Hackney money help and advice

All households in Council Tax Bands A to D as of 1 April 2022 are entitled to £150 cash payment regardless of income.

Households in Council Tax Bands E to H also are entitled to £150 if they are in receipt of Council Tax reduction.

This support from the Government is only available until the end of September. Only 50% of Hackney households have claimed so far.

Applying online takes less than 5 minutes. Visit Council Tax rebate to apply.

We know that thousands of people in Hackney are not getting all the income entitled to them from the government.

To avoid missing out, check what you are owed and then claim.

If you are in financial difficulty, we may be able to reduce your Council Tax.

To find out if we can help you, see Council Tax reduction claim.

If you find the online applications are difficult, you can call us on 020 8356 3111, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.

There are options open to you if you owe money to:

• credit card company
• bank
• lender
• family and friends
• landlord
• Council

You can get independent advice that is focused on getting the best possible outcome for you.

You can speak to a completely independent organisation by visiting Money Helper or calling 0800 138 7777 for free, confidential advice.

If you are struggling to pay your Council Tax and have difficulties managing debts, you can call us on 020 8356 3154.

We can help.

Get in touch whether you live:

• in a Council property
• a social property
• with family and friends
• renting from a private landlord

If you are worried about losing your home, find out how we can help see housing options and advice or call 020 8356 2929.

We know that the cost of living crisis has made it hard to make ends meet for thousands of families in Hackney.

We can help:

• If you are pregnant or have a young child, check what help you can get to buy food and milk – see Healthy Start.
• If entitled, claim free childcare for your 2 to 4 year olds – see Hackney education and schools.
• Check if your child could get a free hot lunch everyday.

• If you receive Council Tax reduction, you can claim an extra £75 to help with fuel costs. We will pay this to you automatically when you have applied for your £150.
• Check if you are missing out on pension credit. This is worth up to £3,000 a year and can get you free dental treatment and a free TV licence.
• Find services in your community via Find Support Services such as Lunch Clubs.

• If you are receiving Council Tax reduction, you can claim an extra £30 cash payment when you apply for your £150 Council Tax rebate payment. See Council Tax rebate.
• If you are struggling with shortfalls between benefits and your rent – you may be eligible for a discretionary housing payment.
• If you receive Council Tax reduction and are still struggling with your Council Tax bill you may be eligible for a hardship payment.
• In a crisis or emergency you may be eligible for help from the Hackney Discretionary Crisis Support Scheme. Awards are usually only made in exceptional circumstances.The scheme can help with furniture, white goods and essential items.