June 18, 2013 12.57 pm This story is over 128 months old

Lincoln residents warned over Council Tax scam

Tax scam: Lincolnshire trading Standards is warning people not to fall prey to a scam that offers a reduction in Council Tax.

Lincolnshire Trading Standards is alerting Lincoln residents to a letter scam informing them they are entitled to a Council Tax refund.

The letter, sent by a company not affiliated with local councils, states that the occupier will be able to get a refund because the property has been rebanded.

The company then offers to help them apply for the reduction in their tax bill and the refund for free.

The warning comes after a large number of residents in the city and local areas have received these letters and complained to Trading Standards.

Angela Kane, senior trading standards officer at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Worryingly, these scammers are using the promise of reduced council tax as a means of gathering personal details and conning people out of money. We would advise residents not to get involved with these companies.

“Scams like this are crimes, so it is vital that people report them, and we would encourage anyone who thinks they may have fallen victim to a scam and lost money or those who have received what they suspect is a scam, to come forward by calling us on 01522 782341 or at [email protected].

“If you want to check your Council Tax banding, this can be done for free by the Valuation Office Agency. Simply visit www.voa.org.uk or call 03000 501501.

“If you feel that the band on your home is wrong, then all you have to do is contact your local council office and explain why you think it is incorrect.

“They will also ask you to confirm that the details they hold about your home are correct. They will listen to your views and if they agree that the band is wrong, they will change it. Bands can occasionally go up as well as down.”