Council Tax Information

Who Pays Council Tax?

General Rule: Individuals aged 18 or over are usually required to pay Council Tax.
Full-Time Students: Exempt from paying Council Tax.
Non-Student Adults: If living with a full-time student, they must pay Council Tax.

What Is Council Tax?

Council Tax is a property-based tax collected by the local authority where your accommodation is located.

Important: Notify the Local Authority.

Full-time students are exempt, but it is your responsibility to inform the local authority of your student status. Failure to do so may result in charges, and non-payment can lead to prosecution.

Definition of Full-Time Education.

Study, tuition, or work experience for 21 hours per week.
Attendance for 24 weeks per year.
Most part-time students do not qualify for this exemption.

How to Claim the Student Exemption.

Notify the Local Authority: Contact them immediately if you receive a Council Tax bill.
Provide Proof: Submit a Student Status letter (available from your university’s Student Records team at the Senate House).

For Part-Time Students.
- Speak with your department to confirm if your course meets the 21-hour/week and 24-week/year criteria.

Notices from the Council.

Ignoring Council Tax letters can result in:

Court action.
Enforcement (bailiff) action.
Additional court and administrative costs.

Always read correspondence carefully and contact the local authority if unsure.

Special Cases

International Students:
- Exempt if living with dependents holding a Tier 4 dependent visa.
PhD Students:
- Exempt during the writing-up period.
- Contact your College Support Officer if charged.
Temporary Withdrawal:
- Students on temporary withdrawal remain exempt from paying Council Tax.

Useful Links:

https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Fees-and-Money/Council-Tax

https://www.gov.uk/council-tax/discounts-for-full-time-students

For any further questions or issues relating to accessing the links above, please get in touch here.