Payment Difficulties
Help and advice - Harrogate Borough Council
We recognise that you could be affected by the economic downturn. The following information is provided as assistance during this time.
If you have any difficulties regarding payment of your council tax please contact us to discuss the matter (telephone number 01423 55 66 77). We will be able to:
- Check your account and ensure that you are receiving any applicable discounts or exemptions.
- Provide an 'income and expenditure' questionnaire which will assist you with examining the financial situation of your household. If you wish to carry out your own financial 'health check', the moneysavingexpert website has a budget planner available. (link opens in a new window)
- Discuss flexible payment arrangements
- Discuss the option for you to attend at our offices for a debt counselling appointment with the Citizens Advice Bureau. These clinics are held weekly on a Wednesday afternoon strictly by appointment only.
We will make every effort to accommodate your situation within the legislative guidelines provided.
The council's benefits
online calculator can be used to obtain an instant estimate of whether you may be entitled to council tax/housing benefit.
The
recovery process flowchart (PDF format, link opens in new window) outlines the recovery process used with regard to unpaid council tax and includes the potential costs, which can be accrued due to
non-payment. This chart has not been provided solely as a warning to taxpayers, but can be used as a tool to avoid potential recovery action and the significant costs involved.
Help and advice - other organisations
North Yorkshire County Council have produced a document which is intended to help residents, community organisations and businesses across North Yorkshire know where to go for advice and guidance.
For your convenience, links to key websites mentioned in the leaflet are provided below:
The
DirectGov (link opens in new window) government website provides a central point for citizens to access public services and other information.
Christians Against Poverty, (link opens in a new window), can provide free help and debt advice to anyone in need, irrespective of race, gender or belief.
Harrogate & District Advocacy Scheme is an independent organisation that supports vulnerable and disadvantaged adults. They offer free advice on a confidential basis and have a 'drop-in' centre at the Wesley Chapel, Oxford Street, Harrogate every Wednesday 10:00am to 12:00 noon.