Unsure of what council tax is and whether you need to pay it? Reading Students' Union Housing Advice Team are here to share helpful advice on Council Tax for students...
What Is Council Tax?
Council Tax is a local tax on a residential property based on the property's value. The money goes towards local community services such as, Police and Fire Authorities, waste collection, parks and libraries. A Council Tax Bill is automatically sent out to each property every year.
Do students have to pay?
Firstly, it is important to be aware that Council Tax is a serious matter and local authorities regularly take people to the Magistrates Court for non-payment. It is important to check the rules that apply to you and contact the local authority if you think they have made a mistake. Do not ignore a letter from the local authority concerning Council Tax, even if you do not think you are liable to pay.
To be exempt from paying Council Tax, a student needs to be enrolled for the purpose of undertaking a “full-time course of education” for at least 24 weeks in an academic year. It is not necessary to count how many hours you – as an individual - study. If in doubt, ask your School if your course is a “full-time course of education”.
Students are considered “full-time” from the day they enrol on a “full-time” programme until the day they complete it, abandon it or are dismissed from it. This includes Easter and Christmas holidays during your course and Summer holidays between academic years, but does not include:
- Any period before you enrol on the first year of your course. If you are an international student and arrive in the UK before you enrol, you will be liable to pay Council Tax until the date of your enrolment;
- The summer period (end of semester) after you complete your course as a final year student
You can download your Council Tax Exemption Certificate from RISIS, if you need to provide evidence to your local authority that you are exempt from Council Tax.
Reading Students' Union Advice Service are here to help if you are unsure
Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate, from the UK or overseas, straight out of school or college or returning to study, the Reading Students' Union Advice Service can provide advice services tailored to meet your specific needs and help guide you through issues you are facing. They can help with Academic, Housing and Money, including any questions you may have about Council Tax. If you are unsure of your council tax speak to a Reading Students' Union Adviser, who will clarify your Council Tax liability for you.
The Advice Service is free, confidential, non-judgemental, independent and non-discriminatory. If you'd like support from the advice service, please complete the online form. For more information about the Advice Service, check out the Reading Students' Union website.