Frequently asked questions
Do you need a signed lawful contact for council tax?
Some residents consider that council tax is a contract and requires a legal contract and signatures indicating an agreement. Council tax is covered by statute, and a contract is not required.
Is there evidence that I agreed to pay council tax?
No formal agreement or contract is needed to collect council tax.
Can you provide evidence that you have the lawful and contractual authority to use a legal fictional name for making money.
Whether a name is real or fictional it doesn't matter for council tax. The tax is based on who owes it according to specific laws, not the name used. Determined by reference to the Local Government Finance Act 1992 and Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992.
Is there conformation that a council tax debt exists lawfully?
The issue of a council tax demand notice (the bill) creates the debt. A signature or agreement from a resident is not necessary for council tax.
Are documents with wet ink signatures required for council tax?
A signature is not necessary for the billing of council tax and no wet ink signature is mandatory on a court summons either. Previous case law has clarified that the use of a rubber stamp or electronic signature are both valid for the purpose of the court signing a summons.
Does being a Freeman of the Land exempt me from council tax?
Being a Freeman of the Land doesn’t exempt someone from paying council tax. Courts have ruled against this argument.
Do you need VAT details or invoices for council tax?
Council tax isn’t subject to VAT, therefore VAT details or invoices are not provided.
Is TMBC a company or corporation?
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council is a local authority within the Public Sector and does not have a company number.
Is there a true bill complying with the Bills of exchanges Act 1882?
We follow legislation according to the Local Government Finance Act 1992 and Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992
What communication methods are accepted for council tax matters?
Official postal communication is accepted. Anyone who ignores council tax communications or withholds payment will have recovery action taken against them.
What happens if a liability order is granted without my presence or consent?
If you have a dispute regarding the granting of a Liability Order against you then you need to take this up with the Magistrates’ Court.
Can I request a copy of the liability order I received notice for?
Following a court hearing, as list of granted liability orders is made, including names, addresses and amounts owed. This list is kept electronically by both us at TMBC and the court. The liability order itself isn’t a document that can be provided.
Please evidence where I have given my consent authorising Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council to hold my data
Under Regulation 8 of the Data Protection Act 2018 the Authority does not require consent to process data that is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest.
Who has the council shared personal data with?
We share data as required by law for tasks connected to collecting council tax and other official functions. If you think there is an issue you can submit a Subject Access Request, a service to ask about your personal data held by us.
Further information about data sharing can be found at: