Manchester Council urging residents not to pay for ‘dodgy’ tax advice

Monday, 25 June 2018 07:00

Manchester City Council is warning people against a number of organisations offering a paid-for service to help people check whether they are entitled to discounts, exemptions or support with their Council Tax.

The council said that while the vast majority of residents will be paying the correct amount there is no need to pay to double check as the council provides this service for free.

Councillor Carl Ollerhead, Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for Finance, said: “A number of residents have recently reported being approached by commercial organisations offering - sometimes incorrect - fee paid advice purporting to reduce council tax payments. I'd like to remind residents that they are able to view and apply for discounts and exemptions online for free.

“We want our residents to be confident they are paying the correct amount of council tax without needlessly paying third parties for this advice. And it is hoped our Council Tax Support scheme will benefit as many people as possible so it's imperative our residents find out if they are entitled to this help. If you need help paying your Council Tax I’d urge you get online and check if you’re eligible for support.”

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