UK Council Tax — Moving (2026)
Everything you need to know about UK Council Tax — band charges, payment options, discounts, reductions and contact details. Updated for 2026/27 with verified official links.
🎯 Quick Answer
When you move into or out of UK, tell the council within 21 days via the online change-of-address form. Any overpayment will be refunded automatically.
📦 Moving Home — UK Council Tax
When moving into or out of UK, you must notify the council within 21 days of your move. This ensures you’re charged correctly and receive any refund due.
Information you’ll need
- Your old address and new address (with postcodes)
- Date you moved (or will move)
- Your current Council Tax account/reference number
- Names of everyone moving with you (18+)
- Tenancy agreement or completion date (if applicable)
- Landlord details (if renting)
What happens next
- Your old account will be closed from the move date
- Any overpayment will be refunded (6–8 weeks typically)
- A new account will be opened at your new address
- You’ll receive your new Council Tax bill within 4–6 weeks
Moving Guide (GOV.UK) UK Council
📋 Step-by-Step Guide
Have your exact move-in or move-out date ready.
Include full postcodes and tenancy/completion details.
Go to gov.uk/council-tax-moving-house to find your council, or directly to UK Council’s website.
Enter old address, new address, move date, and everyone moving with you (18+).
You’ll get email confirmation. Old account closes, new opens.
Any Council Tax you’ve overpaid on your old property will be refunded automatically (6–8 weeks).
📞 Official Contact & Useful Links
Verified Official Resources
- 🏛️ UK Council Tax: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
- 💳 Pay UK Council Tax: https://www.gov.uk/pay-council-tax
- 🔍 Check Council Tax Band (VOA): https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands
- 💰 Apply for Reduction: https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-council-tax-reduction
- 📉 Apply for Discount: https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-council-tax-discount
- ⚖️ Council Tax Appeals: https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals
- 🏡 Moving House Guide: https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-moving-house
- 🏘️ Find Your Local Council: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How is UK Council Tax calculated?
Your UK Council Tax bill is based on your property’s Council Tax band (A–H) set by the VOA, multiplied by the Band D rate set by your local council each year, and adjusted for band ratio. Precepts from parish councils, police and fire authorities may also apply.
When is UK Council Tax due?
UK Council Tax is billed annually but paid monthly. The year runs April–March. Most payments are due on the 1st or 15th of each month, over 10 or 12 instalments (your choice if you use Direct Debit).
What happens if I don't pay UK Council Tax?
If you miss payments, UK Council will issue a reminder (7 days to pay), then a final notice, then a court summons. A Liability Order gives the council powers to use bailiffs, deduct from wages/benefits, or apply for bankruptcy. Always contact the council early to agree a payment plan.
Can I get help paying my UK Council Tax?
Yes — apply for Council Tax Reduction (CTRS) if you’re on low income or benefits. You can also apply for Single Person Discount, Disabled Band Reduction, or check if you qualify for an exemption. See the reduction and discount sections above.
How do I check my UK Council Tax band?
Use the official VOA tool at gov.uk/council-tax-bands for England and Wales, or saa.gov.uk for Scotland. Just enter your postcode — it’s free and takes under a minute.
Is UK Council Tax the same every year?
No — Council Tax usually increases each April. The 2026/27 rise is capped at around 5% for most authorities (3% base + 2% adult social care precept). Your annual bill in April will reflect the new charges.
⚠️ Important: Council Tax rates, discounts and policies can change each financial year (April–March). Always confirm current figures via the official links above before making decisions. This guide is for information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.