If you’re struggling to pay your Council Tax, rent or housing costs, support may be available depending on your income and circumstances.

Help with Council Tax

If you’re on a low income, receive benefits or have particular circumstances, you may be able to get help paying your Council Tax through a Council Tax Reduction scheme.

Each district council runs its own scheme, but eligibility checkers can help you find out what support may be available.

Check if you’re eligible for Council Tax Reduction.

If you’re struggling to pay Council Tax and receive Council Tax Reduction, you may be able to apply for additional support through an Exceptional Hardship Fund operated by your district council. Availability and eligibility vary between councils. Check for help and support in your area.

Help with rent and housing costs

You may also be entitled to help with housing costs through Universal Credit, including support with rent and, in some cases, mortgage interest payments.

If you live in supported, sheltered or temporary housing, you may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help pay your rent.

Extra help if your rent is not fully covered

If your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs do not cover your full rent, you may be able to get additional short-term help through a Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment, previously known as a Discretionary Housing Payment.

You may be able to get support if you’re experiencing severe financial hardship or your tenancy is at risk.

These payments are managed by district councils and funding is limited, so support will depend on your circumstances and the funding available.

Contact your local district council to find out more about eligibility and how to apply.

Homeless or at risk of homelessness?

If you’re homeless, worried about losing your home, have been asked to leave your accommodation or are struggling to keep up with rent payments, help is available.

Contact your local district council as soon as possible. They may be able to help prevent homelessness, provide housing advice or help you find accommodation.

If you’re facing a financial crisis, you may also be able to access support through Devon’s Crisis and Resilience Fund.