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Anyone know if this number is genuine? - Tax Credits
AsknAnswer2
Posts: 753 Forumite
Got a letter from tax credit compliance here. I've had them before and nothing to worry about, just a claims check but this one I'm suspicious about. The last few times they have written on headed paper and asked me to send info. On this occasion they have asked me to phone them to discuss matters. Now I won't be discussing anything on a number that I don't know to be a valid TC number - could be anyone. I can't understand why, for such a serious matter they would want to discuss it over the phone. Previously they have written and I'm happy to attend a taped interview if need be as I've nothing to hide. Not so happy to do it over the phone when I'm suspicious about the validity of the letter.
The paper quality is poor, and the print isn't the usual green headed but dull grey - almost like a very poor photocopy. But I know some govt offices are reverting to recycled paper so this doesn't really tell me anything other than TC's are following the same. The letter does not contain a name (previous ones have had a name at the end - this just has a team). The letter is also from an address that I have never used to deal with tax credit before. Lastly, the tone of the letter is very strong indeed compared to previous compliance letters, I am questioning whether it is genuine or someone on a phishing expidition.
I've tried ringing TC's on the known number 0845 900 3900 to check if the phone number given on the letter is genuine or not, but no surprises they are busy as always.
Can anyone tell me if 01634 821781 is a genuine TC number, or otherwise have an idea how I could check the validity of it before I phone?
Failing that I'll ring it tomorrow and tell them I'm not discussing anything until I can verify the number they've given is genuine - they can arrange a meeting at the local inland revenue.
The paper quality is poor, and the print isn't the usual green headed but dull grey - almost like a very poor photocopy. But I know some govt offices are reverting to recycled paper so this doesn't really tell me anything other than TC's are following the same. The letter does not contain a name (previous ones have had a name at the end - this just has a team). The letter is also from an address that I have never used to deal with tax credit before. Lastly, the tone of the letter is very strong indeed compared to previous compliance letters, I am questioning whether it is genuine or someone on a phishing expidition.
I've tried ringing TC's on the known number 0845 900 3900 to check if the phone number given on the letter is genuine or not, but no surprises they are busy as always.
Can anyone tell me if 01634 821781 is a genuine TC number, or otherwise have an idea how I could check the validity of it before I phone?
Failing that I'll ring it tomorrow and tell them I'm not discussing anything until I can verify the number they've given is genuine - they can arrange a meeting at the local inland revenue.
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Comments
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If you check the area code it is in Medway. As far as I know there are no TC offices in this area. So be wary of giving information about yourself over the phone.0
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i had a letter like this at renewal time and it was genuine0
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I've sent it to HMRC phishing team and asked them to respond.0
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