What Months Do You Not Pay Council Tax?

Most UK households pay Council Tax over 10 months, with no payments in February and March. Learn how to pay, spread costs, and check your bill.

Council Tax is a local tax charged on residential properties to fund services like waste collection, schools, and emergency services. While payments are typically made over 10 months, many people wonder which months they don’t have to pay and whether they can spread payments differently.

This guide explains which months you don’t pay, how Council Tax bills work, how to spread payments over 12 months, and ways to pay.

What Months Do You Not Pay Council Tax?

Most people do not pay Council Tax in February and March. Standard Council Tax payments are spread over 10 months, meaning:

  • Payments are made from April to January.

  • No payments are due in February and March.

However, you can choose to spread your payments over 12 months to reduce monthly costs.

How to Pay Your Council Tax

Council Tax is usually paid in monthly instalments. You can pay:

  • Over 10 months (April to January) – No payments in February & March.

  • Over 12 months – Smaller payments, but no break in February & March.

How to Change Your Payment Plan to 12 Months

  • Contact your local council – Find your council at GOV.UK.

  • Request to spread payments over 12 months.

  • Your council will recalculate your bill.

Example of Monthly Payments:

Council Tax Band D Charge: £2,000 per year

  • Monthly Payment (10 months) Standard Plan (April - January)£200 per month

  • Monthly Payment (12 months)Extended Plan (April - March)–£166.67 per month

What Does Your Council Tax Bill Tell You?

Your Council Tax bill includes:

  • Total amount due for the year.

  • Your Council Tax band (A-H or A-I in Wales).

  • Payment schedule (10 or 12 months).

  • Discounts applied (e.g., Single Person Discount 25%).

If you disagree with your bill, you can challenge your Council Tax band via GOV.UK.

Ways to Pay Your Council Tax Bill

  • Direct Debit – Automatic payments each month (most councils prefer this).

  • Online via your local council’s website.

  • Bank transfer or standing order.

  • Over the phone (council helpline).

  • At a Post Office or PayPoint location.

If you struggle to pay, contact your council to discuss a payment plan or Council Tax Reduction.

Final Thoughts

  • Most households don’t pay Council Tax in February and March (if on a 10-month plan).

  • You can spread payments over 12 months to reduce monthly costs.

  • Your Council Tax bill explains your band, total amount, and payment schedule.

  • If you need help paying, contact your local council for support.

To change your Council Tax payment plan, visit GOV.UK’s local council finder and contact your local authority.