How to Cancel Council Tax When Moving House in the UK

Learn how to cancel Council Tax when moving, inform your council, transfer accounts, get refunds, and avoid overlapping payments.

Council Tax is a mandatory local tax for all UK residential properties, funding public services like waste collection and emergency services. If you are moving house, someone has died, or your circumstances change, you may need to cancel or transfer your Council Tax account.

This guide covers how to cancel Council Tax when moving, when to inform your council, Council Tax overlaps, refunds, and how to register at a new address.

What is Council Tax?

Council Tax is a local government tax paid by households in England, Scotland, and Wales. The amount you pay depends on:

  • Your Council Tax band (based on property value).

  • Your local council’s rates.

  • Any discounts or exemptions you qualify for.

If you move house, you must inform your local council to avoid overpaying or being charged incorrectly.

How Do I Cancel My Council Tax When I Move House?

To cancel your Council Tax, follow these steps:

  • Notify your current council – Inform them at least 2 weeks before you move.

  • Provide your moving details – Give your moving date and new address.

  • Clear any outstanding payments – Pay any remaining balance or arrange a final bill.

  • Request a refund (if overpaid) – Councils refund overpaid tax to your bank account.

  • Register with your new council – Set up a new Council Tax account at your new address.

Each council has its own online form for cancellations. Find your local council via GOV.UK.

When Do I Need to Inform the Council That I Am Moving Address?

You should inform your current council at least 2 weeks before your moving date.

  • If selling a house – Provide your completion date.

  • If renting – Give your tenancy end date.

  • If moving abroad – Inform the council of your departure date.

Failing to notify the council can result in overcharges or delays in refunds.

How Do I Register with My New Local Council?

Once you move, you must register for Council Tax at your new address.

  • Visit your new local council’s website.

  • Submit your new property details.

  • Apply for any discounts or exemptions (e.g., Single Person Discount).

Your new Council Tax band may be different, so check the local rates using GOV.UK’s Council Tax checker.

What If Someone Has Died?

If the Council Tax payer has passed away, the council should be informed as soon as possible.

  • If the property was solely occupied by the deceased, it is exempt from Council Tax until sold or transferred.

  • If a spouse or relative still lives there, they may qualify for a Council Tax discount.

  • Use the Tell Us Once service to notify multiple government agencies at once.

Visit GOV.UK - Tell Us Once for more information.

How Long Does It Take to Transfer My Council Tax When Moving?

  • Cancelling Council Tax – Takes 7-14 days after notifying your council.

  • Registering at a new address – Can take up to 4 weeks.

  • Receiving refunds – Refunds for overpaid tax are usually processed within 2-4 weeks.

To avoid delays, submit all required documents (tenancy agreements, proof of ownership) when applying.

When Should I Start the Process of Cancelling My Council Tax?

Start the process as soon as you know your moving date.

  • Homeowners – Inform your council before exchanging contracts.

  • Renters – Inform the council before your tenancy ends.

  • Students moving out – If you qualify for an exemption, notify the council immediately.

Early notice ensures accurate billing and prevents overpayment.

What is a Council Tax Overlap When Moving House?

A Council Tax overlap happens when:

  • You are liable for Council Tax on two properties at the same time.

  • You move before your tenancy ends (renters).

  • You own two homes due to delays in selling your old property.

How to Avoid Overlapping Council Tax Payments:

  • If renting, request an early tenancy termination from your landlord.

  • If owning two properties, ask if the empty property qualifies for a discount.

  • If your new home is uninhabitable, you may qualify for temporary exemption.

Each council has different rules, so check their policies directly.

Can I Get a Council Tax Refund if I Move?

Yes! If you overpaid Council Tax, you can request a refund.

  • If you paid in advance, you may be owed money.

  • Councils usually refund directly to your bank account.

  • Refunds take 2-4 weeks to process.

To check if you’re due a refund, contact your local council.

What Information Do I Need to Transfer and Cancel My Council Tax?

To cancel or transfer your Council Tax, you may need:

  • Your current Council Tax account number.

  • Your new address (for forwarding final bills or refunds).

  • Moving date (completion date or tenancy end date).

  • Landlord’s details (if renting).

  • Solicitor details (if buying/selling a property).

How Do I Work Out My New Council Tax Rate?

Your new Council Tax rate depends on:

  • Your new property's Council Tax band.

  • Your local council's charges.

  • Any discounts or exemptions you qualify for.

To check your new rate, visit GOV.UK’s Council Tax checker and search by postcode.

Final Thoughts

  • Cancel your Council Tax at least 2 weeks before moving to avoid overpaying.

  • Register with your new council immediately after moving.

  • Check for Council Tax overlaps if you are liable for two properties.

  • Claim a refund if you overpaid Council Tax before moving out.

  • Use GOV.UK to check your new Council Tax band.

For more help, contact your local council’s website to start the cancellation or transfer process.