Is bank arrestment possible in England?

Hi people, and thanks for reading.

I used to live in Scotland, during which time I accrued a debt of £1200.03 for council tax. Apparently the 3p IS significant.

Its been about 3 and a half years since we moved back down south, and so far they haven't chased me for the money. However, today I have had a letter saying they are going to arrest my bank account to recover it. :(

Does anyone know if they are allowed to do this as I am now an English person living in England with an English bank account?

If they are able to do this, does anyone know how quickly they manage to put the stop on the account? I may be able to raise the money, but not very quickly, and can't risk having my account frozen for any length of time.

Thanks in advance.
Stuck in a hole :(:(:( Just a step from getting out

Comments

  • happy_bunny_2
    happy_bunny_2 Posts: 4,488 Forumite
    Not a clue.

    National debtline will so best give them a call.
    :beer:
  • CIS
    CIS Posts: 12,260 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    The council can apply to have the enforcement applied by a English Court, the general process is given here - http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/taking-action/frequently-asked-questions/general-faqs/serving-or-enforcing-a-court-order
    I no longer work in Council Tax Recovery but instead work as a specialist Council Tax paralegal assisting landlords and Council Tax payers with council tax disputes and valuation tribunals. My views are my own reading of the law and you should always check with the local authority in question.
  • National_Debtline
    National_Debtline Posts: 7,998 Organisation Representative
    Tenth Anniversary 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    Hello there,

    It is possible for Scottish council tax debt to be enforced in England, and we occasionally come across this happening. Although there isn't a direct equivalent, the nearest enforcement measure would be a 'third-party debt order'. In seven years of working here I've only ever come across someone using one of these once.

    I would imagine the enforcement measure of choice would be bailiffs (Enforcement Agents) - although this is speculation on my part.

    Very best wishes,

    David @natdebtline
    We work as money advisers for National Debtline and have specific permission from MSE to post to try to help those in debt. Read more information on National Debtline in MSE's Debt Problems: What to do and where to get help guide. If you find you're struggling with debt and need further help try our online advice tool My Money Steps
  • why not just get a new bank account ?
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