Council tax

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What is Council Tax in the UK? Do international students have to pay it?

Firstly, Council Tax is a local government tax in the UK that functions as a form of property tax. It is similar to property management fees in China. Since most UK properties do not have residential compounds like in China, and many are individual houses or townhouses, the UK government takes responsibility for the surrounding public environment, public facilities, and security. The expenses incurred for these government-provided social services are funded through the collection of Council Tax. It is primarily collected in England, Scotland, and Wales.

So, how is Council Tax calculated?

The specific amount to be paid depends on the property. It is calculated per property, considering all occupants living in the house. However, the responsibility for paying the tax varies depending on the circumstances. For example, if the entire property is rented out, the tenant is responsible for paying the tax. If only a part of the property is rented out, the landlord is responsible for paying the tax.

The Council Tax amount is determined based on various factors such as the current value of the property, the local area, and the size of the property. It is divided into different bands or levels known as Council Tax bands (bands A-H in England and bands A-I in Wales). The following table shows the approximate tax amounts based on the property value in 1991 and the corresponding band:

[Table illustrating Council Tax bands and corresponding charges]

To find out the specific amount of Council Tax you need to pay, you can directly visit the website and enter your postal code for a tax assessment."

Note: Council Tax requirements for international students may vary based on factors such as their immigration status, whether they are full-time students, and the type of accommodation they reside in. It is advisable for international students to consult with their educational institution or local authorities for specific information regarding Council Tax obligations.

 ：https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands

 

Who needs to pay Council Tax?

Typically, individuals who are 18 years old or above and own or rent a property in the UK are required to pay this tax. The full amount of Council Tax is only applicable when two or more adults reside in the property. If only one adult aged 18 or above lives in the property, they may be eligible for a 25% discount. If no one is living in the property, a 50% discount can be applied.

Who is exempt from paying Council Tax?

If all occupants of the property are full-time students in the UK, then they may be exempt from paying this tax.

Full-time students are not required to pay Council Tax. Full-time refers to studying for more than 21 hours per week in the UK or studying for a duration exceeding 1 year. Obtaining a student confirmation letter from the student center is usually sufficient as proof.

How to pay Council Tax?

Generally, the Council Tax department of your local municipal office will send you a Council Tax letter specifying the amount due, payment instructions, and the deadline. Council Tax is calculated on an annual basis, but the payment can be spread over 10 months."

Note: Council Tax exemptions and regulations may vary depending on the specific circumstances and local authorities. It is advisable to consult with the local council or relevant authorities for accurate and up-to-date information on Council Tax obligations and exemptions.

 

 

link：https://www.gov.uk/pay-council-tax，

Enter the place of residence to find out the Council Tax band classification of the property

What should I do if I receive a council tax court summons in the UK?

Council Tax is the property tax mentioned earlier, which is used to fund social services related to the living environment and facilities. Both renters and homeowners are required to pay this tax, except for full-time students.

In England and Wales, properties are classified into different bands, ranging from the lowest band A to the highest band H.

If you are unsure about the band classification of your residence, you can visit the website.

 ：http://cti.voa.gov.uk/cti/inits.asp

Then enter your postal code, and you will be able to find it

 

So who needs to pay this council tax? As mentioned earlier, full-time students are exempt from paying it. Please log in to the website.

：https://www.gov.uk/council-tax/who-has-to-pay

You will be able to find out who needs to pay this property tax.

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Note that if you are dealing with an agent, make sure to have them assist you with the exemption from paying the property tax. You will need to provide a student confirmation letter issued by your school, and it is crucial to arrange this right from the beginning.

Now, for those who have received a court summons, as long as you are still a full-time student studying for at least one year, you need to take immediate action. First, call the local government and explain the situation. If a phone call is not sufficient, bring your student confirmation letter, BRP (Biometric Residence Permit), and passport to the local municipal office.

Alternatively, take the council tax court summons to your school's student center and explain your situation. The school will help you by providing a letter to the council tax office, confirming your status as a student and exempting you from paying council tax. Council tax letters will continue to arrive until they receive the letter from your school, which will prompt them to send you a letter stating that you are no longer required to pay.