If a reminder has been issued and the reminder amount has not been paid in full, or subsequent instalments have not been kept up to date, a summons will be issued. Costs will have been charged that will need to be paid in addition to the Council Tax.
The Council will ask the magistrates court to issue a liability order which enables the Council to take various steps to recover the unpaid Council Tax, Click here for further recovery methods available to recover unpaid Council Tax.
To avoid further action and costs the summons must be paid in full before the court date. If you are unable to pay the amount in full, the Council will consider any reasonable offer of repayment but will still apply for a liability order to protect its interest. To contact the Council to make a payment arrangement email ctax@angliarevenues.gov.uk or call 01842 756577, or complete a Payment Arrangement form.
Do I have to attend Court?
There is no need to attend if you accept that the Council Tax is due. The court cannot deal with benefits issues or disputes over liability, discounts or exemptions.
What if I am on a low income?
If you are on a low income you may be able to get Council Tax Benefit to help with your bill. However, you must apply for this and provide all necessary information to support your claim. Click here for more information about Council Tax Benefit.
To check if you may be eligible you can try our on line benefits calculator.
Until any claim for benefits is assessed the Council Tax remains payable as billed and the reminder should be paid.
Banding Appeals
If you have appealed against your Council Tax banding the Council Tax should still be paid until the outcome of your appeal is known. If you are successful in your appeal any overpayment that results will be repaid.
What if I disagree with the bill?
If you feel the bill is incorrect e.g. you believe someone else is liable or you should be given a discount or exemption you should contact the Council Tax section as soon as possible.
