Reduce your Council Tax

I am on a low income

Council Tax Support (also known as Council Tax Reduction) is a Scheme to help people on a low income pay their council tax bill, by reducing the amount they have to pay.

The Council Tax Support Scheme for people of pension age is calculated based on a scheme provided to all Local Authorities by Central government - Councils cannot change the principles of this Scheme.

To find out more about the Council Tax Support Scheme for working age customers, open the link below to view the information in detail.

Council Tax Support

Exceptional Hardship Fund Policy (EHF)

The Exceptional Hardship Fund offers short term financial help to customers who are in receipt of council tax support but are struggling to pay their council tax charge.

The principles behind the policy is to help people over a 'short-term' crisis when their income does not meet 'reasonable' expenses.

Please see the EHF policy below for more information. If you think you meet the criteria and wish to apply for additional assistance, please phone the Council on 01237 428700 and speak to an advisor who will talk this through with you.

How do I claim?

Use the online form to Apply for Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Reduction

Find out how to claim or how to backdate your claim.

If there has been a reason which stopped or delayed you applying for housing benefit and/or council tax support you can ask for your claim to be 'backdated' so that it starts from an earlier date.

Report a change of circumstances for Housing Benefits and/or Council Tax Reduction