A new warning has been issued to Burnham-On-Sea residents this week over council tax scammers.
Sedgemoor District Council is warning residents to be aware of a scam in which residents are offered ‘deals’ to reduce monthly payments or reduce council tax banding.
“With council tax bills dropping onto doormats, a phone call that promises to lower your Council Tax banding for a fee of up £95 may sound like a great offer, but you can find out if your band can be lowered for free,” said council spokeswoman Claire Faun.
“Council Tax scammers are very prevalent at the moment due to bills recently being delivered to residents across the district.”
She added: “One current scam that has been bought to the district council’s attention is from a company claiming to be called ‘claimers’ who call on behalf of Sedgemoor District Council and ask for £95 to lower your Council Tax banding.”
“Please note this is not a phone call from Sedgemoor District Council, despite their phone number being very similar to that of SDC.”
“Council Tax bands are set by the Valuation Office Agency and can only be changed under certain conditions.”
Details can be found at www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals. You will not be charged for the service.
She added: “If you have given over personal details, we would advise you to call the Police straight away on 101 and report the matter as an identity theft scam. The Police will also direct you to the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040.”
Those struggling to pay Council Tax bills and needing help can talk with a member of Sedgemoor’s Council Tax Team. who will be able to offer help and advice on 0300 303 7801.
