Council Tax Fraud Crackdown Announced

A crackdown against people illegally claiming a Council Tax discount they are not entitled to has been launched in East Lindsey.

As part of an amnesty, people living in the District who are claiming the 25% single persons’ discount when they don’t live alone have until November 15, 2011 to declare it – failing to own up will lead to a £70 fine and possible prosecution for fraud.

East Lindsey District Council will shortly check the cases of everyone claiming the discount to make sure that they are entitled to the discount they are receiving.

The crackdown will be done by the Council’s Fraud Team from Compass Point Business Services (East Coast) Ltd working with Northgate Public Services to cross check credit reference agency information against Council Tax records.

This checking process will reveal cases where potentially more than one adult is resident at the property, even though a single adult occupier discount is being claimed.

A similar exercise two years ago was very successful and this time processes have been further refined.

Portfolio Holder for Finance at East Lindsey District Council, Councillor John Upsall: said people should check their Council Tax bills and come forward if they’re claiming a discount they’re no longer entitled to: “While most people are honest and are rightfully claiming the discount – there are others who are not telling us of changes in their circumstances. We are offering the amnesty to encourage those who have made an honest mistake to come forward, so we can then focus on those intent on stealing money from the public purse. I would urge people to come forward and take advantage of this opportunity.”

Residents in East Lindsey can call the Council Tax helpline on 01507 329592. Or, they can email [email protected] or write to East Lindsey District Council, P.O.Box 20, Manby Park, Louth, LN11 8BR.