The Council Tax

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Connor Estes
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The old saying goes...."two things in life are inevitable; death and taxes." For those in the UK, taxes include a high Value Added Tax rate, road tax, TV licence fees, and a council tax on the property that one rents or owns.

Luckily, U.S. military members and civilian employees here on orders are exempt from paying for, or are reimbursed for some of these fees. One tax that members are exempt from is the council tax.

For those that live on base there is nothing to worry about because base housing does not have council tax. Members living off-base must file an exemption form with the local council in their area to obtain exemption under the visiting forces exemption code.

"The exemption extends to anyone living in the same residence of the exempted person, including British spouses," said Capt. Adam Delph, 48th Fighter Wing legal office, chief of claims and legal assistance.

One important thing to remember in regards to council tax is to always respond to correspondence from the council.

"It's imperative to check all mail, even if it's addressed just to the occupant, to ensure that you see everything that comes in from the council," said Karen MacKay, 48th Fighter Wing legal office, host nation liaison. "Many people throw away forms from the council because they think it's junk mail. If you don't respond to correspondence in a timely manner to let the council know you're still at the address and that you're still visiting forces exempt, you can end up with a bill for the tax and a court summons for nonpayment."

MacKay is currently working to help more than 130 military members and civilians clear up such misunderstandings.

Capt. Delph added, "Every time a sponsor moves into a residence off-base, they should ask the landlord, agent, or housing office for details on the local council. The council will send a registration form, which will include the eligibility for exemption list and an application for exemption. The form should be sent back to the council with the correct exemption code indicated, along with a copy of your orders."

Regardless of exemption status, the local council sends all residences a council tax bill every February through April.

Taxes are inevitable, part of life and no one likes to pay them. Take advantage of the Status of Forces Agreement between our two governments. Follow a few simple steps to prevent unnecessary headaches and keep money in your pocket.