Frequently asked questions
What if I am still not happy and want to appeal to an independent body (The Valuation Appeal Committee)?
To appeal to an independent body you must have already written to us telling us that you were dissatisfied. You must have received a reply and be dissatisfied with that reply, or 2 months have passed since you wrote to us and you have not received a reply.
You must then make an online application to the Local Taxation Chamber (within 4 months of your original appeal) telling the Local Taxation Chamber that you wish to appeal the decision of Falkirk Council.
Further information and an online application to submit a Council Tax appeal can be found on their website.
What will happen at the hearing?
The Tribunal's normal way of working is to hold virtual hearings. The Tribunal will only consider holding a face-to-face hearing, if it is satisfied that it would be impossible for it to dispense justice remotely.
The Tribunal will hear the case presented by you or your representative, then by the Council's representative. Both you and the Council's representative may present evidence, eg copies of letters, extracts from relevant council tax legislation and case law.
After each case is presented the Tribunal may address questions to both you and the Council's representative and you and the Council's representative can also address questions to each other. Each party in turn has the opportunity to sum up their case.
What will happen after the hearing?
When an appeal is decided at a hearing you may be told the decision orally at the hearing or advised in writing later. The Tribunal's written decision will be provided as soon as possible after the Tribunal have made their decision.
If your appeal is upheld your council tax account will be adjusted in accordance with the decision of the Tribunal and a new bill will be sent to you. Any credit balance on your council tax account resulting from this change will be transferred to any other outstanding council tax account you may have or it will be refunded.
You and or the Council can appeal the decision to the Upper Tribunal for Scotland but only on a point of law. Before an appeal can be made to the Upper Tribunal, the party must first seek permission to appeal from the First-tier Tribunal. That party must seek permission to appeal within 30 days of the date the decision was sent to them.