Support to help you pay your Council Tax

We have a duty to collect Council Tax, however, we recognise that many people will have periods of financial difficulty and may need help.

If you're having trouble managing your money, get free and impartial Debt advice and financial help which can help you maximise your income.

Payment arrangements

If you are behind on your Council Tax payments, then we may be able to set up a payment arrangement. To do this you may be asked to complete a Policy in Practice - Better Off Calculator. Policy in Practice are a partner who will ask you a few simple questions about your situation and check if your household may be entitled to any additional benefits to maximise your income.

Once complete, submit and the information you have provided will be shared with us, we will then review your information and contact you about your Council Tax account. If you prefer you can contact our council tax recovery team once you have made your submission.

The information you provide using the Better Off Calculator is protected and held by Policy in Practice and Durham County Council. Why we collect information about you, what we collect and who it is shared with is explained on our Privacy notices and data protection page and on the Policy in Practice - privacy notice page.

If you are registered to View your Council Tax account online and are behind with your bill there are repayment arrangement options available by logging into your account.

Council Tax Reduction Scheme

Apply for our Council Tax Reduction Scheme if you're on a low income.

Financial hardship relief

Apply for council tax hardship relief to temporarily reduce your Council Tax bill if you're struggling to pay.