Problems paying?

Check if you're eligible for the Southwark emergency support scheme.

You may be able to get one or more discounts on your bill, for example if you’re a student, disabled person or foster carer.

You may not have to pay Council Tax if your property is empty or occupied by certain types of people. 

Check if you're eligible for a discount or exemption.

If you’re on a low income or claiming benefits you may be able to apply for a Council Tax Reduction.

We run a service called Step-by-Step to help you reduce your debts with the council.

You can only use this service if you have debts with one or more of the following:

• Council Tax enforcement agents
• business rates enforcement agents
• Housing Benefit overpayment
• rent arrears
• general invoice

How it works

If accepted, we'll consolidate all of these debts. This means we join them together. You then clear them with one regular manageable payment (a recovery payment). 

You'll pay your recovery payment alongside any other ongoing bills (such as rent and Council Tax). 

 Once you've applied to make a payment arrangement we'll let you know in writing if:

• we accept your arrangement proposal

• we need more information – we'll put any recovery on hold during this time

We may ask you to complete a financial statement to assess your income and outgoings.

Apply to make a payment arrangement

You can contact us by:

• calling 020 3929 8455

• email Stepbystep@Southwark.gov.uk

There are several organisations that offer financial advice and support with managing debt:

• Citizens Advice 
• Money Helper
• Step Change