Council tax problem, bailffs now involved

ajarnold

RAS wrote: »

Which bailiffs?

You are aware that Equita are owned by the same people as Capita and capita run a lot of Council Tax back Offices?

General rule is that if CT Office is Capita and Equita are involved, you need to speak to the councillors not the COUNCIL.

It's Rossendales who are involved

DS4215

ajarnold wrote: »

Yes, but the tenancy is in my partners name only. She also has rent arrears which need to be cleared before my name can be added. All under control, just need a bit more time. Her stupid X got her in such a financial mess, cards, council tax, etc.

I don't think it matters whose name is on the tenancy agreement. As an adult you should be paying council tax for where *you* are living. If she is claiming single person benefit (as if you are not living there) then she is breaking the law. If she is not then it is a joint bill and your cars can be levied on.

Red_dog_Sam

OK. They will've been reluctant to help because the council will have to pay the bailiff fees if they are in error. The recovery manager will have the authority to cancel bailiff action and fees. If you can, send copies of payment receipts that show enough was paid to pay up the current year along with your letter. Make sure you point out that an arrangement had been agreed. That payments were made. That they incorrectly allocated the funds (this is the bit that makes it the council's mistake). That you have now paid in full. That your partner is vulnerable and that the handling of the matter has caused her undue stress during her pregnancy and so bailiff action was inappropriate. If the bailiff fees exceed £42.50 they will be charging more than they are allowed to based on their involvement so far - so if that is the case make sure you also question the legality of the fees. That you want bailiff fees and summons costs cancelled. Cosider copying in the local councillor to add more pressure.