Council tax debt from 2011 advice needed

[soobee62]

Hello I posted some time ago regarding my local council having to cancel my court costs, and then as soon as my current council tax was paid, they found an outstanding debt from 2011. I never received any requested proof just a list of what was paid and amount outstanding. Anyway I am on a low income and offered to pay £5 per month on top of my current bill. They refused and said I have to pay £10 which I know is not possible as I am already juggling debts. Furthermore a loan which I took out is due to have the full amount paid come October, presently I am only paying the interest. I have asked several times for them to send me a financial form to fill they have refused to do this too. I would like to know if I have any rights regarding this. Thank you

[Kati]

Re: Council tax debt from 2011 advice needed

Are you paying the council or a bailiff??

Is there a LO against you for the debt??

Have you tried explaining to the council that you will fall into arrears with this years CT if they insist on you paying back the debt at a rate you cannot afford??

Have the council seen an income/expenditure form (as proof of what you can realistically afford)??

[Debt Camel]

Re: Council tax debt from 2011 advice needed

Hi soobee,

if you are on a low income and already juggling debts, which you expect to get worse next month, then it's probably a good idea to look at your whole debt situation as it doesn't sound as though the difference between £5 or £10 a month to these CT arrears will make all the difference.

Are you getting all the benefits you might be entitled to? Are you renting or buying? How much do you owe across all your debts?

[soobee62]

Re: Council tax debt from 2011 advice needed

Hello Kati At the moment I am not behind with my monthly payments, I have asked several times for a financial statement form but they have not agreed to send one. They are aware that it would be counterproductive to take me to court with the additonal of another fine. It really bothers me because I am not trying to get out of paying, but as we all know if I am 1p short in my account, the bank charges £25, the debt doesnt get paid so I still end up in court.

[soobee62]

Re: Council tax debt from 2011 advice needed

Hello Debt camel The bedroom tax is the one that really set me back, my rent is £200pw. I am living in a new build which may have to be demolished as it was built by cowboy builders, although we all have it bad, only the people on the lower ground floors take priority as they have mushrooms growing out of their walls and black mould. There is also a shortage of properties, so I have been waiting for two and half years. its not all gloom and doom though I have a lovely view ps i did get dhp payment but its doesnt cover it.