Understanding council tax bills and payments
Learn how to read your council tax bill and understand what it covers.
What a council tax bill is
Your council tax bill is an annual bill from your local council for the tax you must pay on your home.
It covers local services such as rubbish collection, street cleaning, road maintenance, schools, and emergency services.
Note: Even though the bill is annual, you don’t have to pay it all at once.
How to read your bill
Your council tax bill will usually include:
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Your name and address
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Your property valuation band
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The total annual amount of council tax due
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Any discounts, exemptions, or benefits applied
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A breakdown of how much goes to your local council and other precepts (for police, fire services, or adult social care)
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Payment due dates and instalment options
Tip: Keep your bill safe and upload it to your Homebox dashboard, as you may need it to prove your council tax payments for things like housing or benefits applications.
How payments work
Councils typically allow you to pay your council tax in monthly instalments. You can usually choose:
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10 instalments – paid across 10 months (with a 2-month break)
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12 instalments – paid across 12 months for a smaller monthly amount
Note: If your circumstances change or you struggle to pay, contact us immediately. We can work with the council to can adjust your instalment plan or discuss payment support options.
What to do if you have questions about your bill
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Check the detailed breakdown on your council’s website or your bill itself.
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If something seems incorrect, contact us for clarification.
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Keep track of your payments to ensure your council tax is fully paid each year.
Warning: Council tax is a legal obligation. Missing payments can result in reminders, court action, and enforcement measures.