Council tax reband help needed!

eclectica83

We have lived in our house since 1999. Council tax has been in joint names with myself and partner, apart from 2 years solely in my name. It has always been payed by direct debit from my account.

a few weeks ago someone from moneysavingdirect.com  spoke to my partner at the door while I was out. When I returned I was told he has applied (and signed a form)for c tax reband, and although there would be no rebate there would be future savings.

We have just received a letter (from council)saying we are owed over £2000, as we are rebranded from c to b , but it seems my partner signed to give the entire rebate to moneysaving direct.

As pensioners we really could really use this (or even a bit) of this money. I don’t know if it is a scam, or we really have to give it all away! Help! 

Caz3121

not sure if 'scam' as such, there are plenty of companies about that charge a fee for doing something for you that you could do yourself - they don't offer a free service if successful so will expect to be paid for doing the work on your behalf.
The form that was signed should give the details of what their charges are
the terms on their website is as below - need to check what was signed.

1. Work and Services are provided on a NO WIN NO FEE basis.  If the Council Tax banding of the subject property is not reduced, Money Saving Direct (Property Valuation Services) Ltd will not seek any costs incurred.
2. NO INITIAL PAYMENT is made by you and Money Saving Direct (Property Valuation Services) Ltd cover all administration costs incurred upfront.
3. ALL MONIES owed to you by the council for over-payments of Council Tax will be PAID DIRECTLY TO INITIALLY and the fee that you owe Money Saving Direct (Property Valuation Services) Ltd, for their services in reducing the council tax band of your property, should be paid from these funds.
4. YOU WILL RECEIVE 100% OF ALL FUTURE SAVINGS as a result of a reduction in the Council Tax banding of the subject property.
5. If the Council Tax banding of the subject property is reduced , you (the customer) AGREE TO PAY Money Saving Direct (Property Valuation Services) Ltd fees of 50% OF ANY REFUND obtained relating to historic over-payments of Council Tax within 7 days of receipt of your refund from the council.  The charges are SUBJECT TO 20% VAT.  In some cases it may be appropriate to charge a fee equivalent to the full refunded amount, however in these circumstances this will be discussed and agreed by you (the customer) at the time of signing this agreement.

eclectica83

Thanks x what I was wondering is if it makes any difference as for 2/3 years council tax was in my name as a single person, or that it has always been paid by me. My partner signed the forms..not me! 

lincroft1710

eclectica83 said:

Thanks x what I was wondering is if it makes any difference as for 2/3 years council tax was in my name as a single person, or that it has always been paid by me. My partner signed the forms..not me! 

It will depend on what your partner actually agreed to, whether it was a percentage of the refund pertaining to their occupancy or a percentage of the refund during the occupancy of either party currently named on the CT account. Have the council issued a breakdown of the refund? If not it will be difficult to calculate how much of the refund would relate to your sole occupancy unless you have kept all your old CT bills.


If you can calculate your sole occupancy refund and it is unclear if your sole occupancy is included in the agreement, then just pay the percentage of the joint occupancy refund and let them prove they are entitled to it

JayKayPee

Can anyone confirm if the people who manage the claims for incorrect banding are working. I filled in the form in December 2020. Did receive a letter saying the form didn't have my name and address on so sent them a screen shot of part A & C clearly filled in. Tried a phone call and was advised they were not taking calls. Re sent email didn't get any response. What to do next been in the wrong band since 1991.

lincroft1710

JayKayPee said:

Can anyone confirm if the people who manage the claims for incorrect banding are working. I filled in the form in December 2020. Did receive a letter saying the form didn't have my name and address on so sent them a screen shot of part A & C clearly filled in. Tried a phone call and was advised they were not taking calls. Re sent email didn't get any response. What to do next been in the wrong band since 1991.

Are you referring to the VOA?