Council Tax explained

The following link explains all you need to know about Council Tax. You can also find out how much the Council Tax charge is in any particular property band. Find out more

Who has to pay Council Tax?

Only people aged 18 or over have to pay council tax. Where there is more than one person aged 18 or over resident in your home, the one with the most secure interest in it is responsible for paying Council Tax.

» Find out more about who has to pay Council Tax

» Frequently asked questions

Paying your Council Tax

Council Tax instalments are payable over 10 months from April to January in every financial year.

Payments must reach the Council by the first of each month. If you pay by cash, you should allow at least 7 working days for your payment to reach your Council Tax account. If you pay online the payment will show on your account the following day.

Find out more about the Council Tax payment options available

Council Tax Benefit

Council Tax Benefit is a government scheme to help people pay their council tax if they are on a low income or get some state benefits

» Find out more about Council Tax benefit

What will happen if you don't pay your Council Tax

» Find out more if you fall into arrears with your Council Tax

Moving home

If you move into or out of Waltham Forest, or if you change homes within Waltham Forest it is important that you let the Council Tax section know. Complete one of our on-line forms to report your change of address

Council Tax discounts and exemptions

There are various types of discounts and exemptions available to Council tax payers. They do not depend on income but instead are granted if certain conditions are met.

» Find out more about discounts and exemptions

Important: reporting changes in circumstances

If your circumstances change after you have been granted a discount or exemption, it could affect your entitlement. These changes include, another adult over 18 moving in to your property, a child turning 18 or no longer in full time education. There are other changes that will affect your entitlement to a discount or exemption. If you are unsure please contact us on 020 8496 3000 today to find out more

You must tell us about any changes in circumstances that would affect your discount or exemption, within 21 days. To do this complete our online change in circumstance form

Take control of your Council tax account on line (self service)

You can manage your Council Tax account on-line using our e-citizen service. The service is free and easy to use.

» Find out more about ebilling self service

How your property is valued for Council Tax

Each property is put into a council tax band by the Valuation Office Agency (which is independent of the council). The band is based on the property's value in 1991.

» Find out more about Council Tax bands

Contact us

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