Worried about paying your bills?
Find out what help and support you might be entitled to:
Many people are finding it harder to manage household costs due to rising prices and changes in personal circumstances. If you're worried about paying your bills, there is support available, and it's important to seek help as early as possible.
Whether you're struggling with rent, council tax, household bills or childcare fees, we can help you understand what support may be available and where to get advice.
Drop in events happening throughout July-September 2026, find out more here: Free cost of living support events launched to help Tamworth residents | Tamworth Borough Council
Check what financial help you can get
You may be able to claim benefits or financial assistance to help with your household costs. These could include housing benefits, council tax reductions, or other welfare support. Find out what you might be eligible for and how to apply: Benefits and financial support
Free money advice and support
If you’re worried about money and bills, it can be useful to speak to someone who can guide you through your options. Free, independent support is available for:
Debt management and budgeting - learn how to manage bills and reduce debt
Maximise income – find out what support and benefits are available
Energy bills – advice on how to reduce heating and electricity costs
Financial crisis support – guidance if you’re at risk of losing your home or facing urgent financial difficulties.
Get advice and support: Advice and support
Cost of living support | Staffordshire County Council
Help with housing costs
If you’re finding it difficult to pay your rent or other housing costs, you may be eligible for support. This can include:
Housing benefit – helps people on a low income pay their rent
Discretionary housing payments (DHP) – extra help if housing benefit or universal credit doesn’t cover your rent in full
Homelessness prevention support – advice and help if you are at risk of losing your home.
Apply for support or get advice: Help with housing costs
Understanding your council tax
If you are behind or worried about paying your council tax, it’s important to act early. You may be eligible for a council tax reduction or a payment plan to make your payments more manageable.
Learn more about your council tax bill and your options: Your council tax bill explained
Crisis and Resilience Fund – Housing payments
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a new funding scheme for households, which will be delivered through local councils. The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029.
One of the elements of the CRF is to offer financial assistance to households experiencing a shortfall in their housing costs, helping prevent homelessness or housing instability. Further information about the fund can be found on Staffordshire County Council’s website.
You can apply for a Housing Payment by completing a Housing Payment form and returning it to the Benefits Team at Tamworth Borough Council.
Support for businesses
Local businesses may also be experiencing financial pressures. There may be grants, funding opportunities, advice services, and other forms of support available to help your business remain sustainable.
Business funding and support:
https://www.tamworth.gov.uk/business/help-business/funding-and-support
More ways to save money
There are lots of free tools and local services that can help you cut everyday costs.
Food support
If you're worried about paying for food, help is available.
You may be able to get support from:
- Local food banks and community food projects
- Community pantries offering low-cost groceries
- School holiday food programmes for eligible families
Find food support: Food and essentials | Cost of living support | Staffordshire County Council
Help with childcare costs
You may be able to reduce your childcare costs through government schemes and financial support.
This could include:
- Tax-Free childcare
- Free childcare hours for eligible children
- Universal Credit childcare support
Find out more: 30 hours childcare - Best Start in Life
Save money on fuel
Fuel prices can vary between petrol stations. Free apps can help you find the cheapest fuel nearby.
Popular apps include:
- PetrolPrices
- Waze
Save money on your shopping
Many supermarkets offer free apps with discounts, personalised offers and loyalty rewards.
Popular supermarket apps include:
- Lidl Plus
- Tesco Clubcard
- Asda Rewards
- Morrisons More
- Sainsbury's Nectar
- Aldi UK
These apps can help you save money on your weekly shop.
Help with your mortgage
If you're worried about paying your mortgage, contact your lender as soon as possible. They may be able to:
- Change your payment plan
- Offer a temporary payment holiday or reduced payments
- Explain the support available
Free independent mortgage advice is also available through organisations such as Citizens Advice and MoneyHelper.
Help with energy and utility bills
If you're finding it difficult to pay your gas, electricity or water bills, speak to your supplier as early as possible.
You may be able to get:
- Affordable payment plans
- Hardship grants
- Help through your supplier's support schemes
- Energy efficiency advice to reduce your bills
Water companies may also offer reduced tariffs or payment support for customers on low incomes.
Find energy advice: Home energy help | Tamworth Borough Council
Other ways to get help
If you're finding it hard to manage your money:
- Create a budget to understand your income and spending.
- Prioritise essential costs such as housing, energy, food, and council tax.
- Speak to organisations that offer free and independent debt advice.
- Contact creditors early if you're worried about making payments.
- Seek support before debts become unmanageable.
Don't wait to ask for help
Financial pressures can affect anyone. Seeking advice early can help you access support, avoid additional charges, and improve your financial situation more quickly.
If you're worried about paying your bills, explore the support available through the council and contact us if you need further guidance. We are committed to helping residents access the assistance they need.