council Account
Most councils in the UK now offer online account portals, where you can view your council tax account, make payments, and check your balance. Log in to your council’s portal (or create an account if you haven’t already) to find your council tax number.
4. By Contacting Your Local Council
If you cannot locate your number in any of the above ways, your local council can provide it. Be prepared to verify your identity by providing details such as:
Your full name
Property address
Move-in date
Previous address (if applicable)
To find the contact details for your local council, use the Find Your Local Council tool.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your Council Tax Number
It’s not uncommon for new tenants or homeowners to experience delays in receiving their council tax number, especially during busy periods. If this happens, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check If You’re Registered
First, confirm that your registration was successful. If you registered online, you should have received a confirmation email or reference number. If you applied by phone, note the date of your call and the name of the council representative you spoke to.
Step 2: Contact the Council
If several weeks have passed and you haven’t received your council tax number or bill, contact your council directly. When you call or email, include the following information:
Your name
Property address
Registration reference number (if applicable)
Move-in date
Councils like Manchester City Council and Birmingham City Council typically recommend waiting 4-6 weeks for processing, but delays can extend beyond this timeframe during peak periods.
Step 3: Start Making Payments
If you’re concerned about falling behind on payments, use your property’s valuation band and your council’s rates to estimate your monthly bill. Some councils allow payments to be made without a council tax number—just ensure you include your property address as a reference.
Example:
You’ve just moved into a Band D property in Nottingham, where the annual council tax rate is £2,150. You calculate your monthly payment as £179.17 and start setting aside or paying this amount while waiting for your council tax number.
Troubleshooting Lost Council Tax Numbers
Misplacing your council tax bill (or any correspondence containing your council tax number) can be stressful. Here’s how to resolve it:
1. Use the Council’s Online Tools
Many councils allow you to recover your account details online. You’ll typically need to enter your property address, postcode, and some personal information to retrieve your council tax number.
2. Request a Copy of Your Bill
If you’ve lost your bill, contact your council and request a copy. Some councils charge a small fee for duplicate bills, so check their policy in advance.
3. Verify Your Identity
If you’re unable to locate your number through online tools or emails, your council may require you to verify your identity over the phone or in person. Have proof of identity (passport, driver’s license) and proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement) ready.
Real-Life Example: Lost Council Tax Number
Scenario: Alex moved into a new flat in Bristol and received their council tax bill by post. After a few months, they misplaced the bill and couldn’t make their next payment.
Solution: Alex logged into Bristol City Council’s online portal and used the “Forgotten Account Details” tool. By entering their address and personal information, they were able to retrieve their council tax number within minutes.
Common Issues and Their Solutions
Issue | Solution |
I haven’t received my bill. | Contact your council to confirm registration or request a copy of the bill. |
I lost my council tax number. | Check emails, online accounts, or request your number from the council. |
My council tax bill has the wrong name. | Contact the council immediately to update the account holder’s name. |
My bill shows the wrong move-in date. | Provide proof of tenancy or purchase to correct the date. |
Pro Tip: Go Paperless
Opting for paperless billing can save you from losing important documents like your council tax bill. Most councils allow you to switch to email correspondence, making it easier to access your council tax number anytime.
Navigating Common Challenges with Council Tax
When it comes to council tax, things don’t always go smoothly. Whether it’s delays in receiving your council tax number, disputes over bills, or specific issues faced by renters, landlords, or students, there are plenty of hurdles that UK residents encounter. In this part, we’ll tackle these challenges head-on and provide practical solutions to help you manage your council tax effectively.
1. Delays in Receiving Your Council Tax Number
As discussed earlier, delays in receiving your council tax number can be frustrating, especially for those who’ve recently moved into a new property. But what causes these delays, and how can you manage them?
Common Causes of Delays
High Registration Volumes: Councils often face a backlog of registrations during peak times, such as April (new financial year) or university start dates.
Incomplete Information: Missing details in your registration, such as the exact move-in date or your landlord’s address, can slow down processing.
Technical Issues: Errors in online systems or miscommunications between departments can also result in delays.
How to Address Delays
Double-Check Your Registration: Ensure all required information has been submitted. If you applied online, log back into your account to confirm your application status.
Be Proactive: Don’t wait indefinitely—contact your council to follow up. Provide your name, address, and any reference number from your application.
Document Everything: Keep records of emails, calls, and any reference numbers to show you’ve made efforts to resolve the delay.
2. Disputes Over Council Tax Bills
Common Billing Issues
Wrong Amounts: Your bill might reflect an incorrect band or fail to apply eligible discounts.
