Apply for a Hardship Payment
Hardship Payments provide extra financial help with your council tax.
We have a limited amount of money each year to support those who need extra financial support.
You can apply for this payment if your Council Tax Reduction does not cover your full bill.
Who can apply
You can apply for a Hardship Payment if you’re receiving Council Tax Reduction.
You’ll need to explain why you need extra help with your council tax.
We’ll look at:
- your savings
- if there is anyone in the household that could provide financial help
- whether you have any debts
Payments are usually given for a short time only. They’re for people who are working to improve their situation such as looking for work or finding long term financial solutions.
How to apply
You’ll need:
- your national insurance number
- your Council Tax Reduction reference number
- details of anyone who lives with you, including their income
- details of your income and expenses
- details of any debts that you’ve or are repaying
Make sure you have all the information you need before you start.
You may be asked to provide evidence when you apply.
What happens next
We’ll look at your application and decide if we’re going to give you a Hardship Payment.
If we need any more information, we’ll let you know.
We’ll write to you when we have made our decision.
If you’re successful, the Hardship Payment will be credited to your council tax account.
If you disagree with the decision
You can ask us to review the decision by sending us a letter explaining why you disagree.
Write to us at:
Revenues, Benefits and Transactional Centre
The Benefits Service
Lynton House
255 - 259 High Road
Ilford Essex
IG1 1NN
