Make a Council Tax appeal

How to appeal a Council Tax decision

If you disagree with a decision about Council Tax relating to liability, discounts, reductions for disabilities, or exemptions, you can appeal. This applies if you are:

• the person liable to pay the Council Tax for the dwelling
• the person who would be liable if the dwelling were not exempt
• the owner of the dwelling

Remember, you can't appeal the set amount of Council Tax or if you can't pay. You must pay your bill while your appeal is being processed.

For issues related to court summons, court costs, or a liability order, contact our Recovery Team by emailing recovery@oxford.gov.uk or calling 01865 252856. If unresolved by the court date, you can raise it at the Magistrates Court.

Appeals about court matters sent to us will be forwarded to our Recovery Team.

Appeal process

The appeal process involves three stages:

1. first, appeal to either the Listing Officer or Oxford City Council, depending on the issue
2. if unsatisfied, appeal to the Valuation Tribunal - they hold informal hearings attended by you and either us or the Listing Officer
3. if still unsatisfied, you can appeal to the High Court on a point of law

Make an appeal

Make a Council Tax appeal online

Alternatively you can appeal in writing, clearly marking your letter as an appeal.

Time limits

We have two months to consider your appeal. If we don't respond within this time, appeal directly to the Valuation Tribunal within four months of your original appeal. If you disagree with our decision, appeal to the Tribunal within two months of our response.

Council Tax Banding appeals

For banding appeals, contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Visit VOA on GOV.UK or call 03000 501501. Learn more about challenging your band at Challenge your Council Tax band on GOV.UK.