TRADING STANDARDS MESSAGE 15 August 2013 Council tax rebates We have started getting reports of a company contacting mainly elderly residents about a reduction in council tax. They are currently in the Farnworth area but are likely to move to other areas of the Borough. They claim that you are in the wrong council tax band and that they can get you in a lower one. They try and make an appointment to discuss their services and they charge around £150. There have been indications that some residents may have been led to believe the company is connected to, or working with, an official government agency or the Council. THIS IS NOT TRUE. This company has no connection whatsoever with any government agency, local authority or other official body. Please be aware that no private company can guarantee you will be moved to a lower council tax band. Please also be aware that you can ask this trader to leave at any time and not to return. It’s a criminal offence if they fail to adhere to your request. You can also cancel any appointment if you wish to. There is no need to employ anyone if you want to enquire about or challenge your council tax band. Anyone can do this for themselves free of charge. The vast majority of council tax bands are correct but if you feel yours is wrong then contact the Valuation Office Agency and explain why you think it is incorrect. You will be asked to confirm that the details held about your home are correct. They will listen to your views and if they agree that the band is wrong, will change it. Beware: Bands can occasionally go up as well as down. To have your council tax band checked free of charge, contact the Valuation Office Agency on 03000 501 501. Alternatively go to voa.gov.uk where you can also find out lots of useful information about grounds for challenging your band. Please report any incidents to our partners at Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 040506 or go to adviceguide.org.uk Please pass this information to family members, friends, neighbours and anyone you think maybe vulnerable. Bolton Trading Standards [email protected]
Posted on: Thu, 15 Aug 2013 18:45:51 +0000
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