There are various ways you can get support with your Council Tax
- spreading your payments over 12 months instead of 10 months. You can do this by updating your details on My Council Tax account or by contact Council Tax directly via 300 303 or visiting a Customer Service Centre
- ask to pay by weekly instalments. This can be done using My Council Tax account or by contact Council Tax directly via 300 303 or visiting a Customer Service Centre. If you do set up your own payment plan through a Standing Order, you must advise Council Tax of this so they can amend your account accordingly
Extreme Financial Hardship
We have the discretionary power to reduce a liability for council tax. This is where you can prove you are in exceptional grave hardship and have had all other possible -
- discounts
- disregards
- exemptions
- reductions
Further information on specific exemptions can be found on -
- students and young people
- disability relief, SMI and carer's
- single person discount
- other discounts and exemptions
The reduction can apply to an individual, or a group of people. An application can be made for any domestic property where Council Tax is chargeable.
The amount of reduction is decided by us. It is intended to be for short term temporary assistance. The cost of reducing the amount of Council Tax, under these discretionary powers, is met by us. It is at the expense of all of the city’s Council Taxpayers.
Each application is treated on its own individual merits. It must show evidence of exceptional grave hardship. You must satisfy us that you have taken all reasonable steps to resolve your situation before making an application. You must provide supporting evidence. This can include the following evidence -
- a letter from a professional to support your grave hardship
- evidence of all income received
- proof of savings, investments, and property owned
- evidence of any arrears
The amount outstanding must not be the result of any intentional non-payment.
You can make a claim. To do this, download, complete, and return the Discretionary Council Tax reduction application form.
Other financial help and support
If you are having financial difficulties and need further support, you can visit: