‘Total revelation’ as millions won’t have to pay crucial household bill for two months – are you one of them?

MILLIONS of people won’t have to pay a key household bill for two months from February.

This is because council tax is usually paid over 10 months instead of 12.

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If you pay your council tax in 10 instalments, you’ll be rewarded with 60 days where you don’t need to fork out.

This falls in February and March and means you won’t get a bill in these months.

Check your latest council tax bill to find out if you pay in this way.

Your bill will tell you exactly how much you must pay annually.

It will also tell you how your council tax is worked out and the dates you must pay.

Your total annual bill is the same – it’s just the period you pay it over that is different.

For example, a £1,200 annual bill could be paid as £100 a month over 12 months or as £120 over 10 months with two months off.

Martyn James, consumer rights expert, said: “The mystery of why we pay council tax in 10 month chunks is something people are vaguely aware of.

“But as soon as you realise you can opt for 12 months and cut your bills, it’s a total revelation!

“With the money so tight for many at the moment, this is a fantastic way to cut cash from your outgoings each month.”

Can I change the way I pay council tax?

If you’d like to change to pay for your council tax across 12 months instead of 10, or vice versa, you can contact your local council.

They should be able to set up a new payment schedule for you.

You can use the Gov.UK council locator tool if you don’t know what council area you fall under.

You might even have the option to pay twice a year, every two weeks or as a lump sum once a year.

But of course, what your options are will depend on where you live.

Can I get a council tax discount?

Local authorities can offer you a discount or wipe your bill completely, depending on your circumstances.

Your household income, whether you have children and if you are on benefits will influence what you get off.

You can apply for a council tax discount through the Government’s website.

But bear in mind you’ll need your National Insurance number, bank statements, a recent payslip or letter from the Jobcentre and a passport or driving licence to hand.

If you don’t know which local authority you live in you can check by using the Government’s council locator tool.

Single people

You can get a 25% discount on your council tax if you are the only person living in the home or live with other people who are “disregarded”.

Someone is classed as disregarded if they are severely mentally impaired, a carer, in hospital, a care home or hostel, has another main residence, or is a student, youth trainee or apprentice.

For example, if one single adult lives with a student, they can get 25% off their council tax.

If you live with someone who doesn’t have to pay council tax, such as a carer, you could get a reduction of up to 50% too.

And, if you live in an all-student household, you can get a 100% discount.

Retirees

Pensioners can also get a council tax discount, including those on the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit who can get 100% off.

If not, you could still get help if you have a low income and less than £16,000 in savings.

Meanwhile, a pensioner who lives alone also qualifies for a 25% discount.

Low-income households

Low-income households or those on benefits can also apply for a reduction on their council tax.

Whether you are eligible depends on where you live.

You could also get a deferral if you’re struggling to pay your bill, or you can speak to your council about setting up a payment plan to manage the cost.

Always remember, though, if you are struggling, you should contact your council as early as possible.

That will prevent your situation from deteriorating and landing you in trouble.

This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk