Do you have council tax arrears? Or received a court summons or liability order?

Council tax and council tax arrears are a priority debt and must be dealt with immediately. If you ignore these you could incur additional costs, bailiff action or possibly bankruptcy or imprisonment.

• Always check your bill.
• You may qualify for discounts. People who live alone usually get 25% off their bill.
• You may be able to pay by instalments, which could be weekly, fortnightly or monthly.
• Ask to have your bill spread over 12 months as this will spread the cost and lower the payments.
• You may qualify for council tax benefit? Call 01296 585168 to make a claim.
• You can pay direct from your wages, call the department on 01296 585096.
• If you have arrears and get Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit or employment support allowance you may be able to a direct deduction £3.40 per week taken out of your benefit.
• If you have been served with a Statutory Demand notice or Bailiffs have called , this will increase your debt and you could lose your car, personal goods and possibly lose your home.

Don’t delay, contact the Housing Debt Advice Team on 01296 585168 or Council Tax on 01296 585096 for help and advice.

Date Updated: 21/02/12