Backdated Bills: Receiving a bill for months (or even years) of unpaid council tax can be alarming, especially if you weren’t aware you were liable.
Duplicate Bills: Occasionally, councils send bills addressed to multiple residents in a shared property, leading to confusion about who pays what.
Resolving Billing Issues
Check Your Banding: If you believe your property’s valuation band is wrong, you can appeal to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) in England and Wales or the Scottish Assessors Association. Be prepared to provide evidence, such as the sale price of similar properties in your area.
Apply for Discounts or Exemptions: Discounts are available for single occupants, students, and people with disabilities. If your bill doesn’t reflect these, contact your council to update your account.
Negotiate Backdated Bills: If you receive a backdated bill, contact your council to explain the situation. In some cases, councils may agree to a payment plan or waive penalties if you can demonstrate that the error wasn’t your fault.
3. Challenges for Renters
For renters, council tax responsibilities can vary depending on the type of property and tenancy agreement.
Who’s Responsible for Paying?
In most cases, the tenant is responsible for paying council tax. However, there are exceptions:
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs): If you live in an HMO (e.g., a shared house with individual tenancy agreements), the landlord is typically responsible for council tax.
Inclusive Rent Agreements: Some landlords include council tax in the rent, so check your tenancy agreement to avoid double payments.
Moving In and Out
Moving In: As soon as you move in, register for council tax to ensure you don’t get billed for periods before your tenancy started.
Moving Out: Notify your council of your move-out date to avoid being billed after you’ve left. Provide forwarding contact details in case of any final adjustments.
4. Challenges for Landlords
As a landlord, council tax can become a point of confusion, especially for properties with changing tenants or vacant periods.
Managing Vacant Properties
If your property is unoccupied between tenancies, you may be eligible for a vacancy discount or exemption. The rules vary by council, but many offer reduced rates for the first few months of vacancy.
HMOs and Council Tax
For HMOs, landlords are responsible for paying council tax. This includes properties where:
Tenants have separate tenancy agreements.
Communal areas are shared, but individual rooms are rented out.
5. Students and Council Tax
Do Students Need to Pay?
Full-time students are exempt from paying council tax. However, they must prove their student status by submitting a Certificate of Student Status, available from their university or college, to their local council.
Mixed Households
If a student lives with non-students, the household may still qualify for a 25% discount, as the student is not counted when calculating council tax liability.
Example: Student Exemption
Emily, a full-time student in Birmingham, moves into a flat with three non-students. She provides her council with proof of her student status, which reduces the household’s council tax bill by 25%.
6. Other Common Issues
Disputes Over Responsibility
In shared households, disputes can arise over who’s responsible for council tax payments. To avoid this, clarify responsibility in writing (e.g., in a tenancy agreement).
Enforcement Notices and Penalties
Failing to pay council tax can result in enforcement action, including court summons or visits from enforcement agents (bailiffs). To prevent this:
Always respond to letters or reminders from the council.
Contact your council to negotiate a payment plan if you’re struggling financially.
Real-Life Example: Navigating a Council Tax Dispute
Scenario: Tom rented a property in Leeds but didn’t realize he needed to register for council tax. Six months later, he received a backdated bill totaling £1,200.
Solution: Tom contacted Leeds City Council and explained the situation. He provided proof of his move-in date and agreed to a monthly payment plan to clear the debt over 12 months. By staying proactive, he avoided additional penalties.
Key Tips for Navigating Challenges
Challenge | Solution |
Delays in receiving your tax number | Contact your council; document correspondence; make estimated payments if possible. |
Disputes over valuation bands | Appeal to the Valuation Office Agency with supporting evidence. |
Renters unsure about responsibility | Check your tenancy agreement; contact your landlord or council for clarification. |
Students needing exemption | Submit a Certificate of Student Status to your council promptly. |
Vacant property issues for landlords | Apply for vacancy discounts or exemptions from your local council. |
Tips, Discounts, and Resources for Managing Council Tax
Managing council tax effectively doesn’t just mean paying your bills on time—it’s also about ensuring you’re taking advantage of every discount or exemption available to you. In this final part, we’ll cover practical tips, lesser-known savings opportunities, and useful tools to help UK residents optimize their council tax payments.
1. Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions
Single Person Discount
If you’re the only adult living in your property, you’re entitled to a 25% discount on your council tax bill. This is one of the most commonly claimed discounts and applies regardless of your income or property value.
Example: Sam lives alone in a Band C property in Sheffield, where the annual council tax for that band is £1,700. By applying for the single person discount, Sam reduces their bill by 25% to £1,275.
