Reminders
If you don't pay an instalment on time, you will receive a reminder notice.
We will send a maximum of 2 reminders in any financial year (April to March) before a final notice or summons is issued.
Keep your payments on track - view your council tax bills and payments online. To do this, you will need to register for an account with us. Registration is quick and easy, you can even sign in via Facebook!
Why have I received a reminder and how do I pay?
You need to make sure that you pay your bill in plenty of time, as payments take a minimum of 24 hours to reach your council tax account.
You need to bring your account up to date within 7 days of the date on your reminder notice to avoid further recovery action.
How to bring your account up to date
You can also make payment using all major credit and debit cards by phoning our 24 hour automated payment line 0345 605 3016.
Direct Debits
To avoid further recovery action in the future, you might wish to set up a Direct Debit. Paying by Direct Debit is the easiest and most secure way of paying your council tax bill. You can choose to pay on the 1st, 15th or 30th of each month, over 10 or 12 instalments dependant on the number of months remaining in the financial year.
I've received a reminder, but my instalment has been paid?
If you have paid the full amount shown on the reminder notice, we may have received your payment after the reminder has been sent to you.
Missing payments
If you have paid an instalment in plenty of time, you will need to contact us on 0345 605 3010 or via our online contact income form, to let us know what date the payment left your bank account, and how the payment was made. We may ask to see proof of this. We will then attempt to trace the payment to find out what has happened.
What happens if I have an outstanding claim for council tax benefit?
I have an outstanding appeal with the Valuation Office, do I still need to pay?
Should your appeal be successful, your account will be adjusted and any overpaid council tax will be refunded. The Valuation Office will let us know the outcome of your appeal so that we can make the relevant adjustments for you.
If you have any banding enquiries, you need to contact the Valuation Office. We do not have the authority to change council tax bands.
I am unable to make a council tax payment, what should I do?
As stated on your reminder notice, you need to bring your account up to date within 7 days of the date on the letter.
Setting up a direct debit
You can set up a direct debit online; this is the quickest and easiest way to avoid further recovery action. We will give you the option of paying over 10 or 12 monthly instalments on 1st, 15th or 30th of each month.
Help to pay your council tax
If you are on a low income, or receiving certain benefits, you may be entitled to claim Council Tax Reduction. To find out if you are eligible, go to our calculator below.
Some people may be exempt from paying council tax, or may be entitled to certain discounts.
Read more about discounts and exemptions.
Help managing debt
If you need help managing your debts, you can contact Citizens Advice. The number to call is 03444 111 444.
Debt advice is also available on the Citizens Advice website.
The National Debt Advice Line is also available https://www.nationaldebtline.org/
Share this page
