What is council tax and how is my money spent?
Council tax helps to pay for local services.
Although we are responsible for collecting council tax, nearly four fifths of that money is distributed to other organisations providing services for the community.
These include Kent County Council, the Office of the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Kent Fire and Rescue Service - as well as town and parish councils.
Those living in Folkestone or Sandgate also pay a small portion to the Folkestone Parks and Pleasure Grounds Charity. This helps support the delivery and upkeep of recreational facilities and open spaces in the area.
You'll see the biggest share - equivalent to nearly 70% - goes to Kent County Council.
This money is spent on social care, children's services, public health, highways, education, libraries, community wardens and waste infrastructure.
So what does Folkestone & Hythe District Council's portion go towards? Well, we are responsible for:
- Street cleansing
- The household waste and recycling collection service
- Parks and open spaces
- Housing benefits
- Council tax reduction schemes
- Elections
- Environmental health
- Planning and building control
- And many other community-based services
Our budget is set ahead of the financial year to ensure we can continue to provide the best possible services for all of our residents and businesses.
A consultation is held during December and January to make sure everyone has the chance to have their say on the proposals before councillors make a decision.
How can I pay my council tax and what support is available?
Council tax is a charge levied on a household and is based on a valuation band for the property you live in - whether that's rented or owned. This money is then spent on the cost of supplying services.
We don't determine what valuation band your property falls within but can point you in the right direction if you wish to make an appeal to the Valuation Office.
Although we are responsible for collecting council tax, nearly four fifths of that money is distributed to other organisations providing services for the community.
The bill can be paid in full or you can split the cost into monthly instalments via direct debit. Alternatively, you can:
- Visit our website
- Call our contact centre
- Make a bank transfer
- Or head to your nearest post office, bank or PayPoint
You will receive your annual council tax bill through your letterbox in March. If you would prefer a digital version via email instead then please visit our MyAccount service.
MyAccount allows you to report, apply or pay for council services at the click of a button - whether that be on your laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Around half of the district's residents have now registered for MyAccount since it was launched in August 2020.
The full cost of your council tax bill is based on at least two adults living in a property. Discounts can be applied depending on your circumstances.
These might include if you're living alone, a full-time student, disabled or on a low income. If you think you might be entitled to a discount then get in touch.
For more information about council tax and what you need to do if you've recently moved to ensure you're paying the correct amount visit our website.