Online Self Service
Our self-service page gives the customer or their appointee instant online access to provide information and to apply for exemptions and discounts at a time convenient to them without the need to visit us, ring us or write to us.
What you can do using self Service:
• Tell us you're moving into the area
• Tell us you're moving out of the area
• Tell us you're moving within the area
• Apply for a Single Person Discount
• Cancel a discount or exemption
• Notify of a bereavement
• Register for e-Billing
• Appeal a Council Tax Penalty
ACCESS THE COUNCIL TAX SELF SERVICE page here.
Council Tax is payable on all domestic property.
The level of Council Tax is determined by separate charges levied by Staffordshire County Council, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Fire Authority, Stafford Borough Council and Parish Councils. Council Tax is collected on behalf of these bodies by Stafford Borough Council. Your bill advises you how much of the Council Tax is paid to each of these organisations.
The amount of Council Tax you have to pay depends on:
• the valuation band your property is in
• the number of people aged 18 or over living in your property
• whether a discount or exemption is appropriate
• whether you qualify for help through Local Council Tax Reduction
When we work out Council Tax we assume that two people, aged 18 or over, live in most properties.
Difficulty in paying
If you are having difficulties making your payments, the first thing you should do is contact us.
You can either ring the Council Tax Helpline Number 01543 464285, contact us online or visit the Council offices where staff will be pleased to assist you.
We may be able to rearrange your instalments to make them more manageable.
How can I reduce my Council Tax bill?
Local Council Tax Reduction
If you have a liability to pay Council Tax and are on a low income or claim benefits, you can apply for Local Council Tax Reduction.
For more information on Local Council Tax Reduction and to find out if you’re eligible please click here
If you would like to make an application for Local Council Tax Reduction please click here:
Online Benefit Forms
Discounts and Exemptions
The Council Tax bill assumes that there are 2 adults (aged 18 or over) living in a dwelling. If you are the only adult living in the property the Council Tax bill is reduced by 25%; this is known as Single Persons Discount. In addition to this, there are certain groups of residents who can be disregarded altogether when counting the number of adults in the household.
Further information on discounts and exemptions.
Exemptions
Some properties may be exempt from Council Tax altogether;
Further information on exemptions can be found here.
Disabled Reduction
If you, or someone who live with you, need an additional room, or additional facilities i.e. an extra bathroom or kitchen, or an extra space in your property to meet special needs arising from a disability you may be entitled to a reduced bill.
Further information on disabled reductions can be found here.
Appeal Council Tax Banding or liability
It may be possible to appeal against the banding of your property, or against liability issues - such as who should pay the bill, or whether a discount should be awarded.
Further information on appeals.