How to Notify the Council About Council Tax After a Death
The council needs to know about a death for council tax purposes. There may be an exemption if the property is empty, or a single person discount if you are now living there alone.
Last reviewed: 4 April 2026
What to have ready
- ✓Council tax account number (on the bill)
- ✓Property address
- ✓Deceased’s full name
- ✓Date of death
- ✓Whether the property will remain occupied (by a spouse or other household member) or will be empty
- ✓Tell Us Once reference number (if you used the service)
Phone script
You can read this aloud when you call. Placeholders like [full name] are filled in automatically when you use AfterLoss.
I’m calling about the council tax for [property address], following the death of [full name] on [date of death]. I am the [executor/administrator] of the estate. [If applicable: I used the Tell Us Once service and wanted to confirm you’ve received the notification.] I’d also like to ask about the empty property exemption.
What to ask for
- –Confirm the council has been notified of the death (whether via Tell Us Once or this call)
- –If someone is still living at the property: update the liable person’s name and check whether the single person discount (25% off) now applies
- –If the property is empty: apply for the Class F exemption (England) or equivalent exemption (Scotland, Wales). This provides a council tax exemption for empty properties following a death
- –How long the exemption lasts. In England, an empty property may be exempt before probate while the estate is being administered, and after probate the council may allow up to a further six months if the property remains unoccupied. In Scotland and Wales, rules differ by nation and by council - ask what exemption applies and how long it lasts
- –What documents are needed to apply (death certificate, Grant of Probate in England)
- –Written confirmation of the exemption or account changes
Watch out
In England, an empty property may be exempt before probate while the estate is being administered, and a further exemption period may apply after probate is granted. Rules vary by council, so contact them early to understand what applies. In Scotland and Wales, exemption rules differ by nation and council. Northern Ireland uses a different system (rates) - contact Land & Property Services for equivalent relief.
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Frequently asked questions
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