Council tax arrears

If you miss a council tax instalment then we'll contact you to arrange payment.

Help making payments

There are a number of options if you are struggling to pay:

Spread the cost of your instalment by Direct Debit - Direct Debit payments can be set up even if you've had a final notice and lost the right to pay by instalments. You must contact us before the final payment date on your letter and you'll only get the remaining number of instalments available in the current financial year.

Check if you're entitled to a discount or exemption - you could qualify for a reduction or exemption in certain situations such as if you're on a low income or disabled.  

Citizens Advice Scotland provide a tool that can help you work out whether you are exempt from having to pay council tax or you are eligible for a discount or reduction in your bill.  

Problems paying Council Tax?

Let us know if you're worried about, or are having difficulties, making your Council Tax payments or you're in arrears, call us for confidential advice and support.

Contact us as soon as you realise you're having problems paying.

Reminder notice

You'll receive a letter if you miss your monthly council tax instalment and we'll ask you to pay the outstanding amount within 7 days. If we need to send reminders for two missed payments then you will receive a final notice.

Final notice

You'll get a final notice if you fall behind on instalments. We'll stop instalments and ask for full payment of any money owed plus the amount due for the rest of the financial year.  You won't receive a reminder first if it's your final instalment.

Legal recovery action

If you fail to pay your council tax bill, we will add a 10% charge to the amount due and take legal action to recover what you owe us. Further action to recover debt can include:

  • Arresting your bank or building society account
  • Arresting your wages
  • Taking deductions from your benefits
  • Petitioning the court for sequestration which could mean your house is repossessed
Page last updated: 03/08/2022
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