Council Tax 2023/24 - Frequently Asked Questions

Information about paying your 2023/24 Council Tax bill.

Council tax bills will be delivered in March 2023 and will set out how much council tax you need to pay in 2023/24.

Your bill will explain how much council tax you will need to pay, as well as how much we will be collecting on behalf of the fire and police services, and your town or parish council.

How much you pay depends on the value of your property and it is spent providing a wide range of services across the district, supporting communities and helping the district develop to meet future need.

You'll be able to see the 2023/24 rates here shortly: Council Tax Banding and Charges.

This year West Berkshire Council has increased its bill by 2.99 per cent and will also be applying a 2 per cent Adult Social Care Precept - meaning a 4.99 per cent overall increase.

We know that you may have a question about your bill or need to tell us about a change in your circumstances. You can find more information on our Council Tax webpages.

Frequently Asked Questions

The information below answers some of the questions we frequently receive about council tax bills:

When will I receive my new bill?

Bills will be dispatched the week commencing 13 March.

I paid by Direct Debit last year, do I need to do anything this year?

No, as long as you haven't cancelled your Direct Debit you don't have to do anything.

I pay by Standing order, do I need to do anything?

Yes, you will need to amend your standing order with your bank to reflect your increased monthly payments.

Can I spread last year's arrears over this year's council tax year?

Yes, you can bring the remaining balance forward. You will need to contact our customer service advisors on 01635 519520.

Why does it still show a payment as outstanding when I've paid it?

The bills are based on the account balance when the 2023/24 bills are prepared on Friday 24 February. Whilst the bills aren't dispatched until March, any payments made after the 24 February unfortunately cannot be included on the Annual Bill. This could include any instalments which are due on the 1st, 15th, 21st or 28th March.

I don't pay council tax, why have I got a bill?

If your council tax is usually covered in full by benefits or discounts, we are still required to provide you with a statement showing these have all been applied, even if it results in nothing being owed to us.

I live on my own, can I get a discount?

If you are the only person over the age of 18 living in the property, you can apply for a 25 per cent discount on your council tax account online, or by contacting our customer service advisors on 01635 519520.

How can I pay my council Tax?

You can find out about the different ways to pay your council tax here. You can manage your council tax account online here.

Am I on a ten or twelve month plan? When are my 'free months' council tax?

There are no 'free' months. The yearly amount due is calculated into either 10 or 12 monthly instalments with 10 being the default. You can opt to pay over 12 months by managing your council tax account online, or calling our customer advisors on 01635 519520.

Can I sign up for e-billing?

Unfortunately this is not an option we can currently provide, but you can view and manage your council tax account online.

I am struggling financially, can I get any help?

Depending on your circumstance you may be entitled to some reduction. You can find out more on the Council Tax Reduction, Discounts and Exemptions page.