Millions won’t have to pay key household bill for February and March – are you eligible?
MILLIONS of people won't have to pay a key household bill this month and next.
This is because council tax is usually paid over a period of 10 months instead of 12.
If you do pay your council tax in 10 instalments you'll be rewarded with 60 days where you don't need to fork out.
This falls in February and March, and means you won't get a bill in these months.
To find out if you pay in this way - check your latest council tax bill.
Your bill will tell you exactly how much you have to pay across the year.
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It will also tell you how your council tax is worked out and the specific dates you have to pay.
Your total annual bill is the same - it's just the period of time you pay it over that is different.
For example, a £1,200 annual bill could be paid as £100 a month over 12 months, or as £120 over 10 months and with two months off.
But while many households will get a temporary payment break council tax bills are set to rise in April.
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Local authorities across the country are preparing to increase taxes by as much as 10% in the new tax year.
It will pile extra pressure on household finances as people struggle with the rising cost of living.
We've already listed 13 councils that are considering hiking council tax for households in the next financial year.
The temporary payment break in February and March doesn't affect every household.
How do I change the way I pay council tax?
If you'd like to change to pay for your council tax across 12 months instead of 10, or vice versa, you should contact your local council.
They should be able to set up a new payment schedule for you.
If you don't know what council area you fall under, you can use the gov.uk council locator tool.
You might even have the option to pay twice a year, every two weeks or as a lump sum once a year as well.
But of course, what your options are will depend on where you live.
How can I get a council tax discount?
It's worth checking whether you're eligible for a council tax discount.
Some people can even get a full exemption, meaning they don't have to pay any council tax at all.
For example, students don't have to pay any council tax.
People living on their own get a 25% discount and some pensioners are completely exempt.
If you're on a low income you could be entitled to a discount on your bill.
If you are struggling to pay, you should contact your council as soon as possible.
You can apply for a reduction through the government website.
You'll need to have your national insurance number, bank statements, a recent payslip or letter from the Jobcentre, and a passport or driving licence to hand.
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If there are other adults in the household, you might need the same information for them too.
Check with your local council for specific details on these discounts.