Money Saving Expert advice can save thousands on your Council Tax

You can claim back huge refunds, reduce your payments or even cut Council Tax to zero

People across the UK could cut thousands of pounds from their Council Tax Bills - according to the Money Saving Expert website.

The site, founded by Martin Lewis, says there are a number of tricks, tips and hacks people can use to slash the cost of their monthly bill.

The advice will come as great news to many who are struggling as household incomes have dropped during the coronavirus lockdown.

In an email sent to subscribers, a spokesman for the site said: "Typical bills are £1,000+/yr, yet many wrongly assume they have to pay it in full as a done deal without considering the ways to slash it."

According to the site up to 400,000 people across the country are in the wrong Council Tax band - meaning they are paying the wrong amount.

MSE has a council tax check and challenge system for those in England and Scotland and if you're in too high a band, you can reclaim past overpayments and get reductions in future.

One woman said after querying her tax band she got a £3,000 refund.

Those currently struggling thanks to coronavirus may be able to get a council tax payment holiday and those on benefits or low income can get up to 100% off.

There are also discounts for those with 'severe mental impairments' including conditions such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons. The site has a section on SMI discounts - which can cut your bill to zero.

MSE says anyone living alone, with a child or with a carer can get 25 per cent off and claim a refund for past years paid in full - see the single person discounts guide.

You can also get discounts and refunds if you have moved since 1993 ( claim back overpayments ) or if you are disabled or caring for someone who is (you could drop a band )

In England you can ask to pay over 12 months rather than 10 - dropping your monthly payments, according to MSE - see the guide on how to spread payments.

Those on pension credits can get pension credit help and students can get student help.