Notifying Council Tax of a Death
Everything you need to let Council Tax know, including their dedicated bereavement number, the documents to have ready, and how long it usually takes. Their team handle these calls every day and will be patient with you.
Online Form
No online form available. Use the phone number or post instead.
Typical Timeline
Exemptions and discounts apply from the date of death. In England the Class F exemption runs until 6 months after the grant of probate; in Wales it is 12 months.
How to notify Council Tax
Tell Us Once: Covers council tax across England, Scotland and Wales (Northern Ireland has domestic rates instead, and no Tell Us Once)
Direct: Contact your local council's council tax department
Notify within a month if possible
Documents you will need
- Date of death
- Property address
- Details of any remaining occupants
What to say when you call
You do not need to explain anything at length. A short, straightforward call is all this takes. If it helps, read the words below straight off the screen. Nobody will mind.
"Hello, I am calling to notify you of a death. The account holder was [full name], and the date of death was [date]."
"I am their [relationship, e.g. son/daughter/executor]. My reference number from the death registration is [Tell Us Once reference number, if you have one]."
"Could you let me know what documents you need and what the next steps are?"
The bereavement team will take it from there and guide you through the rest. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details beside you before you ring.
Additional information
- Class F exemption (England): a property left empty since the death is exempt until 6 months after the grant of probate. Note the 6 months runs from the GRANT, not from the date of death, and before a grant there is no time limit at all
- Wales differs since 1 April 2026: exempt while no grant has been obtained and the second anniversary of the death has not passed, or for 12 months after the grant
- Scotland: broadly matches England at 6 months after confirmation
- Northern Ireland has domestic rates rather than council tax. There is 100% relief where a personal representative is responsible, but it must be applied for and is not automatic
- The exemption ends early if the property is sold or transferred to a beneficiary, even if it stays empty
- Single person discount: if one adult remains, a 25% discount applies from the date of death
- Rented properties: exempt from the date of death until the tenancy ends
- Executor not personally liable; council tax is paid from the estate
- Contact your specific local council for their process
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify Council Tax of a death?
You can let Council Tax know through their bereavement process. Their bereavement page has the full details. Have the death certificate ready before you start.
What documents does Council Tax need for bereavement?
Council Tax usually asks for: Date of death, Property address, Details of any remaining occupants. It helps to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals are sometimes held on to for a while.
How long does Council Tax take to process a bereavement?
Exemptions and discounts apply from the date of death. In England the Class F exemption runs until 6 months after the grant of probate; in Wales it is 12 months.
Need to write to Council Tax?
Use our ready-made template letters to notify banks, utilities, and other organisations. Just fill in the details and send.
View Template Letters