Council Tax East Lothian 2025-26
East Lothian Council · Tax year 2025-26 (April 2025 – March 2026)
East Lothian council tax bands 2025-26
| Band | Property value (1991) | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Up to £40,000 | £1,053 | £88 |
| B | £40,001–£52,000 | £1,228 | £102 |
| C | £52,001–£68,000 | £1,404 | £117 |
| D | £68,001–£88,000 | £1,579 | £132 |
| E | £88,001–£120,000 | £2,075 | £173 |
| F | £120,001–£160,000 | £2,478 | £207 |
| G | £160,001–£320,000 | £2,974 | £248 |
| H | Over £320,000 | £3,869 | £322 |
Scotland: Modified Band Multipliers
Since 2017, Scottish councils apply higher multipliers for Bands E–H, making the system more progressive. Band H in Scotland pays approximately 245% of Band D (vs 200% in England). Scottish Water charges (~£440–£480/year) are billed separately on the same notice.
How East Lothian compares
The average Band D council tax in Scotland is £1,579/year. East Lothian is £0 below average (£0/month less).
Council tax discounts in East Lothian
Frequently asked questions
Can I appeal my council tax band in East Lothian?
Yes — if your property was placed in the wrong band when valued in 1991, you can challenge it through the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) for free. Moving down one band saves £158–£316/year in East Lothian. A successful appeal is backdated — check similar nearby properties that have been revalued.
Do I qualify for Council Tax Reduction in East Lothian?
Council Tax Reduction (CTR) is means-tested and run by East Lothian. You may qualify if you are on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or a low income — reductions can be up to 100% of your bill. There is no automatic entitlement; apply directly to East Lothian council as many eligible households miss out.
How do I claim the 25% single person discount in East Lothian?
If you live alone, contact East Lothian council to claim the 25% single person discount. This saves £395/year (£33/month) on a Band D property. It is not applied automatically — you must request it, even if the council already knows you live alone.
How is East Lothian council tax set?
East Lothian Council sets the annual rate each February/March. The 2025-26 Band D rate of £1,579 includes precepts from police, fire, and (in two-tier areas) county council.
I just moved to East Lothian — how is my council tax worked out?
H) and the number of adults living there. East Lothian's Band D rate is £1,579/year in 2025-26. You pay from the day you move in; contact East Lothian council within 21 days to register, and check whether you qualify for any discounts or reductions.