Council tax to rise by up to 5% this year – how to check how much yours is going up by
COUNCIL tax is set to rise by up to 5% this year for thousands of families - here's how to check how much yours is going up by.
Local authorities across the country were given the green light last year to hike the levy up by up to 5% this April.
That's in order to help cash-strapped councils get the money needed to pay for rising police and social care costs.
It's also because authorities have dished out extra cash to struggling households during the Covid crisis - and now need to balance their budgets.
The amount you'll pay is determined by the local council and depends which "band" the property you live in falls under.
Your home's band is based on its value - the more expensive the property, the more council tax will be charged.
Thousands of families across the country are in line for hikes in just a matter of weeks, as councils reveal their budgets for the new financial year.
Here's how to check if your bill is going up - and how to beat the rising costs.
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How much will my bill be going up by?
If you want to check if your council tax bill is expected to rise in April, you'll need to contact your local authority for more information.
Council tax changes are usually announced in the last week of March.
You can check on the to see how much your council tax is by looking at which band you’re in.
You'll also be able to see what the new rate is when your council tax bill comes through in April.
Which local authorities have hiked bills?
The Sun spotted a number of councils who have already announced plans to raise the levy.
Families living in Buckinghamshire, Southend and Norfolk will see hikes of up to 3.99%.
While households in Worcestershire will see bills increase by 3.94%.
Those in Stoke on Trent, Leeds, Derby, Luton and Islington will see a 2.99% rise.
Ask your local authority for more information about your bill.
How can I get help paying it?
With a cost of living crisis squeezing household budgets, Brits will be keen to know how to save money on the bill.
There are ways of getting help - but it depends on your financial situation and personal circumstance.
Get a discount
You might be able to get a discount if you claim certain benefits, are on a low income, are single, or you have caring responsibilities.
Discounts range from 25% to 100%, which would mean you wouldn't have to pay any council tax.
The exact amount depends on:
- Where you live
- Your circumstances (for example your income, number of children, benefits, residency status)
- Your household income - this includes savings, pensions and your partner’s income
- If your children live with you
- If other adults live with you
For example, single people can get 25% off their bills while students don't have to pay at all.
You'll need to for more information and apply for a council tax reduction directly.
Challenge your band
You might be able to cut your bill by challenging your council tax band - but be warned it doesn't always work.
Experts estimate that up to 400,000 properties are in the wrong band.
The first step is to check what council tax band your neighbours are on - you can then see if it matches your band.
Use the website to do this for houses in England, or the for properties in Scotland.
If your neighbours are on a lower band than you, contact the (VOA) in England and Wales or the (SAA) in Scotland.
Get the £150 rebate
Millions of Brits will get a £150 council tax refund to help with stretched budgets in April - when rises are expected to roll out.
Those in council tax bands A to D will get the cash - around 80% of homes.
But those in bands E to H are among those missing out.
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You can find out which band you're in by using l - you just need to enter your postcode.
You could challenge your council tax band if you think it's wrong so you don't miss out on the cash.
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