Exceptional hardship
If you are suffering extreme financial hardship as a direct result of the implementation of the Local Council Tax Reduction Banded Scheme, you can make an application for a section 13A exceptional hardship award.
To apply for Exceptional Hardship, you must show that you are struggling to pay the extra Council Tax you are required to pay, not just because your reduction has changed. We will ask for evidence of your household expenses as part of the assessment.
We offer a range of financial support for residents facing money difficulties, and in some cases other types of help may be more suitable. When you apply, we will look at your income and essential expenses to understand whether you can afford the additional Council Tax.
We may also refer you to organisations that can provide further help. For example, Citizens Advice can support you with debt advice, budgeting, and checking whether you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to.
If you are not working, we may suggest you contact our Working Well service, which offers support with employment, wellbeing, debt, and barriers to work. You can find details by searching Working Well North Tyneside.
If you are a council tenant, we may refer you to our Tenancy and Financial Support Service in Housing. They can help with budgeting, benefits advice, and any rent issues you may have.
Council Tax Reduction Exceptional Hardship Payment application form.