What is Council Tax?
Council Tax is a system of local taxation collected by local authorities. It is a tax on domestic property. Generally, the bigger the property is, the more tax will be charged. Some properties will be exempt. The tax is dealt with by the local authority ('the council') where you live. They may be able to resolve any of your immediate queries but, if in doubt, seek advice from one of the sources below.
Are students entitled to an exemption or discount?
Most students are entitled to some form of exemption or discount, but this depends on your individual circumstances. For more information on who has to pay council tax and who is exempt, visit the Students' Union Advice and Support Service| in the East Building|. The web pages provided by the Citizens Advice Bureau| are very comprehensive and should answer most of your questions.
What to do if you receive a Council Tax bill
Consult the Students' Union Advice and Support Service|. They can advise you whether or not you are liable, how to register with the local authority and how to apply for an exemption or discount. The local authority will normally ask you to provide a Certificate of Registration| when you apply, as proof that you are an LSE student. This is instantly available to current registered students via LSE for You|. Print the certificate and bring it along with your LSE ID card to the Student Services Centre during open hours |to have it signed and stamped by a member of our staff. If your council also requires a covering letter, you may ask for one at the Student Services Counter at that time.
Alumni seeking a refund from their local authority should contact registry@lse.ac.uk|
International students
The Council Tax rules apply in the same way to all students regardless of nationality. However, if you are a full-time student, you live with your family and no other non-student is sharing your dwelling, you may not have to pay Council Tax, as long as your spouse and children have been admitted to the UK with 'limited leave' as your dependants.
This does not apply if your spouse and/ or children are nationals of a country in the European Economic Area.
Please be advised that the Council Tax regulations are very complex, and this page can only serve as a general guide. For more details, please read the UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) detailed guidance note: Council Tax |