Struggling to pay your Council Tax

If you can’t afford to pay your Council Tax, you can claim for Council Tax Support which may meet some or all of your Council Tax bill payments.  

Please note that from 2024/25, the CTS scheme is changing from a means-tested scheme to an income banded scheme, simplifying the calculation of CTS for applicants. 

You could also apply for a Council Tax discount or exemption if you meet certain criteria.

Financial help and budgeting advice

Our online budget calculator can help show you what benefits you may be entitled to and our Money and Debt advice page has more further information on local services on offer.  You can also access free and independent debt advice through the government sponsored MoneyHelper.

BD Money

The BD Money (Barking and Dagenham Money) website offers free, expert money advice.  They also offer a Debt Consolidation Loan which can help with debts such as credit cards.

We’re here to help you

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are unable to make your Council Tax payment on time, we will always try do what we can to help you.