Council Tax Guides
Expert guides to help you understand council tax bands, appeals, refunds, discounts, and more. All free.
gavel Appeals & Refunds
How to Appeal Your Council Tax Band
Step-by-step guide to challenging your band with the VOA.
Council Tax Appeal Success Rate
Real data on how many appeals succeed and your odds of winning.
How Long Does an Appeal Take?
Timelines and what to expect during the appeal process.
Can Your Band Go UP If You Appeal?
The risks of appealing and when your band could increase.
Council Tax Refunds — How Far Back?
How much you can claim back and the backdating rules.
Refund Calculator
Estimate how much you could get back if your band is wrong.
category Understanding Bands
Council Tax Bands Explained (A–H)
What each band means, 1991 valuations, and average costs.
Band D — What You Pay and Is It Fair?
The benchmark band explained and what it means for your bill.
Bands by Postcode
How to check any address and compare with neighbours.
Check Your Band on the VOA Website
How to use the official VOA tool to verify your band.
savings Discounts & Reductions
Single Person Discount — 25% Off
How to claim 25% off if you live alone.
Disability Reduction
Eligibility and how to apply for a disability band reduction.
Council Tax Reduction Scheme
Means-tested support if you're on a low income.
Council Tax for Students
Student exemptions explained — who qualifies and how to apply.
home_work Special Situations
Council Tax When Moving House
What happens to your council tax when you move.
Empty Property Council Tax
Rules and premiums for unoccupied properties.
Second Home Council Tax — 2026 Rules
New rules and premiums for second homes.
Penalties for Not Paying
What happens if you don't pay and how to avoid enforcement.
Think you're in the wrong band?
Check your council tax band for free — it takes 10 seconds.
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