Cheshire East Council Tax Bands 2025-26: Full Guide
Cheshire East is a unitary authority in the North West of England, covering towns including Macclesfield, Crewe, Congleton, Wilmslow and Nantwich. Like all councils in England, it charges council tax based on property bands set by the Valuation Office Agency — a system last comprehensively revalued in 1991.
Cheshire East council tax rates 2025-26
For the financial year 2025-26, Cheshire East Council approved a council tax increase of 4.99% (the maximum permitted without a referendum). The total charge includes the Cheshire East element plus the precept from Cheshire and Greater Manchester Police and the town/parish council precept where applicable.
| Band | Property value (1991) | Annual charge | Monthly equiv. |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Up to £40,000 | £1,487 | £123.92 |
| B | £40,001–£52,000 | £1,735 | £144.58 |
| C | £52,001–£68,000 | £1,983 | £165.25 |
| D | £68,001–£88,000 | £2,231 | £185.92 |
| E | £88,001–£120,000 | £2,727 | £227.25 |
| F | £120,001–£160,000 | £3,223 | £268.58 |
| G | £160,001–£320,000 | £3,718 | £309.83 |
| H | Over £320,000 | £4,462 | £371.83 |
Note: These figures are illustrative and based on the Cheshire East core charge. Your actual bill will vary depending on your specific parish area. Check your bill or the Cheshire East website for the precise figure for your address.
How the council tax bands work
All residential properties in England were valued in April 1991 by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Your band is based on the estimated market value at that date — not the current value. This means:
- A property worth £300,000 today but £70,000 in 1991 is in Band D
- A property bought for £500,000 today but built on land worth £350,000 in 1991 is in Band H
- Properties built after 1991 are valued on the basis of what they would have been worth in 1991
Council tax reductions and discounts in Cheshire East
Several reductions are available:
- Single occupant discount (25%): If you are the only adult in the property, you receive a 25% discount. Apply through the Cheshire East website.
- Council Tax Reduction (CTR): Low-income residents can apply for a reduction of up to 100% of the bill. Eligibility depends on income, savings, and household composition.
- Student exemption: Properties occupied solely by full-time students are exempt from council tax.
- Severe mental impairment: A permanently severely mentally impaired person is disregarded for council tax purposes.
- Empty property discount: Empty and unfurnished properties may receive a discount for up to six months, after which the full rate (or a premium) may apply.
How to challenge your council tax band
If you believe your property is in the wrong band, you can challenge it with the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Your challenge should be based on evidence that comparable properties nearby are in a lower band, or that the 1991 valuation was incorrect.
Key steps:
- Check neighbouring properties' bands on the VOA website (voa.gov.uk)
- If nearby similar properties are in a lower band, submit a formal proposal to the VOA
- You can appeal to an independent Valuation Tribunal if you disagree with the VOA's decision
Note: A successful challenge moves your band down; an unsuccessful one can occasionally result in a band increase.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Cheshire East council tax bands for 2025-26?
Bands run from A (lowest, up to £40,000 in 1991) to H (highest, over £320,000 in 1991). Annual charges range from approximately £1,487 (Band A) to £4,462 (Band H) for 2025-26, though the exact figure depends on your parish area.
How do I find my council tax band in Cheshire East?
Check your council tax bill, look up your address on the VOA website (voa.gov.uk), or contact Cheshire East Council directly.
Can I reduce my Cheshire East council tax?
Yes. Apply for a single person discount (25%) if you live alone, or a Council Tax Reduction if you are on a low income. Students and those with certain disabilities may qualify for exemptions.
How much is Cheshire East council tax for Band D in 2025-26?
The Band D charge for 2025-26 is approximately £2,231 per year (around £185.92 per month), based on a 4.99% increase from 2024-25. Your exact figure depends on your parish council precept.