Student Exemption
Full-time students don’t need to pay council tax, but they must provide proof of their student status to their local council. If you live in a household with non-students, the property may qualify for a 25% discount instead.
Severe Mental Impairment (SMI) Exemption
Individuals diagnosed with severe mental impairments, such as dementia, are exempt from council tax if they meet certain criteria. To qualify, you’ll need:
A doctor’s certification.
Proof of eligibility for certain benefits (e.g., Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment).
Disability Reduction Scheme
If your home has been adapted for someone with a disability (e.g., a wheelchair ramp, widened doorways, or an additional bathroom), you may qualify for a reduction in your council tax band. This could lower your bill significantly.
2. Unoccupied Property Discounts and Exemptions
Empty Properties
Some councils offer discounts or exemptions for unoccupied properties. For example:
Short-Term Vacancy: A discount may apply if the property is empty for less than six months.
Uninhabitable Homes: If your property is undergoing major repairs, you may be eligible for an exemption or reduced rate.
Second Homes
Second homes are usually charged full council tax, but some councils may offer discounts in certain circumstances, such as properties used by seasonal workers or holiday lets.
3. Payment Tips and Budgeting
Spread Your Payments
Council tax bills are typically divided into 10 monthly installments, with a break during February and March. However, you can request to spread your payments over 12 months to reduce the monthly amount.
Example: If your annual bill is £2,400, paying over 10 months would cost £240 per month. Opting for 12 installments reduces it to £200 per month, easing your cash flow.
Pay by Direct Debit
Setting up a direct debit is the simplest way to ensure your payments are made on time. Many councils offer flexible payment dates, allowing you to choose when payments are deducted.
Budgeting for Backdated Bills
If you receive a backdated bill, don’t panic. Contact your council to set up a payment plan. Most councils are willing to negotiate affordable installments to clear outstanding debts.
4. Appealing Your Council Tax Band
When Should You Appeal?
If you believe your property is in the wrong valuation band, you can appeal to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Grounds for appeal include:
Similar properties in your area are in lower bands.
Structural changes to your home that reduce its value.
Significant changes in your local area, such as new infrastructure projects.
How to Appeal
Check your property’s current band using the Council Tax Band Checker.
Compare your band with similar properties in your area.
Submit an appeal to the VOA, providing evidence to support your claim.
5. Useful Tools and Resources
Online Council Tax Calculators
Most councils have online tools to help you estimate your annual bill. These calculators factor in your property’s valuation band, local rates, and any applicable discounts.
Council Tax Portals
Many councils offer online portals where you can:
View your account details.
Check your balance.
Make payments or set up direct debits.
Apply for discounts or exemptions.
Government Resources
For official guidance on council tax, visit:
Appeal Your Council Tax Band
Council Tax Reduction (Low Income)
6. Frequently Overlooked Opportunities to Save
Council Tax Reduction (CTR)
Low-income households may qualify for Council Tax Reduction (CTR), which can lower your bill significantly. Eligibility depends on your income, savings, and household composition.
Example: A single parent earning £18,000 per year in London may qualify for a 50% reduction in council tax through CTR.
Discounts for Care Leavers
Some councils offer discounts or exemptions for young people leaving care, up to a certain age (e.g., 21 or 25).
Green Incentives
Certain councils offer reduced rates for energy-efficient homes. For instance, properties with high energy performance certificate (EPC) ratings may qualify for small discounts.
7. Real-Life Example: Saving on Council Tax
Scenario: Sarah and John, a couple living in a Band E property in Bristol, receive an annual council tax bill of £2,400. John is registered as severely mentally impaired, and the property has been adapted for his needs.
Solution: Sarah applies for the Disability Reduction Scheme, which lowers the property’s band to D, reducing their annual bill to £2,100. She also submits proof of John’s condition, securing a full exemption for him. Their final bill is reduced by 25% (single person discount), bringing it down to £1,575—a total savings of £825.
Final Tips for Managing Council Tax
Action | Why It’s Important |
Register promptly | Avoid penalties and backdated bills. |
Apply for discounts and exemptions | Reduce your financial burden by claiming what you’re eligible for. |
Set up direct debits | Simplify payments and avoid missing deadlines. |
Use online portals | Access your account, bills, and payment history anytime. |
Stay informed | Regularly check your council’s website for updates on rates and new discounts. |
This wraps up the ultimate guide to How to Get a Council Tax Number in the UK. With this comprehensive understanding of council tax registration, troubleshooting, and savings, you’re now equipped to navigate the process confidently and ensure you’re not paying more than you need to. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, landlord, or student, being proactive and informed can save you both time and money.
