A summons is issued if, after a reminder has been issued, the Council Tax has not been paid as shown on the bill issued. Costs will have been charged that will need to be paid in addition to the Council Tax.

The Council will ask the magistrates court to issue a liability order which enables the Council to take various steps to recover the unpaid Council Tax, including passing it to a bailiff to recover.

The Council will consider any reasonable offer of repayment but will still apply for a liability order to protect its interest.

To avoid further action and costs the summons must be paid in full before the court date.

Do I have to attend Court?

There is no need to attend if you accept that the Council Tax is due. The court cannot deal with benefits issues or disputes over liability, discounts or exemptions.

What if I am on a low Income?

If you are on a low income you may be able to get Council Tax Benefit to help with your bill. However, you must apply for this and provide all necessary information to support your claim. Click here for more information about Council Tax Benefit.

To check if you may be eligible you can try our on line benefits calculator.

 Click here to download an application form for Housing and Council Tax Benefit. [260kb]

Until any claim for benefits is assessed the Council Tax remains payable as billed and the reminder should be paid.

Banding Appeals

If you have appealed against your Council Tax banding the Council Tax should still be paid until the outcome of your appeal is known. If you are successful in your appeal any overpayment that results will be repaid.

What if I disagree with the bill?

If you feel the bill is incorrect e.g. you believe someone else is liable or you should be given a discount or exemption you should  contact the Council Tax section as soon as possible.

Having problems paying your bills?

If you are in financial difficulty and find it hard to pay your bills click here for information about where to get help.