Council tax can be paid in several convenient ways including Direct Debit, online payments, by phone, in person, by post, or bank transfer. Direct Debit is usually the easiest and most popular method, where payments are automatically taken from your bank account monthly or in instalments over the year. You will need your council tax reference number, which is on your bill, to set up payments. Here are the main ways to pay council tax:
- Direct Debit: Set up online through your local council's website with your council tax reference number and bank details. Payments are then automatically collected.
- Online payments: Pay by debit or credit card on your local council's website, using your council tax account number.
- By phone: Call your council’s automated payment line and follow the prompts to pay by card.
- In person: Pay at PayPoint outlets, Post Office, or council service points by cash, cheque, or card (have your council tax bill with you).
- By post: Send a cheque along with your council tax reference number to the address provided by your council.
- Bank transfer: Use your council’s bank details and include your council tax account number as a reference.
If setting up Direct Debit, note that banks usually need 10-14 days to process it. Payment schedules commonly split the annual amount into 10 monthly instalments (April to January) but may be spread over 12 with council agreement. Always check your specific local council website or bill for exact payment methods, including phone numbers, account references, and available options. This summarizes how to pay council tax in the UK effectively and securely.
