Who Has to Pay the Council Tax?

To find out who has to pay the bill look down the list below. The first one that describes someone living in your home will be liable.

*   An owner-occupier

*   A tenant

*   A licensee

*   Someone who lives in the property

*   An owner. If the property is empty the owner pays.

Are the Residents Always Liable?

Sometimes the owner pays instead of the resident, for example:

*   Homes where the tenants have separate tenancy agreements (for example, bedsits)

*   Care homes and nursing homes

*   Religious communities (monasteries or convents)

*   Properties which are not the owner's main home but are occupied by their domestic staff

*   Homes where a minister of religion lives and works

*   Some homes occupied by asylum seekers

Does Only One Person Have to Pay?

More than one person may have to see the bill is paid, for example joint owners or joint tenants. Usually husbands and wives or couples living as man and wife are jointly responsible. A person who is severely mentally impaired cannot be jointly liable to pay; nor can a full-time student.

Can My Bill be Reduced?

Some people can pay less.

Please contact us or see the section " Discounts, Exemptions and Reductions"

What if I Disagree With the Council's Decision About Who Must Pay?

It is worth contacting us first. We may be able to review our decision without a formal appeal. If you are still unhappy, then your appeal must be made in writing to us.

Your letter must give full details of the decision you are unhappy with and why. We may contact you for further information.