Summary: How to Get a Council Tax Number
Council tax is a local tax required for most residential properties to fund essential services like waste collection and schools.
You must register for council tax with your local council as soon as you move into a new property.
Council tax account numbers are unique to each property and appear on bills, emails, or your council’s online portal.
Failure to register promptly can result in backdated bills and potential penalties from your local council.
You can contact your local council by phone, online, or in person if you encounter delays or lose your account number.
Tenants, homeowners, and landlords have different responsibilities for council tax, depending on property use and tenancy agreements.
Discounts are available for single occupants, students, and individuals with disabilities to reduce the overall council tax bill.
Exemptions apply to full-time students and certain unoccupied or uninhabitable properties under specific conditions.
Appealing your property’s valuation band is possible if you believe it’s incorrectly assessed, potentially lowering your council tax.
Using online tools, direct debits, and council tax reduction schemes helps manage payments efficiently and avoid financial stress.
FAQs
Q1. Can you register for council tax if you don’t yet have proof of your move-in date?
Yes, most councils allow you to register without immediate proof of your move-in date, but they may request supporting documents, such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill, later during the verification process.
Q2. Is it possible to register for council tax before moving into a property?
No, you can only register for council tax once you’ve officially moved into the property, as the council requires an exact move-in date to create your account.
Q3. Can you transfer your council tax account number to a new property if you move?
No, council tax account numbers are specific to each property, so you’ll need to register for council tax at your new address and receive a new account number.
Q4. What happens if you don’t register for council tax immediately after moving in?
Failure to register promptly can result in backdated bills and potential penalties, as councils may assume liability from your move-in date regardless of when you register.
Q5. Can you register for council tax online if your local council doesn’t have an online portal?
If your council doesn’t offer an online registration portal, you’ll need to contact them by phone or visit their offices in person to register.
Q6. Do you need a National Insurance number to register for council tax in the UK?
No, a National Insurance number is not typically required to register for council tax, though some councils may request it as an additional form of identification.
Q7. Can non-UK residents get a council tax number for a property they own in the UK?
Yes, non-UK residents are required to register and pay council tax for properties they own in the UK, and they will be assigned a council tax number.
Q8. Are council tax numbers unique for individuals or properties?
Council tax numbers are unique to each property, not the individual, and a new number is generated when a new account is created for a property.
Q9. Can you set up a direct debit to pay council tax before receiving your council tax number?
No, you need your council tax number to set up a direct debit, as the number is required to link the payment to your account.
Q10. Can your council tax number change if you challenge your property’s valuation band?
No, your council tax number remains the same even if your property’s valuation band is successfully challenged and changed.
Q11. Can you register for council tax on behalf of someone else?
Yes, you can register on behalf of another person if you have their permission and all the required details, such as the move-in date and property address.
Q12. How do councils handle council tax registration for multiple occupants in one property?
For properties with multiple occupants, councils usually send one bill to the “liable person,” who is legally responsible for ensuring payments are made.
Q13. Is council tax registration different for businesses operating from residential properties?
Yes, if a part of your residential property is used for business, you may need to pay both council tax and business rates, depending on the extent of the business use.
Q14. Can you register for council tax without providing a forwarding address from your previous property?
Yes, you can register for council tax at your new property without providing a forwarding address, though some councils may request additional details for administrative purposes.
Q15. Can you claim back overpaid council tax if your registration details were incorrect?
Yes, you can request a refund for overpaid council tax if you provide evidence that the registration details, such as your move-in or move-out date, were incorrect.
Q16. What should you do if you receive council tax bills for a property you no longer live in?
You should contact your previous council immediately, provide evidence of your move-out date, and request the account be closed or updated.
Q17. Can you register for council tax for a property that is still under renovation?
Yes, you need to register for council tax even if the property is under renovation, though you may qualify for a discount or exemption if it’s uninhabitable.
Q18. Do councils automatically register new property buyers or tenants for council tax?
No, it is the responsibility of the new property buyer or tenant to register for council tax; councils do not register people automatically.
Q19. Can you update your council tax account details (e.g., name or contact information) online?
Many councils allow account updates online, but if this service is unavailable, you’ll need to contact the council directly to make changes.
Q20. What happens if the previous owner or tenant hasn’t deregistered from council tax?
If the previous owner or tenant hasn’t deregistered, the council will update their records based on your registration and move-in date, ensuring you’re not liable for their bills.
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