Council tax notifications have begun arriving at households nationwide in recent days, informing residents of upcoming bill increases starting in April. The majority of financially strained local authorities are intending to raise council tax by the maximum allowable percentage, currently set at 4.99%, without the requirement for resident referendums.

Many councils argue that the hikes are essential to sustain services such as waste collection, libraries, and recreational facilities amidst challenging financial circumstances. However, select local authorities, including Worcestershire County Council under Reform control, have received government approval to exceed the maximum rate. Other councils granted this permission include Trafford, Warrington, North Somerset, Shropshire, and Worcestershire, with increases ranging from 6.74% to nearly 9%.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government emphasized that councils hold responsibility for their tax levels and should strive to minimize burdens on working individuals. The government has allocated £78 billion for local finances next year, with the majority of funds unrestricted to enable local leaders to allocate resources based on their community’s priorities.

To determine the anticipated rise in council tax rates effective April 1, 2026, residents can input their postcode and council tax band into the searchable widget below. Properties are categorized into bands ranging from A to H, reflecting their value as of April 1, 1991. The Band D rate, considered the average home value, is used as a reference point for calculating individual tax liabilities.

Council tax comprises various “precepts” imposed by different authorities, each increasing at varying rates to cover local services like fire and police departments, as well as social care. Our calculations are based on the predominant section of the bill – the social care authority charge – issued by County, Metropolitan Borough, London Borough, or Unitary councils, depending on the resident’s location.

Certain groups are eligible for council tax discounts or exemptions, but households with mixed statuses may still be liable for the full rate. Eligibility for discounts can be confirmed through the provided link.

Though the data is sourced from official council documents, figures are subject to change. Individuals can request updates by contacting the specified email addresses with the subject line ‘Council Tax’.

The search tool was developed by David Dubas-Fisher of the Reach Data Unit.