Council tax payments are one of the biggest amounts to come out of our accounts so it's no surprise people are keen to find out any ways to avoid this. A number of discounts may be available depending on your circumstances but if you don't qualify for anything - or all you can get is the standard 25 per cent off for being a single occupant - there is something else you can try.
Many people speak of 'council tax breaks' and this can actually be a standard option at some local authorities. Unfortunately, it doesn't reduce the total amount that's due but it can ease the pain considerably.
What this entails is paying your council tax in 10 instalments rather than 12. This typically means you won't be due any council tax in February and March, which become 'free months' when no direct debit is taken out. It's definitely worth looking into this ahead of the huge council tax rises that are expected in April.
On the other hand, if you already pay in 10 instalments and find those too onerous then you could ask to spread the bill over 12 instead so the amount going out of your account is reduced. It can work both ways and you can ask what the difference would be in payments to decide what's best.
In Birmingham, 10 instalments are standard so you may already be getting this arrangement. The city council said: "Council tax is usually split into 10 equal monthly payments. However, you can choose to spread these payments over 12 months instead when setting up your direct debit."
In nearby Coventry, the city council operates a similar policy. Its website has the following guidance: "You will normally receive your annual council tax bill in March. It will tell you how much you have to pay and how that amount has been worked out. The bill will also set out the amount of each instalment and the dates when payment should be received. Payment is due once a month from April through to January inclusive. Normally, you will be offered 10 instalments, however if you would like your instalments extended until March please complete the Council Tax enquiries online form."
In Walsall, you can choose to pay by 10, 11 or 12 instalments, with 10 being the standard payment schedule offered to residents. In Dudley, the council also says 10 instalments is the usual procedure, but that it can be changed, explaining: "You now have the option to pay your council tax over 12 instalments rather than the usual 10. The number of instalments you will get depends on when you register to extend your payments. Once requested, you will be given 12 monthly instalments for future financial years unless you tell us otherwise."
Check your council tax bill or look in your bank account to see when the payments come out. If you're still not sure, give your local authority a call to find out how you're paying and if it is worth changing it.
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