How Much is Council Tax in Liverpool in 2025?
If you want to sell your Liverpool home quickly, one of the most important things to consider is council tax, especially as it’s changing in 2025. Whether you’re selling a family home in Allerton or a city-centre flat in the Baltic Triangle, prospective buyers will almost certainly include council tax in their budget.
Let’s look at how much council tax will cost in Liverpool in 2025, which band your property may fall into, and what this means for both homeowners and sellers.
What is Council tax?
Council tax is a local government-collected charge on residential properties. It contributes to the funding of essential public services such as garbage collection, social care, policing, fire and rescue, and education. The amount you pay is determined by the valuation band your property falls into, which is based on the home’s estimated value as of April 1, 1991.
In Liverpool, the vast majority of homes fall into Band A (the lowest band), which can benefit the seller. However, council tax has increased this year, resulting in higher bills for all residents compared to 2024.
Liverpool council tax rates 2025/26
Liverpool City Council approved a 4.99% council tax increase in March 2025 as part of its £1.1 billion budget for the fiscal year 2025/26. The increase aims to close a £32 million budget gap while maintaining essential services, particularly adult social care, which now accounts for more than half of the council’s spending.
Here is how the new annual council tax charges appear for each band:
| Band | Property Value (as of 1991) | 2025/26 Annual Charge |
| A | Up to £40,000 | £1,697.63 |
| B | £40,001 – £52,000 | £1,980.57 |
| C | £52,001 – £68,000 | £2,263.50 |
| D | £68,001 – £88,000 | £2,546.44 |
| E | £88,001 – £120,000 | £3,112.31 |
| F | £120,001 – £160,000 | £3,678.20 |
| G | £160,001 – £320,000 | £4,244.07 |
| H | Over £320,000 | £5,092.88 |
These figures include those for adult social care, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue, and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
How does council tax impact house sellers?
Although council tax is typically paid monthly by the person living in the property, it can affect the appeal of your property to potential buyers. A high council tax bill may be off-putting, particularly for first-time buyers or those stretching their budget.
If your property falls into Band A (as many do in Liverpool), you may find it easier to sell quickly because the tax burden is relatively low. If you’re selling a home in Bands E-H, it may be helpful to highlight the property’s size, location, and potential return on investment to justify the higher tax bracket.
Buyers relocating from other regions may also compare council tax rates between areas, so having this information readily available and clearly explained may distinguish your property listing.
Are there any discounts or exemptions?
Yes, Liverpool City Council offers a variety of discounts and exemptions that may benefit buyers. Highlighting these when marketing your property may help reassure budget-conscious buyers.
Here are some common council tax reductions:
- Single Person Discount: If the buyer plans to live alone, they may be eligible for a 25% discount.
- Full-time students are exempt from council tax.
- Disability Reduction Scheme: If the home has been adapted for a resident with a disability, it may be eligible for a reduction.
- Council Tax Support Scheme: Households with low incomes or receiving benefits may be eligible for means-tested assistance. The new 2025 scheme provides 12-month awards to help with budgeting and is better aligned with Universal Credit.
In addition, vacant properties are charged premiums rather than discounts. Homes that have been empty for two years or more are subject to higher charges, up to 300% if they have been unoccupied for ten years.
This is something sellers should be aware of: if your property has been vacant for an extended period of time, potential buyers may face significant fees unless you apply for an exemption.
How is council tax paid?
Liverpool City Council provides flexible payment options to make council tax more manageable for residents.
- Monthly Direct Debit: Choose from various payment dates to spread the cost.
- Online Payment Portal: Make quick and secure payments through the council’s website.
- Automated phone line: A 24-hour payment line is available for your convenience.
- In-Person Payment: Bills can also be paid at post offices or PayPoint locations.
Explaining these options to buyers, particularly those unfamiliar with the area, can remove potential barriers to purchase.
Looking to sell your house quickly in Liverpool?
Then being upfront and informed about council tax is a wise decision. With council tax set to rise by nearly 5% in 2025 and local services under strain, many buyers will want to understand the ongoing costs of city homeownership.
At Sell House Fast, we offer a streamlined solution to these challenges. As one of the UK’s most trusted cash house buyers, we provide a fast and reliable service, allowing you to sell your home without the usual complications. Our team has a strong reputation for professionalism and efficiency, making the process as smooth as possible for sellers in Liverpool.If you’re looking to sell your home quickly and with minimal hassle, get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation cash offer. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
