What will happen if you don't pay your council tax

If you fail to pay your instalments by the due date given on your bill, recovery action will commence. All instalment payers will be subject to the same recovery procedures in accordance with the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations.

The following action is taken:-

• A reminder/final notice will be issued approximately 14 days after your instalment becomes due
• Failure to comply with a reminder/final notice will lead to the issue of a summons by the magistrates court

The council applies to the court for a liability order which allows the council to:-

• Ask your employer to deduct an amount from your earnings
• Use external bailiffs
• Ask the Department of Works and Pensions to make payments direct to the council if you are in receipt of income support/job seekers allowance

In certain cases the council can register outstanding council tax as a charge on your property (like a mortgage).

The council can also instigate bankruptcy proceedings.

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