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Worried about paying your Council Tax? 

We understand that times can be tough. If you're struggling to pay your Council Tax, we're here to help. 

Talk to us early 

The sooner you let us know, the more we can do to support you. Call us on 01908 253794 or 01908 254060 (Mon, Tue, Thu – 9am to 5pm) or email counciltax@milton-keynes.gov.uk

We recognise that sometimes households struggle to pay their bills, please get in touch with us if you get into any financial difficulties. Contact us by email or call 01908 253794 or 01908 254060 during office hours. 

Ways we can help

1. Set Up a Payment Plan 

If you’ve received a reminder or court notice, you can arrange a Special Payment Plan by signing into, or registering for, your online Council Tax account. If you aren’t able to access our online service you can call us on 01908 253794 or 01908 254060 (Mon, Tue, Thu – 9am to 5pm) or email counciltax@milton-keynes.gov.uk. . 

2. Apply for Council Tax Reduction 

If you're on a low income or receiving benefits, you might qualify for a Council Tax Reduction. Apply through our Benefits Portal.  

3. Check what other help and support may be available  

Information on the help and support that is available to Milton Keynes residents is available on our cost of living support page.  

If you are not already receiving a benefit, the first thing you should do is make a new claim. Use the benefit calculator to work out which benefit you should claim. 

You can also use this link if you are already receiving a benefit but wish to know if you should claim another benefit, such as Universal Credit  

4. Complete an Income & Expenditure Form 

This helps us understand your situation and find the best solution. Fill it out online

5. Check whether you could get a discount or exemption  

Details of the discounts and exemptions that are available and how to claim are on our website  

What happens if you don’t pay

Council Tax is a priority debt. Ignoring it can lead to: 

  • Court summons 
  • Extra charges 
  • Enforcement action 

Priority debts take precedence over non-priority debts such as credit card payments, hire purchase agreements, catalogue payments, unsecured bank and payday loans.  

Non-priority debts can be put on hold until your priority debt (council tax arrears) is cleared. You can contact your creditors using this non-priority creditor letter template. You'll need to send them a copy of your income and expenditure, as well as your Council Tax bill.  

You should also contact us to let us know so we can discuss future Council Tax payments  

More information about the recovery of Council Tax is available on our website 

Get free debt advice

You can also speak to independent advisors for free: 

  • Citizens Advice Milton Keynes: 0808 278 7991  
  • MK Money Lifeline: 0300 123 5198  
  • Age UK Milton Keynes: 01908 550700  
  • National Debtline: 0808 808 4000  
  • StepChange: 0800 138 1111