With council tax bills set to rise again in 2025, many households are feeling the strain. At a time when the cost of living is already high, an increase in council tax can push family budgets to the limit. But if you’re struggling to keep up with your payments, there are steps you can take to reduce your burden. Here’s what you need to know.

Check If You’re Eligible for a Discount or Exemption  

Many people don’t realise that they could be entitled to a discount on their council tax bill. Local councils offer reductions for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Single person discount – If you live alone, you can get 25% off your bill.
  • Student exemption – Full-time students are exempt from council tax entirely.
  • Low-income households – Council Tax Reduction (CTR) schemes vary by local authority, but if you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, you may qualify for a discount.
  • Severe mental impairment (SMI) discount – If you or someone in your home has been medically diagnosed with an SMI (such as dementia), you may be eligible for a discount or exemption.
  • Carers and disabled persons – Some councils offer discounts for those providing care or living with a disabled person in a property adapted for their needs.

How to Apply  

Check your local council’s website to find out what discounts and exemptions are available in your area. You’ll usually need to complete an application and provide supporting documents.

Appeal Your Council Tax Band

Did you know that many homes in England are still in the wrong council tax band? This dates back to the rushed property valuations in 1991, which have never been properly updated. If your home is in a higher band than it should be, you could be overpaying.

How to Challenge Your Band  

  • Check your band – Visit the Valuation Office Agency at www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands website and compare your band with similar properties in your area.
  • Gather evidence – If similar homes in your street are in a lower band, you may have a case for an appeal.
  • Submit a challenge – You can formally challenge your band through the VOA, but be aware that your band could go up as well as down.

Set Up a Payment Plan or Apply for a Hardship Fund

If you’re struggling to pay your bill, don’t ignore it. Councils have the power to take enforcement action, including sending bailiffs. However, most councils will work with you if you contact them early.

Options Available  

  • Spread your payments – Instead of paying over 10 months, you can request to spread payments over 12 months to reduce your monthly cost.
  • Apply for a hardship fund – Some councils have discretionary hardship funds for people in severe financial difficulty.
  • Negotiate a repayment plan – If you’ve fallen behind, speak to your council to agree on a manageable repayment plan.

Support our Campaign for a Fairer System  

Council tax is outdated, unfair, and based on property values from over 30 years ago. The highest earners often pay a smaller proportion of their property’s value than those on lower incomes. Fairer Share is campaigning for a Proportional Property Tax, which would replace council tax with a fairer system based on up-to-date property values.

What You Can Do

  • Sign the petition – Show your support for council tax reform.
  • Write to your MP – Let them know that the current system isn’t working and demand change.
  • Spread the word – Share information about the Proportional Property Tax with friends and family.

Get involved with the Fairer Share campaign here.