Summons for Non-Payment of Council Tax.I let things slide due to a recent bereavement

Chineapple_Punk

Hi guys, I’ve found myself in a bit of a situation here.

I’ve neglected the finances of my new rented accommodation over the last few months due to the fact that I’ve been away from the premises looking after my sick Father. He recently passed away.

I return to find a summons for non payment plus additional costs of £103

I have the money, I can pay the full amount right now, I've just not had the time or mental capacity to sort this stuff out recently. It’s been a very stressful few months & finances have been the very last thing on my mind.

It’s the first time I’ve had to pay council tax as I’ve previously lived in inclusive shared accommodation, It would normally be the sort of thing I would discuss with my Dad & I know I’m now having to adjust to doing this stuff without him.

I’m just wondering how to proceed, can I tell them about these mitigating circumstances to get these extra costs reduced?
Should I pay the original amount before contacting them?
Should I just pay the full amount & move on & put the issue to rest?

I know It’s my fault, I know I screwed up here, but I’d really appreciate some advice.

Thanks.

masha

Give them a call tomorrow and explain the situation. It is likely that they will waive the summons costs, so you will only pay the tax.

If you don’t get anywhere, politely ask to speak to a supervisor/manager.

All Councils are different, but when I was in a similar situation, the summons costs were waived.

Chineapple_Punk

Thanks for the advice I just lost track of things over the last few months. Hopefully they can waive the summons costs if I offer to pay the full tax amount immediately.

agrinnall

Hopefully the council will take your circumstances into account and just let you pay the outstanding amount. I would always suggest that if you know you'll have the money available every month then Council Tax is one bill that is definitely worth paying by Direct Debit because of the draconian outcomes of failure to pay.

lincroft1710

Councils are told all sorts of stories as to why CT hasn't been paid, some of which are clearly untrue, so they may or may not be sympathetic. If they do waive the charges, you are dealing with a very understanding council.

Chineapple_Punk

After navigating an automated labyrinth for 1/2 an hour, finally got to speak to a human being. No budging on this one at all so I paid in full.

I'll just put it down to experience. Thanks for your advice though guys.