Council Tax

Every household in Portsmouth has a responsibility to pay Council Tax.

Anyone in the property over the age of 18, whether single or multiple occupants, are responsible for paying and advising us of changes in circumstances, including moving home, or requesting a discount or exemption.

A Council Tax bill is issued once a year (even if you plan to pay monthly) and also anytime you notify us of a change of circumstances.

There is further information available:

• Frequently asked questions
• Frequently asked questions for landlords
• Frequently asked questions for students
• Houses in multiple occupation
• How Council Tax is calculated
• Reminders, summons and court proceedings

View the ‘how to pay your Council Tax’ page for information about paying by direct debit, online and over the phone.

• follow the link to check your property’s Council Tax band
• if you think your property value is wrong, find out how to challenge your Council Tax band

If you are having difficulties in paying your Council Tax bill, then help could be at hand.

• if you live alone, are a student or have certain disabilities then you may be eligible for a discount or exemption
• if you are on a low income then you may be eligible for our Council Tax Support scheme

Alternatively, you may be able to set up a special payment arrangement that takes your financial circumstances into consideration.

Phone us on 023 9268 8588 to explore which option will be best for you

If you are in financial difficulty please follow the link for money advice and assistance.

For a copy of your bill call 023 9268 8588 or complete the online form.

You’re welcome to discuss Council Tax queries informally with us.

However, a formal appeal needs to be made in writing if, for example, you believe you’re not liable to pay a Council Tax bill, or that your property should be exempt or have a discount applied.

We then have two months to reach a decision on a formal appeal, and may ask you for more information to help us decide in that time.

If you haven’t heard from us at the end of two months or you don’t agree with our decision, you can appeal to either the independent Valuation Office Agency, or the Valuation Tribunal Service, depending on the subject of your appeal.

If your appeal is upheld by one of these independent bodies, we will make the necessary change.