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Key contacts

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Council tax benefit and other benefits

For families on low income, whether in work, looking for work, retired or in receipt of incapacity benefit, the cost of council tax can raise serious concerns.

If you are on low income, you may be entitled to council tax benefit. If you are disabled or live on your own, you may be entitled to a discount or reduction in your council tax. For more information, contact your District or Borough Council.

More information about council tax benefits can be found on the Directgov website, and independent advice can be obtained from the Citizens Advice Bureau. Their website will enable you to locate the office nearest to you.
 
There are a range of additional benefits targeted at different groups, and every year millions of pounds go unclaimed.
 

You can get advice and guidance about what you might be entitled to from the following organisations
  • Citizens Advice Bureau - visit www.adviceguide.org.uk to find your nearest bureau
  • Benefits Enquiry Line - phone 0800 88 22 00 or visit Directgov for a beginners guide to benefits
  • Age UK - phone 08000 169 87 87 or use their benefits checker
  • Department for Work and Pensions - visit  the DWP website for information on benefits and services.
  • The Pension Service - phone 0845 60 60 265 or visit their website.
  • National Debtline - phone 0808 808 4000 for free, confidential advice on how to deal with debt problem or visit their website: www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
  • Your local district or borough council (for Housing and Council Tax Benefit)

Alternatively, contact your local district or borough council directly:

  • Basildon District Council - 01268 533333
  • Braintree District Council - 01376 552525
  • Brentwood Borough Council-  01277 312500
  • Castle Point Borough Council - 01268 882200
  • Chelmsford Borough Council - 01245 606606
  • Colchester Borough Council - 01206 282222
  • Epping Forest District Council - 01992 564000
  • Harlow District Council - 01279 446655
  • Maldon District Council - 01621 854477
  • Rochford District Council - 01702 546366
  • Tendring District Council - 01255 686868
  • Uttlesford District Council - 01799 510510
  • Southend-on-Sea Borough Council - 01702 215000
  • Thurrock Council - 01375 652652