Council Tax and Misinformation

We are aware that taxpayers may sometimes be misled by online groups or social media posts claiming that council tax is optional or that declaring yourself a “freeman” removes your obligation to pay. These claims are false and have no legal basis.

If you’ve encountered this kind of advice, you may have been the victim of a scam or misinformation. We want to help clarify the facts and support anyone who may be unsure about their responsibilities.

Your Legal Obligation to Pay Council Tax
Council tax is a legal requirement under the Local Government Finance Act 1992, this law gives local councils the authority to collect council tax to fund vital public services.
 
Your liability to pay council tax is not based on personal consent or a contract with the council. It applies to all eligible residents, regardless of personal beliefs or declarations.

The Risks of Following False Advice
Refusing to pay council tax based on misinformation can lead to you incurring additional costs and serious consequences, including:
• Legal enforcement action
• Court proceedings

Need Help or Advice?
If you have any questions about your council tax liability or have concerns about information you may have received, please contact us. We are here to provide clear, accurate guidance and support.