Frequently Asked Council Tax Questions
Q:What is Council Tax?
A: Council Tax was introduced as a replacement for the Community
Charge, commonly known as the Poll Tax. Every household has a liability for
Council Tax. Money received from the Council Tax helps to pay for schools,
libraries, refuse collection, social services, the police and fire
authorities. For residents living in Swanscombe and Greenhithe or parished
areas of the borough, an element of your Council Tax goes to pay for the
services which the Town Council or Parish Council provide.
Q: How much does each household pay?
A: The amount each household pays depends on where you live and the
value of the property. The amount you pay is not affected by whether you are
the owner or the tenant of the property.
Each property is placed in a band according to its value.
Q:How does the Council know the band for each property?
A: The Valuation Office and the Council maintain a database of every
property in the Dartford area. We notify the Valuation Office that a
property has been completed and they allocate a band for the property.
Q: What can I do if I disagree with the Council Tax band for the
property?
A: Council Tax banding is the responsibility of the Valuation Office
Agency, Inland Revenue. There are only limited circumstances when an appeal
can be made.
If you require further information on appeals against bandings you should contact The Listing Officer at Tunbridge Wells Valuation Office, Union House, Eridge Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HF, Tel (01892) 796700, Website: www.voa.gov.uk
Q: How will I know how much to pay?
A: The band of your property and the amount that you are being asked
to pay is shown clearly on your bill. The bill will also show any reduction
that you have been awarded.
The Council Tax financial year runs from 1st April to 31st March. You can
therefore expect to receive a Council Tax bill each March, which will advise
you of your monthly instalments.
Q:Can I get a reduction in my bill?
A: You may not have to pay the full Council Tax. Reductions are
available through discounts, exemptions, Council Tax Benefit and Reductions
for Disabled Persons. If you think you may be entitled to a reduction please
contact the Council Tax Section.
Q: Do I have to pay the full amount at once?
A: If you receive a Council Tax bill in March for the full financial
year, you will usually be given 10 equal instalments. If preferred, you may
choose to pay half in April and September.
Q: If I wish to pay by cash, cheque or Credit/Debit Card, where can I
pay?
A: Please refer to How To Pay.
Q:What happens if I cannot afford to pay?
A: Please refer to What Happens If I Can’t Or Don’t Pay. If
you are experiencing difficulties with your payments, please contact the
Council Tax Section as soon as possible.
Q:What do I do if I need to speak to someone about my Council
Tax?
A: Please refer to how to contact the Council
Tax Section.
