We're here to help
We have a duty to collect Council Tax, but we understand that circumstances can change. If you're struggling to pay, please get in touch, our team will work with you to help find a solution.
If you have fallen behind with your payments and would like to make an arrangement to catch up, you can use our online form below:
Request a Council Tax payment arrangement
Council Tax new contact initiative
We have launched a new initiative to support residents who are behind on their Council Tax payments.
If you are in arrears, you may receive a message from 07478724656. Anyone receiving a message from this number can be assured that it is genuine and they need have no concerns.
We want to make it easier for you to get support, understand your options, and avoid further recovery action. Depending on your response, we will:
- discuss your circumstances and options
- agree a solution
- provide a link to make a payment
If you receive a message from this number, please reply or follow the instructions to get support.
This initiative is powered by artificial intelligence.
Ways to reduce your Council Tax bill
You may be eligable for:
- Council Tax discounts or exemptions
- Local Council Tax Support (also known as Council Tax Relief or Benefit)
Section 13A Discretionary Council Tax Reduction
Section 13A of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 allows Councils to reduce the amount a person is liable to pay.
Requests can only be considered for the current financial year, unless you have recently received a Council Tax bill following a late valuation for a previous year or years.
Please read the Section 13A Framework before making an application, as strict criteria applies.
View the full section 13A framework
How to apply
Applications must be made in writing. You can apply in one of the following ways.
Online
Digital form will soon be available
Apply using a paper application form
You can download and complete an application form.
Return the completed forms:
- by post to: The Revenues Section, Civic Centre, Hartlepool, TS24 8AY, or
- by email to: revenues@hartlepool.gov.uk.
If you would prefer the forms to be sent to you, please use our online contact form to request this.
Please note, you may be required to provide supporting evidence to verify and validate the information you have provided.
Information you will need to provide
The Council will require the applicant to provide financial information relating to household income and expenditure to support the application. No costs will be borne by the Council in the provision of this evidence. The Council reserves the right to verify and validate the financial information provided.
The application must set out the circumstances upon which the request is based and why the reduction is required.
If information or evidence requested has not been received within 21 days of the Council’s request, then the Council will close the application and no award will be made.
Important to know
- the finance burden of S13A discounts has to be met through an increase in the general level of Council Tax for other Council Tax payers.
- section 13A reductions are short‑term support only
- an award is not guaranteed and is not intended as a long‑term way to reduce Council Tax
- we may refuse to award a reduction where lack of information and evidence does not enable the Council to reach an informed decision regarding the applicant’s circumstances.
Contact us
Get in touch with our Council Tax recovery service
Free independent financial advice
You can also access free advice from the following organisations: