Disability Council Tax Exemption 2025 Update

Written by admin on April 15, 2025. Posted in News.

Council Tax Exemption

For many households across the UK, council tax represents a significant monthly expense. However, if you or someone you live with has a disability or severe mental impairment, there may be a way to ease that financial pressure. The latest 2025 updates highlight important information on how you could qualify for a council tax exemption or reduction – potentially saving you hundreds of pounds each year.

Council tax is charged by local authorities and helps fund essential services such as waste collection, street maintenance, and local policing. The amount you’re billed depends on your home’s valuation band and your council’s specific charges. But not everyone is liable to pay the full amount, and some individuals are legally “disregarded” in the calculation.

Who Qualifies for a Council Tax Exemption?

If you’re diagnosed as severely mentally impaired (SMI), you may be completely exempt from paying council tax. Conditions that fall under the SMI category include:

Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia
Parkinson’s disease
Learning disabilities
Severe stroke after-effects
Multiple sclerosis

It’s important to note that a medical diagnosis is required. You’ll also need a signed certificate from your doctor confirming your condition, along with evidence of eligibility for certain benefits, such as Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Council Tax Exemption, How Much Can You Save?

If you’re the only adult in your home and are classed as SMI, you can receive a 100% exemption. If everyone else in the property is either disregarded or also severely mentally impaired, the full bill can be waived. In situations where some residents are counted and others aren’t, discounts of 25% to 50% may apply.

You might also be eligible for a disability reduction if your home has been adapted for accessibility – such as an extra room for a carer, modified kitchen or bathroom, or extra space for wheelchair use. If you qualify, your bill will be lowered to the next lowest council tax band. For homes already in Band A, a 17% discount is applied instead.

Who Else Can Be Disregarded?

Aside from those with SMI, the following people may be excluded from the council tax calculation:

Under 18s
Full-time students or apprentices
Student nurses
Young people under 25 on certain training schemes
Foreign language assistants with the British Council
Live-in carers (not caring for a spouse or child)
Diplomats

What Should You Do Next?

If you think you or someone in your household qualifies for council tax exemption, don’t delay. Check your local authority’s guidelines and prepare the necessary documentation. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, or need help applying, our advisors are here to assist you every step of the way.

👉 Apply now for help with a council tax

At Council Tax Advisors, we help individuals and families across the UK access the discounts and exemptions they’re entitled to. Whether you need guidance with an application or want to challenge your council tax banding, we’ve got your back.

Don’t pay more than you need to – let us help you get the support you’re entitled to in 2025.

Do you think you are able to apply for council tax exemption?

visit gov.uk/apply-for-council-tax-discount.

In some cases, people are unaware they’ve been overpaying council tax for years due to not claiming the exemptions or reductions they’re entitled to. If you’re living with a disability or supporting someone who is, it’s worth reviewing your situation regularly. Councils do not automatically apply these discounts – you must take the initiative to claim.

Additionally, even if you’ve been paying council tax without realising you’re eligible for an exemption, you might be able to request a backdated refund. Councils can review your case and reimburse overpayments from previous years, provided you can supply the correct evidence.

This isn’t just about financial relief – it’s about fairness. You shouldn’t be penalised for circumstances beyond your control. The system is designed to support those most in need, and you deserve to benefit from that support. If you’re in doubt about how to start, simply apply for help and one of our friendly advisors will guide you through it.

2025/26 Council Tax Increase UK

Written by admin on April 2, 2025. Posted in News, Council Tax.

2025/26 Council Tax Increase UK

Council tax increase in England will rise once again

in the 2025/26 financial year, with average bills reaching record highs across nearly all authority types. The average Band D council tax set by local authorities in England is now £2,280, marking an increase of £109 or 5.0% from the previous year’s figure of £2,171. This includes all precepts, such as those for adult social care and local parish councils.

Key Headline Figures

– Average Band D Council Tax (England): £2,280

– Overall Council Tax Requirement: £44.1 billion

– Average Council Tax per Dwelling: £1,770

– Increase in Parish Precepts: 7.4%

– Adult Social Care Precept Contribution: £654 million, or £34 of the average Band D bill

Adult Social Care and Flexibility

Local authorities with adult social care responsibilities had the option to raise council tax increase by an additional 2%. Out of 153 such authorities, 147 utilised the full 2%, with the remaining six applying part of the allowance. This increase alone accounts for £34, or 1.5%, of the average Band D council tax bill.

Regional Variations

Area Type	Average Band D (2025/26)	Annual Increase
London	£1,982	4.7%
Metropolitan Areas	£2,289	5.6%
Unitary Authorities	£2,366	5.2%
Shire Areas	£2,344	4.8%

Referendum Principles and Council Decisions

Of the 384 authorities subject to referendum rules, 293 council tax increase by the maximum amount permitted, and 56 came close to that limit. Just eight councils either froze or reduced their council tax. No council exceeded its referendum threshold in 2025/26.

Breakdown by Authority Type

Class of Authority	2025/26 Average (£)	% Change
England Average	£2,280	5.0%
Inner London Boroughs	£1,192	4.8%
Outer London Boroughs	£1,688	5.1%
Metropolitan Districts	£1,936	5.4%
Shire Unitary Authorities	£1,984	5.2%
Shire Districts	£276	3.8%
Greater London Authority (GLA)	£490	4.0%
Combined Authorities	£86	16.6%
Police and Crime Commissioners	£282	5.2%
Fire and Rescue Authorities	£93	5.7%

Long-Term Council Tax Trends

Council tax has consistently risen over the past decade. In 2011/12, the average Band D bill was £1,439. By 2025/26, this has risen to £2,280—a 58% increase over 15 years. The sharpest rises have occurred since 2016/17, coinciding with the introduction of the adult social care precept.

Parish Precepts

In areas with parish or town councils, the average parish precept has council tax increase by £6.32 (7.4%) to £92.22 in 2025/26. There are 8,911 precepting parishes in England, collectively raising over £858 million this year.

Council Tax Per Dwelling

While the Band D figure is used as a standardised metric, the average council tax per dwelling for 2025/26 stands at £1,770. This figure reflects the broader spread of property bands (A to H), with the majority of homes falling into lower bands A to C. This measure is useful for understanding the average burden on individual households.

Special Considerations for 2025/26

– Second Homes Premium: From April 2025, councils can apply additional charges to second homes, increasing the tax base in some areas.

– No Major Local Government Reorganisation: Unlike previous years, 2025/26 has not seen structural changes affecting council boundaries or responsibilities.

– New Combined Authority Precepts: Some combined authorities, such as the East Midlands and North East, have begun levying precepts for the first time.

Local Financial Pressure is on

The 2025/26 council tax increase reflects the ongoing financial pressures on local authorities, particularly those providing adult social care. With more councils choosing to utilise the full extent of permitted council tax increase, residents across England can expect to pay more, regardless of where they live.

As costs rise year-on-year, the question of long-term sustainability and reform of council tax may become more pressing in future government discussions.

Government source: Link

Council Tax Arrears: Positive New Update April 2025

Written by admin on March 30, 2025. Posted in News.

Council Tax Arrears: New Updates April 2025

As of 1st April 2025, council tax bills have risen across nearly all local authorities in England and Wales, with most areas opting for the maximum increase of 4.99%—a move that comes during an already turbulent time for household finances. If you’re already facing council tax arrears, this could make things even tougher.

Local councils are feeling the financial strain themselves. Cuts to central government funding over the years have pushed many to rely more heavily on council tax to keep essential services running. The increases are being justified as necessary to maintain social care provision, policing, fire services and waste collection. But for many, these rising bills aren’t just unwelcome—they’re unmanageable.

The average band D household in England is now paying around £2,171 per year, according to figures cited by The Independent. In some London boroughs and northern cities, annual bills have tipped over £2,400. And it’s not just council tax—April also brings increases to broadband, mobile phone plans, water charges and car tax, further squeezing household budgets.

At the same time, enforcement action for unpaid council tax is ramping up. Bailiff visits are becoming more common, with many councils outsourcing collections to private enforcement agents. If you’ve fallen behind, even by just a couple of months, there’s a real risk your debt could be passed to bailiffs—resulting in additional fees and increased stress.

Now is the time to act. If you’re unsure whether your property is in the correct band, it’s worth checking your banding on gov.uk. Some households have found they’ve been overpaying for years due to incorrect classification. You should also be aware of whether any enforcement notices have been issued—many people don’t realise a liability order has been made against them until enforcement officers turn up at the door.

Falling into council tax arrears is not a sign of failure—it’s a common issue that affects thousands of people across the country. But ignoring it only allows the problem to grow. Councils have the power to take swift legal action, and they rarely hesitate once debts become overdue.

If you’re currently in arrears, or if you’re concerned you might fall behind, you can get tailored help now by completing our secure fact finder. It only takes a few minutes and could be the first step to resolving your situation. Our team works with individuals and households across England and Wales to reduce stress, stop enforcement action and find a manageable way forward.

Remember, council tax arrears won’t disappear on their own, but support is available. You don’t need to go through this alone.

For personalised advice and guidance, contact us today. One of our experienced advisors will be in touch to talk you through your options.

It’s also worth knowing that council tax debt doesn’t disappear with time. Councils can chase unpaid amounts for up to six years—and in some cases, even longer if court action has been taken. Unlike other household bills, council tax is a priority debt. That means falling behind can lead to more serious consequences than, say, missing a credit card payment. If enforcement action is already underway, time is crucial.

You may be entitled to exemptions or discounts you’re not even aware of. Single-person households, students, carers, and people on low incomes can often claim reductions. Yet many miss out simply because they haven’t applied. If your circumstances have changed recently, your bill might need adjusting. It only takes a few minutes to contact your council or seek advice.

We understand how overwhelming it can feel to deal with council tax arrears—especially when the cost of everything else keeps rising. Our team is here to help you take control of the situation and find a solution that works for your budget. Whether it’s setting up an affordable repayment plan or stopping enforcement action, reach out to us today. Getting advice early can make all the difference.

Council Tax Bailiffs

Written by admin on January 2, 2025. Posted in News.

Dealing with Council Tax Bailiffs in 2025

Facing issues with council tax bailiffs in 2025 can be daunting and stressful. Understanding the evolving landscape of council tax enforcement is crucial to protecting your rights and managing your obligations effectively. At Council Tax Advisors, we specialise in assisting individuals and families dealing with council tax bailiffs, ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need.

Key Issues with Council Tax Bailiffs in 2025

Advanced Digital Communication: The shift to digital platforms for communication with council tax bailiffs has streamlined processes but can also lead to missed notifications if not monitored regularly.
Revised Legislation: Recent legislative changes have introduced new protocols for bailiff conduct. It’s essential to stay informed about these updates to ensure your rights are upheld.
Remote Enforcement Techniques: Increased use of remote enforcement means bailiffs may handle more cases online, including virtual negotiations and digital documentation.
Data Privacy Concerns: With more interactions happening digitally, safeguarding your personal information has become a significant concern when dealing with council tax bailiffs.
Enhanced Protections for Vulnerable Individuals: New measures have been implemented to offer greater protection to vulnerable groups, such as those with disabilities or mental health challenges, ensuring fair treatment by bailiffs.
Transparent Fee Structures: There’s a heightened focus on transparency regarding fees and charges imposed by council tax bailiffs. However, disputes over allowable costs can still arise.

If you’re encountering any of these challenges with council tax bailiffs in 2025, our expert team at Council Tax Advisors is here to help. We provide comprehensive support, from understanding your legal rights to negotiating with bailiffs on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair treatment and manageable solutions.

Additionally, if you’re experiencing broader financial difficulties, Help with Debt offers valuable resources and support to assist you in overcoming debt-related issues.

Get the Assistance You Need Today

Don’t navigate council tax problems alone. Apply for assistance now or reach out to us directly at 0161 553 0650.

Bailiffs, what can they do?

Written by admin on April 5, 2024. Posted in Council Tax.

The Truth About What Bailiffs Can They Do!

If you’ve been visited by an bailiff enforcement agent, it can be a very stressful situation, both for you, and your family. An enforcement agent is someone who has been authorised by the Council to visit your property with the sole purpose of recovering unpaid debts, such as Council Tax arrears. It’s important to know your rights and what bailiffs legally can and can’t do. Firstly, remember that bailiffs are regulated on what they actually do and not what they say. This means that they can sometimes give you conflicting and misleading information.

In this guide, we’ll discuss what they can and can’t do.

Note: Bailiffs are now also referred to as Enforcement agents, they carry out the same duties.

Can bailiffs force entry into my property?

In most cases, bailiffs are not allowed to force entry into someone’s home. However, in some scenarios, they are allowed to use ‘reasonable force’. This only applies if they have been granted a court order, or if you have previously given them permission to enter your home upon visiting. They are not allowed to push past you or break your windows. If they only have a liability order, make sure you do not let them inside, as this will make matters worse. A liability order allows them to chase you for unpaid council tax debt.

If you’re received a bailiff letter or visit, call Council Tax Advisors today for FREE advice and mediation – we’re able to negotiate an affordable and sustainable repayment plan for you.

What if they keep adding on fees every they visit?

Enforcement agents are allowed to add fees, fortunately, these fees can only be applied once onto each account. This means that if you owe council tax arrears for just one year, you should only expect one set of fees to be applied. As an example, if you owe council tax arrears for a period of 4 separate years, you will likely receive fees for each individual year. Here’s a breakdown of the current fee structure:

Compliance Stage – Once your case is passed to the enforcement agent from the local authority, you will be charged £75
Enforcement Stage – If a bailiff visits your property, they can charge you £235 for this visit. There is also an additional 7.5% for debts that exceed £1,500.
Sale of Good Stage – If a bailiff removes items from your home or prepares them for sale, they will charge you £110, plus an additional 7.5% for debts that exceed £1,500.

Can enforcement agents take my car away?

If you’re in council tax debt, bailiffs do have the power to clamp and remove your vehicle if you own it i.e. it is not on any type of finance. The clamp will be removed and/or the vehicle returned, once you have repaid the outstanding debt. Some people mistakenly believe that if they park their car on their driveway, or at their neighbour’s address, this will prevent the car from being clamped, this is incorrect. We advise that if you do own a vehicle, that you park it as far away from the property as possible, within walking distance should be fine. Essentially you want to get the vehicle out of sight.

Remember, if a bailiff incorrectly clamps or removes someone else’s vehicle, who is not liable for council tax, you need to contact the council, and enforcement agency directly to make a complaint for unlawful action. If a vehicle has a log book loan attached to it, or it’s on hire purchase, no action can be taken as these are not fully owned by you.

Bailiffs have threatened me with locksmiths and removal trucks

As mentioned previously, if an enforcement agent only has a liability order and you have not let them inside your home previously, they can’t enter. Most cases don’t go beyond this stage, they can only enter your home with a locksmith if they have been granted a court order to do so. Generally speaking, it should only escalate to this stage for much larger debts. Unfortunately, even if you only owe £600 + fees, bailiffs will still say that they’re going to return with a locksmith and removal vans. They use this as an intimidation tactic to scare people so they find the money by any means necessary.

Sometimes bailiffs will give you misleading information, if you’re unsure about what to do and need help, speak to one of our specialist advisors. We’ve helped thousands of people resolve their council tax arrears and bailiff issues.

OK, but he said he’s coming with two removal trucks tomorrow

Don’t be alarmed. They’re trying to intimidate you. If you’ve been told by a bailiff that they will return with a removal van, just ignore them, the key thing to remember is, NEVER let an enforcement agent inside your property. If they want to park outside your home for 2 hours, let them sit there and continue with your day as you normally would.

Key Advice on Bailiffs, what can they do?

Always keep your doors and windows locked at all times
Do NOT let a bailiff / enforcement agent inside your property
If they do show up, do not engage with them, give us a call

Each individual case can differ, if you’re experiencing bailiff and enforcement issues, contact our expert advisors, we provide FREE advice and mediation services, we’re able to do the following:

Contact the local authority (council) and enforcement agent on your behalf
Get bailiff and enforcement action placed on hold for up to 28 days
Mediate and negotiate an affordable and sustainable repayment plan for you

Government help on your rights

Council Tax increase 2024, what to expect

Written by admin on April 5, 2024. Posted in News, Council Tax.

Council tax increase 2024, the typical annual council tax invoice is set to climb by £106 as local governments aim to safeguard essential services.

For a property in the median Band D, the charge will escalate by five per cent to £2,171. This follows the decision by all 153 upper-tier councils to implement the social care precept, either partially or in full, as revealed by data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Consequently the council tax increase 2024 and the total council funding requirement in England has surged to £41.2 billion, marking a £2.5 billion rise from the 2023/24 period. Furthermore, since the 2020/21 period, there has been a 20 per cent increase in average annual bills.

An interactive tool is available below to estimate the forthcoming council tax increment in your vicinity from 1 April 2024.

Simply enter your postcode into the tool to discover the specific charges applied by your local council for each tax band.

Council tax increase 2024

Understanding Your Council Tax Band and the council tax increase 2024
In England, residential properties are categorized into one of eight bands (A-H), based on their projected sale price in April 1991, which is when the current valuation system was established.

Scottish residences are similarly classified into eight bands, albeit with differing valuation ranges.

Wales has nine valuation bands (A-I), with the properties having been reassessed in 2003.

Your council tax band can be determined by visiting the relevant website or by examining your most recent tax bill.

Comparing Council Tax Bills
In London, the yearly average bill for a Band D home will reach £1,422, reflecting a five per cent rise from the previous year.

Metropolitan districts outside of London are set to witness an average annual hike of 5.4 per cent, resulting in £1,837, whereas bills in unitary counties without districts will increase by five per cent to £1,886.

In other county areas, the average bill will rise by five per cent to £1,643, with an additional £266 charged by districts within these regions.

Local councils have indicated facing tough decisions due to prolonged financial constraints, despite a recent £600 million increase in available funds.

From 2010 to 2015, yearly increases in council tax remained below one per cent, but this figure jumped to five per cent for the first time in the 2018/19 period.

Upper-tier councils are currently restricted from elevating council tax by more than 4.99 per cent, inclusive of the social care precept, without a local referendum’s consent.

The parish precepts for the 2024/25 period will amount to £783 million, a £75 million uptick from the 2023/24 period.

Government approval has been given to some financially strained councils to raise council tax beyond the 4.99 per cent limit.

The council tax system, integral to the funding of local services, is facing unprecedented pressures that mirror wider economic challenges. This year’s significant increases in council tax bills underscore the tightrope local authorities walk between generating essential revenue and maintaining affordability for residents. The application of the social care precept by all upper-tier councils is a testament to the growing demands on social services, especially in caring for the ageing population and supporting those with disabilities.

However, the rise in council tax is not without its critics. Many argue that it disproportionately impacts those in lower income brackets, exacerbating existing financial burdens. The reliance on property valuations from decades ago raises questions about the fairness and relevance of the current banding system, particularly in a rapidly changing housing market. The disparities between regions, as seen in the variance in tax increases, further highlight the uneven landscape of local government funding across the country.

In response to these challenges, there are calls for a comprehensive review of the council tax system to ensure it reflects modern property values and income levels more accurately. Such reforms could pave the way for a more equitable distribution of the tax burden, ensuring that local authorities can secure the funding they need while also protecting residents from undue financial stress. This complex balancing act is crucial for the sustainability of local services and the well-being of communities across the nation.

Apply for help

Check your council tax band

Earnings arrestment orders – what are they and how do I stop one?

Written by admin on May 31, 2018. Posted in Council Tax.

How to stop an Earnings Arrestment Order

Have you received a letter from a sheriff officer such as Scott and Co or Stirling Park about an earnings arrestment order (also know as a wage arrestment) for unpaid council tax? Are you unsure what to do next? This article will explain what an earnings arrestment order is, why you’ve got one, how to stop an earnings arrestment and where you can get help with it.

When do you get an earnings arrestment order?

An earnings arrestment order is one of the ways that a council can recover unpaid council tax. Before an earnings arrestment order can be put in place, the council must have followed a procedure that is set out in law.

The first time and second times you miss a monthly council tax payment, the council will send you a reminder letter. The letters give you seven days to pay the outstanding amount.

If you do not pay your first or second missed council tax payment within seven days of receiving the reminder letter or if you miss a third payment, you will receive a final notice. The final notice will state that you have 14 days to pay the entire amount that is outstanding for the rest of the year.

If you miss a council tax payment for any reason, you may find it helpful to seek independent debt advice. Independent debt advisors such as Council Tax Advisors can provide free and impartial advice about how to sort out the problem.

If you do not pay your council tax after receiving a final notice or do not get in touch with the council to try to arrange payment, the council can apply for a summary warrant from the Sheriff Court.

The summary warrant will be sent to you by a sheriff officer.

Sheriff officers are private companies who have been given the power by the Sheriff Court to enforce court orders such as summary warrants. Councils hire sheriff officers to enforce summary warrants for unpaid council tax on their behalf. Two of the biggest firms of sheriff officers in Scotland are Scott & Co and Stirling Park, but there are many others and they can even be individuals working for themselves.

The summary warrant sent to you by the sheriff officer will include details of the amount of council tax you owe, plus a 10% penalty. It will also have details of the sheriff officer you need to contact to arrange payment of the debt.

When you receive a summary warrant, you have 14 days to get in touch with the sheriff officer and start to put a repayment plan in place. If you would like help with this, contact Council Tax Advisors who can negotiate on your behalf free of charge.

If you do not come to a repayment arrangement with the sheriff officers, they can ask you for information such as the name and address of your employer, your National Insurance number, your bank account details or the name and address of anyone else who is liable to pay your council tax with you. You must provide the information they request within 14 days or you may be fined.

At this point, the council will go back to the Sheriff Court to obtain a charge for payment. This usually lasts for 14 days. If you have not made arrangements to repay your council tax before then, the sheriff officer has the power to take the money you owe using the information you have given them. There are several ways they can do this. They can freeze your bank accounts, take money from your bank accounts or remove belongings from your home and sell them. They can also put an earnings arrestment order in place.

What is an earnings arrestment order?

An earnings arrestment order is an instruction to your employer to deduct money from your pay packet. Your employer automatically deducts a set amount from your wages and sends it to the court. This amount will be deducted from each pay packet until the debt is repaid. The court will decide how much money will be deducted from your pay packet each time. The total amount that you owe will be the amount of council tax that is outstanding, plus administration fees for the sheriff and your employer and interest.

The amount that will be deducted from your wages each time is calculated using a set formula. It depends on how much money you earn, including commission, bonuses and statutory sick pay. It doesn’t take into account any other debts or outgoings you may have. You will always be left with at least 60% of your net income (your income after tax). If your earnings change, so will the deductions.

Earnings arrestment orders cannot be placed on some people. If you are self employed, receive unemployment benefit or are in the armed forces, you cannot have an earnings arrestment order.

Before an earnings arrestment order is valid, all the steps in the previous section of this article must have been carried out. You must also have received a Debt Advice and Information Package (DAIP). This gives advice on dealing with debt and the options open to you. If you do not receive a copy of the DAIP, the earnings arrestment order is not valid.

An earnings arrestment order can have very serious consequences. Some employment contracts may say that an earnings arrestment order is a disciplinary matter. This may mean you could lose your job.

How can you stop an earning arrestment order?

There are several ways you may be able to stop an earnings arrestment order being carried out.

You can ask your council to put a repayment plan in place. If they agree to this, you can apply to the Sheriff Court for a suspended attachment of earnings order. However, if you don’t keep up the repayments you have agreed with the council, it can apply for another earnings arrestment order.

You may be able to claim that having an earnings arrestment order could lead to disciplinary action from your employer meaning that you could lose your job. This would mean that the council would not get the money that is owed to them.

You could consider a Debt Arrangement Scheme, which is a debt payment programme managed by the Scottish Government. When you have a debt payment programme (DPP) in place, you commit to repaying your debt based on your disposable income (the money you have left after paying all your bills) each month. A DPP can last any reasonable length of time, depending on the amount you owe and how much you can pay. You apply for a debt payment programme through an independent money advisor and they negotiate with your creditors (the people you owe money to) on your behalf. When a DPP is in place, all interest, fees, penalties or other charges owed are frozen. Your creditors are also prevented from taking any further action against you.

If you have debts of at least £5,000, you could consider putting a Trust Deed in place. A Trust Deed transfers your rights regarding your assets to a registered trustee. The registered trustee negotiates the repayment process with your creditors on your behalf. Each month for an agreed period of time, you will pay a sum of money agreed between the registered trustee and your creditors (the people you owe money to). The registered trustee must be a registered insolvency practitioner.

Where can you get help about an earnings arrestment order?

If you have received an earnings arrestment order, the most important thing to do is get help. Organisations such as Council Tax Advisors, which is the UK’s leading Council Tax advice organisation, provide all the help and support you need. First and foremost, their help will mean you are no longer alone. They have all the information you need at their fingertips and can advise on all the options open to you. They can negotiate with the council and the sheriff officer on your behalf. They can help to put affordable repayment plans in place. They may even be able to have your earnings arrestment order removed. And, in the case of Council Tax Advisors, all their services are free of charge. So if you have got problem debt or are worried about an earnings arrestment order, get help today. Independent and free advice from Council Tax Advisors is only a phone call away.

Ultimate Guide To Stop Wage Arrestment in Scotland – Stop Action Today

Written by admin on May 31, 2018. Posted in Council Tax.

How to stop a Wage Arrestment for Council Tax

Are you struggling with council tax debt in Scotland?

Council tax debt can place severe strain on both you and your family. The payments can quickly pile up if unpaid and the tactics that can be used to recoup this debt can be particularly harsh.

One such tactic is known as wage arrestment.

Under this process the council can ask your employer to take regular deductions from your wages to repay the debt you owe.

If you are facing the prospect of wage arrestment, or are concerned about it being used to recover council tax debt, this article explains in clear terms exactly how it works and how it can be avoided.

If you would like to speak to a specialist adviser about wage arrestment you can call, or complete the form on this page, to access free, immediate professional advice.

The worst possible response to council tax debt is inaction

By speaking to our advisors you can avoid the increasingly drastic tactics that are used to recover this debt. You place yourself back in control.

There are no easy solutions to debt, but by taking positive steps you can avoid the most negative consequences.

If you need to understand just how wage arrestment is used, and what you can do if you are at risk of having it used against you, then read on to find out more.

If you are ready to take action and find a solution to your council tax debt in Scotland, then contact us today for advice and information. Call us or complete the form on this page.

What is wage arrestment?

Wage arrestment is increasingly being used to recover council tax debt in Scotland.

Under this tactic your employer is instructed to deduct money from your wages. Your employer must deduct an amount from your net earnings (that is your earnings after tax and national insurance) on each pay-day. This deduction must then be passed on to the council to pay off your council tax debt.

Although widely used for council tax debt wage arrestment can be used for other forms of debt as well.

Indeed it is part of a set of procedures that are collectively known as diligence against earnings.

Wage arrestment is used to collect a single debt
Current maintenance arrestment is used to enforce the payment of maintenance, such as that awarded by a court during a divorce settlement
A conjoined arrestment order is granted by the court to enforce payment of two or more of the same type of debts

The important point to note here is that a conjoined arrestment can be used for two or more wage arrestments that are in place at the same time but not for an earnings arrestment and current maintenance arrestment.

Need to speak to someone about wage arrestment? Our team of advisers are available to talk today. For a confidential, free consultation call us or complete the form on this page.

When can wage arrestment be used?

The usual process prior to a wage arrestment for council tax debt is as follows:

Reminder

The normal method for paying council tax is in 10 monthly instalments. If you miss a payment, the council should send you a reminder giving you seven days to pay the outstanding amount.

Final notice

If you fail to pay the missing instalment after a reminder, however, you will lose your right to pay by instalments. In this case you will receive a final notice giving you 14 days to pay the whole amount outstanding for the remainder of the financial year.
(It is still possible with some councils at this point to negotiate to pay in instalments if you contact them directly.)

Summary warrant

If this lump sum is not paid then the council can apply to the sheriff court for a summary warrant. This is a certificate from the sheriff court stating the amount of council tax you owe.

You do not have to be told that the council are applying for a summary warrant. Likewise you will not have the opportunity to negotiate with the court before one is granted. You will only know about it the summary warrant when you receive notification of it in the post.
The summary warrant is issued by the sheriff officers. It will state the amount due and who to contact to arrange to pay this. Your payments are no longer made to the council but to the sheriff officers. The amount due will have increased as there is an automatic penalty fine of 10% when a summary warrant is issued.

Arranging repayments

At this stage you can arrange to repay the money at a rate that is comfortable for you. If you decide to do so make sure you come to an arrangement that you will be able to stick to. It is better to pay a little regularly over a longer period of time than to try to stretch yourself and risk missing payments.

Charge for payment

If you do not come to a repayment arrangement the sheriff officers can ask you to provide any of the following information:

• The name and address of your employer
• Your national insurance number
• Your bank account details
• The name and address of anyone else who is liable to pay your council tax with you

There is an additional fine if you fail to provide this within 14 days.

In the meantime the council will obtain a charge for payment. You should get advice to check that these legal documents are correctly filled in because if your name or what you owe is incorrect the documents may not be valid.

Also, when this charge for payment is served on you it must be accompanied by a Debt Advice and Information Package explaining your rights and encouraging you to go for advice. If this is not done any attempt to arrest your wages is illegal.

You can check what the Debt Advice and Information Package should look like by downloading this PDF from here.

Once this charge for payment expires, usually after 14 days, sheriff officers have powers to get the money from you by:

• Arresting your earnings
• Freezing your bank accounts
• Taking money from your bank accounts
• Removing belongings from your home and selling them

It is not too late to act once a charge for payment has been issued. Before it expires you can still make arrangements to put in place a repayment plan. Doing this will prevent the actions listed above from being taken.
There are many stages where you can take control of your debt rather than having it managed for you. If you need to speak to a skilled adviser for a free consultation call us or complete the form on this page.

Who can receive a wage arrestment?

The fact is that most of us can receive a wage arrestment: in brief, anyone who is employed (apart from serving members of the armed forces) can have their wages arrested.

• You must be employed as opposed to self-employed (self-employed people cannot have their earnings arrested)
• You must not be on benefits (such as unemployment benefits)
• You must not be in the armed forces
• Your debt must be more than £50

How much of my wages can be taken?

There are strict rules about how much money can be taken from your wages, and also procedures in place to govern what happens if more than one creditor tries to arrest your wages.

The amount taken depends on how much you earn. Any payments for commission, bonuses or statutory sick pay will be considered as part of your wages.

You can get more advice about how much can be taken towards your debts by speaking to one of our specialist advisers.

Need to know just how much of your wages may be at risk? Speak to a adviser today: call us or complete the form on this page.

How will my employer react?

It’s unlikely that any employer is going to look favorably on what is an increased administrative burden. It is their legal duty to deduct whatever the courts insist from your wages. Your employer can also deduct a £1.00 administration fee every time the money is taken from your salary.

Wage arrestment can be uncomfortable for you at work but it is not likely to be more than that. However, you may, as a condition of your employment, have a clause in your contract that states that wages arrestment is a matter for which you should be disciplined. This is often the case in work in, for example, financial institutions.

In such circumstances you can apply to the court for a Suspended Attachment of Earnings Order. If you can supply compelling reasons why the wage arrestment should be suspended, you may be able to prevent it. One such reason may be dismissal or disciplinary proceedings at work.

If you need advice about any aspect of wage arrestment contact us now to speak to our team of advisers. Call us or complete the form on this page.

Who are ScotCall Debt Collection Agents and What Powers Do They Really Have?

Written by admin on December 1, 2016. Posted in Council Tax.

ScotCall, now known as Fidélité CM, is an award winning credit management business and debt collection agency. This company effectively utilises technology in order to create a network of agents, a customer portal and agent tracking. Fidélité take their responsibility as a debt collection agency seriously and are therefore associated with the highest regulatory standards. Conducting regular audits and continually challenging their work practices, you can rest assured that Fidélité operate within the industry guidelines and maintain all of the relevant codes of conduct. The agents at Fidélité are professionals and will utilise their technological solutions to provide their clients with fast and efficient collections.

Fidélité debt collection agents will be sent to your door on behalf of their clients to collect any outstanding arrears on primary or secondary debt streams. These agents have the ability to provide their financial and utility clients with an effective and bespoke locate and collect services. When Fidélité debt collection agents contact you, they will be looking to understand your current financial situation and provide you with accurate information on how to resolve your account. The debt collection agents have been trained to make collecting your outstanding debt a positive experiencing that will provide you with the information you need. However, it is important to know exactly what you rights are if a Fidélité debt collection agent does visit your home.

Falling behind on credit or utility repayments happens to thousands of UK residents every year. With the cost of living on the rise, it can be all too easy for debt to increase. If your outstanding has got out of hand and the situation is beginning to spiral out of control, you may be visited by a Fidélité debt collection agent to reclaim the debt. Despite popular belief, debt collection agents do not have unlimited power and ultimate authority. It is imperative to understand that a Fidélité debt collection agent has no right to enter your home without your permission. They must be invited in by you and you only. If you do allow the Fidélité collection agents to enter your home peacefully they have the right to begin claiming your possessions in order to repay your outstanding debts to their clients.

Once you have let the debt collection agents in one, they are entitled to re-enter your home whenever they choose to return again. This is exactly why letting in a Fidélité debt collection agent is not a decision that should be made under pressure. If you do not grant entry to the Fidélité agents on the first occasion, you will still be well within your rights to reject them again at t a later date. Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that debt collection agents are still able to take possessions from outside of your home, such as your car, if you have failed to come to a satisfactory repayment agreement.

It is common misconception that debt collection agents can force entry into your home whenever they want. On the other hand, it is crucial to bear in mind that if Fidélité or their client take your outstanding debt to the court, they will be given a court order that will allow them to enter your home using “reasonable force.” They will also be able to use reasonable force if you have already granted them peaceful entry once before. There are many rumours that are born out of fear of debt collection agencies regarding the collection process. If a Fidélité has to use to enter your home, they will not be able to use physical violence or be able to break windows.

The most effective way of dealing with Fidélité debt collection agents is to try and arrange a repayment plan with them directly, in a neutral environment. It is likely they will contact with you via phone or post before it gets to the stage of a home visit. This is the best time to deal with Fidélité debt collection agents openly and honestly. Regardless of your financial circumstances, the Fidélité agents want to work with you to find an appropriate outcome that suits you, their creditors and themselves. Dealing with Fidélité openly is the fastest way to deal with your outstanding debt. You can even pay your outstanding debt by utilising Fidélité’s online customer portal. However, if you and the debt collection agents cannot come to a realistic agreement regarding your repayments, or Fidélité reject your repayment suggestions, it may be time to seek advice from a highly qualified debt advisory service.

Council Tax Advisors CIC have an extensive experience dealing with Fidélité debt collection agents and have all the knowledge and advice you need to tackle you debt problems. We are a specialist debt advice Community Interest Company. CTACIC will be able to help you create a realistic repayment plan that works for you, your creditors and Fidélité debt collection agents. We can act as a buffer between you and the debt collection agents by providing you with continuous advice and support. If you are concerned about Fidélité debt collection agents visiting your door, contact CTACIC here today.

The rising tide of council tax bills – get help before the bailiff comes knocking

Written by admin on April 12, 2016. Posted in Council Tax.

For most people, debt isn’t something they planned. For most people, one minute they were managing to pay all their bills every month, even if sometimes it was a bit of a stretch. The next minute, they had to start making decisions about which bills they could afford to pay and which bills they couldn’t. They find themselves falling behind on gas or electricity bills or have stopped paying their council tax bills.

Does that sound like you? Have you had to start doing things like ignoring your council tax bills because you just can’t afford to pay them?

Unfortunately, there are serious consequences if you ignore your council tax bills – you could even end up with the bailiffs at the door. However, there are things you can do to get back control and avoid a visit from the bailiffs.

We’ll tell you more about what you can do if you cannot pay your council tax bill in this article. But if you’d like to speak to someone to get free advice and support about your situation now.

The serious consequences of ignoring your council tax bills

If you can’t pay your council tax, ignoring your council tax bills may seem like one way of dealing with the situation. But it is never a good idea because the bills will not go away.

You’ve probably heard that if you can’t pay your council tax, you can expect a visit from the bailiffs where they collect some of your possessions to sell to repay your debt. It’s certainly true that the thing that many people who can’t pay their council tax fear the most is a visit like this.

But did you know that bailiffs (or enforcement agents, which is their official name) have several other powers to try to collect the money from you apart from carrying out ‘exceptional attachment’ (the official term for them collecting your possessions to sell)?

For example, bailiffs can have an attachment of earnings order put in place. This means that money can be deducted directly from your pay packet until the debt has been repaid. If you are unemployed or receive benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Pension Credit or Universal Credit, bailiffs can arrange for money to be taken directly out of those.

All these things sound very scary – and they are. But it is important to know that calling in the bailiffs is the last resort for councils trying to collect unpaid council tax. In fact, bailiffs can only be appointed after your council has tried to collect the money from you in other ways. These ways are all laid out in law. So if you have been ignoring your council tax bills because you can’t afford to pay them, now is the time to take action before it gets to the point before the bailiffs can be called in.

Read on to find out what you can do.

What you can do about paying your council tax bills

If you are struggling to pay your council tax bills, the best thing you can do is contact your council to tell them. You can negotiate with them to put a repayment plan in place. It is important to make sure you can afford to keep up the payments you agree with them. If you won’t be able to afford the payments, you will find yourself falling behind again and having to deal with all the stress and worry that comes with it.

To make sure you can afford to make the payments you agree with your council, arm yourself with the information you need before you contact them. Do this by drawing up a budget and working out what you can afford to pay. If you would like help with this. We help hundreds of people a day so we’ve got the experience to help you draw up a budget and work out what payments you can afford. We can also negotiate with your council on your behalf so you don’t have to deal with this. All the help we offer is free of charge so you’ve got nothing to lose by calling us.

Other options for when a repayment plan isn’t an option

If you haven’t been paying your council tax bills because you are having to deal with lots of other debts, arranging a repayment plan with your local council may not be the solution you need. You might need to look at how you can get all your debts under control at once.

There are a few different ways to do this. There are Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), Debt Relief Orders (DROs) and there is bankruptcy. The one that is right for you will depend on your circumstances. We can help you decide which one you need.

When you take the first step towards getting control of your debts all at once, you will feel a huge weight lifting from you because you will be starting the process of stopping the stress of being in debt.

Get help to tackle your council tax bills

For most people, it was something unexpected that caused their circumstances to change and for them to have fallen into debt. It might have been an unexpected large bill. It might have been redundancy or a long term illness. Whatever it was, they find themselves going from someone who was in control of their finances to someone who wasn’t.

If that sounds like you, the chances are that you’re feeling lonely, scared and out of control. It’s time to start taking back control by contacting Council Tax Advisors. We will give you practical help and invaluable advice to help you get back on track. We don’t charge for any of our services, so take the first step today.