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Council Tax Support: What to do if you’re struggling to pay

Worried about your Council Tax? You’re not alone - and we’re here to help
25 March 2026
Kay Abbott is the Financial Wellbeing Specialist at the Film and TV Charity

Our latest Money Matters report shows that 15% of respondents have fallen behind on Council Tax - a priority bill that must be paid before non-priority debts such as credit cards or Buy Now, Pay Later.

Why Council Tax is a priority bill

This is because missing Council Tax payments can lead to court action, bailiff enforcement, deductions from wages or benefits, and in severe cases, prison sentences.

In my role as the Charity’s Financial Wellbeing Adviser, I often see applicants to our Stop-Gap Grant already dealing with Council Tax arrears, which can escalate quickly into significant legal and financial problems.

If you’re struggling, don’t ignore it – support is available. To help, I’ve put together practical guidance to help you manage costs, access help, and stay on track with your priority bills.

How to keep a household budget

Creating a budget helps you prioritise essential costs like rent, mortgage, and Council Tax. Use tools like our budgeting guide to get started.

Use our budgeting tool

Minimise payments by paying smaller amounts more regularly 

Council Tax is charged annually – from April to April – but it often tends to be paid in 10 instalments from April to January. However, all English councils must allow you to pay over 12 months if you choose to. 

Ask about alternative payment plans

If you think you’ll struggle to pay your Council Tax, contact your local council immediately – they may offer payment plans or temporary relief. You also shouldn’t ignore the problem; early action can prevent legal proceedings or bailiff involvement. 

You can also seek free, confidential advice from:

Check if you’re in the right Council Tax band? 

Up to 400,000 homes may be overvalued due to outdated 1991 property valuations, meaning you could be paying too much Council Tax. 

Make sure to check your band by comparing with neighbours in similar properties. You can also estimate your home’s 1991 value using tools like Zoopla or Rightmove. Money Saving Expert also has further support. If both suggest your band is too high, you can challenge it. 

Council Tax discounts and reductions you might be missing  

You may qualify for a discount or reduction if you are: 

  • A single adult (25% discount)
  • A student or live with students
  • Living with a disability
  • On a low income (Council Tax Support) 

You can also use our benefits checker to see what you’re entitled to or contact your local council or Citizens Advice for help. 

At the Charity we offer Stop-Gap Grants and our Sir Horace Ové Grant or check Turn 2 Us to see what grants you might be eligible for. 

Important: Don’t miss a payment 

Missing a single council tax payment can escalate quickly: 

  • Within three weeks, you may be asked to pay your entire annual bill.
  • If unpaid, the council can apply for a liability order, leading to: court action, wage deductions, and bailiff visits 

This process is often faster and more severe than other types of debt collection, i.e. credit card debt. If you fall behind or feel you may miss a payment, then reach out to your local authority. There are also several debt charities that can offer support free of charge e.g. local CAB (Citizens Advice Bureau), CAP, Stepchange, and the National Debtline. 

Please note: If you feel you will miss any priority bills. it is advisable to contact your provider in the first instance.

Update - April 2026: Changes to council tax collection

We are pleased to highlight that the government, as of Wednesday 15th April, announced important changes to make council tax debt collection less rapid and aggressive, coming into effect from April 2027.

Under these changes, people will no longer become liable for their full annual council tax bill until 63 days after missing a payment. This gives people more time, in law, to recover from a missed payment and get back on track financially.

The government has also capped the charges that local authorities can add for a court summons and liability order at £100. While this brings England into line with Wales, and although charges could still be lower, it represents a positive step in the right direction.

MUA applying make-up to an actor on set.

Financial support

If Council Tax is causing you stress or financial pressure, remember, we're here to help. Our confidential financial support team can help you understand your options.

Find the right support for you

Summary

Fifteen percent of people have fallen behind on Council Tax, a priority bill that can quickly lead to court action or bailiffs. Early budgeting, band checks, discounts, and debt‑advice services can prevent escalation. Proposed reforms may ease rules, but support is available now through councils, charities and the Stop‑Gap Grant.

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