Council tax April 2027: what we know
2027/28 bills haven't been set yet. Councils in England set them in February and March 2027, and bills usually arrive in March. Here's what the rules allow, and a calculator to see what a rise means for you.
The limits (England)
Councils need a local referendum to raise council tax above a limit set by the government each year. For 2026/27 the limits were:
| Type of authority | Rise allowed without a referendum, 2026/27 |
|---|---|
| Councils with adult social care (unitaries, counties, metropolitan and London boroughs) | Under 5% (3% core + 2% adult social care precept) |
| Shire district councils | Under 3%, or up to £5 a year (whichever is higher) |
| Police and crime commissioners | Up to £15 on Band D (some £18.50) |
| Fire and rescue authorities | Up to £5 on Band D |
A few councils were allowed more in 2026/27 (between 6.75% and 9%). The government's finance policy statement for 2026/27 to 2028/29 says the core principles (3% core and 2% social care) will be kept over the multi-year settlement. The 2027/28 limits are confirmed each year: provisionally around December 2026, and finally around February 2027. We'll update this page then.
For scale: the average Band D bill in England for 2026/27 is £2,392, up 4.9%. A 4.99% rise on that would be about £119 a year (GOV.UK council tax statistics).
What a rise means for your bill
Wales and Scotland
The referendum limits above are for England. In Wales and Scotland, councils set their own increases under different rules. Check your council's website when the budget is agreed in February or March.
Ways to cut your bill
- Live alone (as the only adult)? Claim the 25% single person discount.
- On a low income or benefits? Apply for Council Tax Reduction from your council.
- Wrong band? Check how council tax bands work before you challenge yours.
- Pay over 12 months to lower each instalment: ask your council.
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How much will council tax go up in April 2027?
It isn't set yet. Councils in England decide in February and March 2027. For 2026/27, most could raise it by just under 5% without a referendum (3% core and 2% social care), and the government plans to keep those principles. The 2027/28 limits are confirmed in the finance settlement.
When do council tax bills arrive?
Usually in March, for the year starting 1 April.
Related calculators & guides
April bill rises checker · Energy price cap Jan 2027 · Split bills with housemates · Free spring money checklist (PDF) · Council tax discount · Council tax bands