Guides
Plain-language guides to common UK letters and situations, with deadlines, steps and free letter templates. Based on GOV.UK and Citizens Advice.
- Council tax reminder and final notice: what happens next
You got a council tax reminder or final notice. You usually have 7 days to pay. What happens next, how to ask for help, and what to do. GOV.UK.
- HMRC Simple Assessment letter: what it means and what to do
A Simple Assessment is an HMRC tax bill for a past year. How to check it, when to pay (31 January 2027 or 3 months), and what to do if it looks wrong.
- Is this HMRC letter real? 7 checks
Not sure if an HMRC letter, text or email is real? Seven simple checks, what HMRC never does, and where to report a scam. Based on GOV.UK.
- Mandatory reconsideration: what it is and how to ask (template)
Mandatory reconsideration is asking the DWP to look at a benefit decision again. Usually within 1 month. What to write and send, plus a free template.
- Section 8 notice: what it means and what to do (after the Renters' Rights Act, from 1 May 2026)
A section 8 notice says your landlord wants you to leave. It is not an order. Notice periods by reason, the court step, and what to do first. England.