Council Tax

Council Tax is a tax on domestic property (dwellings) and is the way in which people make a contribution towards the cost of local council-run services such as schools, street lighting, cleansing and libraries, etc.

Every householder over the age of 18 has to pay council tax (whether you rent or own) but there are discounts and exemptions.

The amount of Council Tax you pay depends on the value of the property in which you live. If you do not agree with the valuation set on your home then you can appeal to the listing officer at your local valuation office. A list of these is available from the Council.

Paying your Council Tax

You will receive your Council Tax bill at the beginning of each financial year (in April). You will normally be able to pay your bill in 10 monthly instalments. There will be one bill for each dwelling (house, flat, etc) and the person responsible for paying the bill will either be the owner/occupier(s) or the tenant(s). This includes council house tenant(s).

Your Council Tax will be reduced for homes in which there is only one adult and also if your home is adapted for someone with a disability.

If you have difficulty paying your bill, or you think you may qualify for Council Tax Benefit, or that you are entitled to a bigger rebate, then get in touch with the Council Tax Office or your nearest advice service, as soon as possible.

If you are not happy with the way your Council Tax has been worked out then you can appeal to your local authority.

Council tax and full-time students

Full-time students may be exempt from paying Council Tax, or eligible for a reduction in their Council Tax bill. Find out how to claim from your local authority, then ask your college or university to supply proof of your full-time student status.

Where to get help and more information

Council Tax Offices

Gateshead Council
Civic Centre
Regent Street
Gateshead NE8 1HN
Telephone 0191 433 3600

Opening times
Monday-Thursday 8.45am-5pm, Friday 8.45am-4.35pm

Newcastle City Council
Revenues Department
PO Box 1UP
Newcastle upon Tyne NE99 1UP
Telephone 0845 111 4101

Opening times
Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
Telephone 0845 200 0104

South Tyneside Council
Gordon House
Gordon Street
South Shields NE33 4JP
Telephone 0191 424 4330

Opening times
Monday-Thursday 9am-4.30 pm, Fri 9am-4pm

Sunderland City Council
Council Tax Section
Civic Centre
Sunderland SR2 7DN
Telephone 0191 520 5501

Opening times
Monday-Thursday 8.30am-4.30pm, Friday 8am-4pm.