The council recognises that people may be facing financial difficulties because of the impact of the virus but we'd ask everyone who can continue to pay their council tax to do so, as this helps pay for many of the services currently in demand such as health and social care.

However, if you are struggling to afford to pay, then we encourage you to go to https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-council-tax-benefits-and-financial-support/ for more information about some of financial support that’s on offer.

There are options such as reducing monthly payments by spreading the costs over the 11 remaining council tax-paying months, rather than 10. People may also be entitled to help under the Council Tax Reduction Scheme.

If you think you may be eligible for council tax reduction you can apply online at https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/council-tax/council-tax-discounts/council-tax-reduction-low-income/. 

For those struggling to access this support online, or to get more information, the council’s customer services team are on hand to offer guidance. People can contact them by calling 0303 123 1702 or using the webchat function on www.allerdale.gov.uk.