A Sun investigation reveals that over three million households are owed a combined total of £544 million in council tax refunds. Councils cite various reasons for holding these credits, including transient populations, overpayments, and early payments. The investigation also highlights that many councils use aggressive debt collection procedures for even minor delays in council tax payments, raising questions about fairness and transparency in the system.
OVER three million households are owed a combined total of £544million in council tax refunds, according to a Sun investigation.NOT THE SPIRITSimilarly, Southend-on-Sea has the highest average refund due , but a relatively small total value and number of households affected.The councils listed above have offered various explanations for holding so much in council tax credits.
"Given that some councils use exceptionally aggressive debt collection procedures for even the slightest delay in payment of council tax, I'd argue that the time has come for a single, standardised approach to the collection and management of this tax." The actual amount owed to residents may be higher or lower depending on how frequently each council updates its records.
An LGA Spokesperson said: "Councils strongly recommend that council tax payers keep their accounts and details up to date, and any refunds which are due will be processed accordingly."SETTING up a direct debit for your council tax is one of the simplest ways to avoid overpayments and makes claiming refunds much easier.
If you've recently moved, you'll likely need your old council tax reference number, which you can find on a previous bill. "It's another annoying piece of admin, but this one could leave you more than £100 better off, which isn't a bad return for ten minutes of admin."IF you're struggling with your council tax costs, it's worth checking out whether you're entitled to reduce your tax bill, which can save you thousands of pounds.
COUNCIL TAX REFUNDS LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE OVERPAYMENTS
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Telford & Wrekin Council Faces 'Challenging' Cuts and Council Tax RiseTelford & Wrekin Council warns of 'challenging' cuts and a potential council tax rise to address a growing funding gap. The council has already made significant savings but faces continued pressure from increasing demand for services and a challenging economic climate.
Read more »
Ribble Valley Council Plans Millions in Local Spending Amidst Council Reform TalkRibble Valley Council is proposing to invest millions in local projects like Ribblesdale Swimming Pool and artificial sports pitches, accelerating spending plans in response to potential national council reforms.
Read more »
The end for Preston City Council and Lancashire County CouncilCounty Hall in Preston. Pic: Blog Preston Preston may after today be on course for its most dramatic political shake-up in a generation. While County Hal
Read more »
Council leader 'extremely angry' after government demands hundreds of extra homes a year from Shropshire CouncilA council leader has spoken of her anger at a government decision to hike the number of houses required to be built in Shropshire.
Read more »
Cheshire East Council: 'Significant gap' in council's budgetCheshire East Council is asking residents how it should prioritise spending.
Read more »
Council plans for parking 'tourist tax' at popular Devon holiday hotspot dubbed 'Chelsea-on-Sea'Local businesses in Salcombe have warned that the radical proposal to charge tourists more than locals for parking across the district of South Hams could be 'detrimental' to the town's economy.
Read more »