Switching to paperless billing is a faster, more efficient and convenient option. With paperless billing you can view your bills electronically and download and print your bill if needed.

Registering for paperless billing means you will not receive a bill in the post, instead we will send you an email to tell you when a new bill has been linked to your online account for you to view. Choosing paperless billing helps us cut down printing and postage costs so we have more money to spend on other services.

You will need to register for an online account to be able to view your bills online. If you do not register when requesting paperless billing, you will need to register for an online account later.

Switch to paperless billing

Direct Debit is the simplest and most convenient way for you to pay Council Tax – you won’t miss a payment, and you’re protected against mistakes, under the terms of the Direct Debit Guarantee.

To set up a Direct Debit, you’ll need your Council Tax account reference number (which you can find on your Council Tax bill) and your bank account number and sort code.

If you already have a Direct Debit set up you can amend this. For example, you can choose from four different dates in the month to pay and you can choose to pay in either 10 or 12 instalments.

The easiest way to set up a Direct Debit and make changes is to do it online.

Set up or amend a Direct Debit

Go to How to pay your Council Tax for other payment options. 

You may be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax if:

• you are the only occupier aged over 18 in your property
• if you are a student, or if you have a student living with you
• if you are severely mentally impaired
• if you have someone who has a severe mental impairment living with you 

You may also be able to apply for Council Tax Support (also known as Council Tax Reduction) which is a discount that helps people who are on a low income or are claiming certain benefits to pay their Council Tax bill.

You can find further guidance on our discounts and exemptions page.

If you are moving into, within, or out of the Borough it’s important that you let us know. 

Residents

Tell us about a change in address

Landlords

Tell us about a change in tenancy 

There are two ways to tell us about a name change. For both options you will need to have your Council Tax account reference number from your bill and give us at least one contact telephone number.

1. Register for an online account and select the option 'contact us about your account' once you have registered and logged in.
2. Upload a document online (you do not need an online account to do this).

I have changed my name

You can now upload documents relating to your Council Tax online. 

You will need to provide your:

• postcode 
• Council Tax account number as it appears on your latest bill or recovery notice
• contact phone number or email address 

You can upload document such as, bank statements, tenancy agreement, student certificate or payslips.

Upload a document online

You can check the Council Tax band of any property within Bedford Borough. 

Check your Council Tax band