Council Tax Rebates - Scotland

mcbagpipe_2

Hi, I'm looking for any experiences or successes in getting rebates in Scotland. I've greatly enjoyed hearing about quick successful rebates in England being accompanied by cheques for 10-15 years worth of over payments.

I am in one half of a semi and in Band E, and have been since 1992. The other half is in Band D, and has been since 1991. I put in a submission for rebanding and just got a response which is very strong on the legalese ....

COUNCIL TAX - INVALID PROPOSAL - OUT OF TIME
Quote - "I regret, however, that I am unable to accept your proposal as valid because it was not made within the period laid down by statute (... leagla bumpf says it is 6 months from the first demand notice. If you disagree with my opinion you may appeal to me in writing within 4 weeks of the date of this notice and you should include reasons in support of your appeal. Notwithstanding the above it is my policy to investigate all such banding enquiries and I shall do so and respond to you formally with the outcome of this investigation."

So, it would seem that no-one in Scotland can get anything claimed and backdated if that 6 month period has passed? Anyone been able to get a positive response?

It would also appear therefore that any appeal that I put in is not based on the rights or wrongs of my banding, but on the legal status of 'when' I applied.

I foresee two possible outcomes of any investigation

1- I am rebanded. Surely I have a case for reclaiming what are incorrect overpayments since 1992 ?

2- My neighbours are rebanded - Will they be told why they are being rebanded ? Will they be backdated the charge ?

Any success stories out there that might give me something to go on .. ?

jennifernil

DD got her flat in Glasgow moved down a band in 2004, but she was within the 6 months of purchase, and it is a fairly new flat. Previous owners got back the difference for the other 3 years, without lifting a finger, or saying thanks.

Not much help to you though, sorry!