This page is for people who pay Council Tax and want to understand:

• why Council Tax is going up in 2026 to 2027
• how much it may affect their household
• what help is available if they are on a low income or struggling to pay
• what to do next

If you already know your bill is increasing and want to check if you can get help, go straight to Check if you can get Council Tax Reduction.

The council must set a balanced budget each year. For 2026 to 2027, this means increasing Council Tax.

The total increase is 8.77%. This is made up of:

• 6.27% to help pay for day to day local services
• 2.5% to support long term investment, such as maintaining roads, buildings, schools and leisure facilities

Most households will see their Council Tax bill increase.

You may be affected differently depending on:

• your income
• who lives in your household
• whether you already receive financial support

Some people may not need to pay the full increase because they qualify for help.

Council Tax Reduction (CTR) helps people on a low income pay less Council Tax.

It reduces the amount you have to pay, but it does not remove your Council Tax responsibility completely.

You may be able to get CTR if you:

• have a low income
• receive benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit

Even if you have never applied before, it is worth checking. Many people qualify without realising it.

You can use the Benefits Calculator to get an instant estimate. It is free, confidential and easy to use.

If the calculator shows you may be eligible, you can then apply.

You can apply online. You will need information about:

• your income
• rent or mortgage
• savings
• who lives in your home

Some households may qualify for a discount or exemption instead of, or as well as, CTR.

This depends on your circumstances, such as:

• whether you live alone
• whether someone in your household is a student
• whether the property is empty or adapted for disability needs

Find out more on the council's Council Tax discounts and exemptions page.

Even if you believe you will not qualify for help, you are encouraged to check.

Rules can be complex, and small changes in income or household details can make a difference.

Using the Benefits Calculator is the quickest way to find out.

If you are finding it hard to manage your bills, you can also get help with:

• welfare benefits advice
• debt and budgeting support
• crisis grants

Telephone: 0808 100 3161

You will be directed to the right service based on your situation.

Support is available if you find forms difficult or need extra help.

This includes:

• telephone support
• Face to face appointments

Telephone: 0808 100 3161

You can also visit the Community Advice Services webpage for more support.

Will Council Tax Reduction remove the increase completely?

If you qualify for the maximum level of CTR, you may not feel the increase in your bill.

If you receive partial CTR, your bill may still go up, but by less than the full amount.

Do I need to apply again each year?

You should tell the council if your circumstances change. Changes can affect how much help you receive.

What should I do now?

• check your Council Tax bill when you receive it
• use the Benefits Calculator to check if you qualify for help
• apply for Council Tax Reduction or discounts if you are eligible
• contact support services if you are struggling to pay