10 September 2007, 07/299
Council tax - pay up or pay the price
West Lancashire District Council will leave no stone unturned
when it comes to collecting outstanding council tax.
Just last month Ormskirk Magistrates found a resident guilty of
neglecting to pay their council tax and issued a suspended sentence
on terms of payment. Meaning that, if they fail to make the
payments ordered by the court, they will be committed to
prison.
The Council also now has new powers to issue Statutory Demands for
bankruptcy. This means that council tax payers who owe money to the
Council will be given 14 days to either settle the debt or make
suitable payment arrangements.
Failure to do this will result in a County Court appearance, which
will not only affect people's credit rating, but could also result
in their property being sold to cover the outstanding debt.
Cllr Adrian Owens, Portfolio Holder for Finance, said: "Non-payment
of council tax is a serious offence. The Council is committed to
collecting all outstanding debt to protect the majority of people
who do meet their statutory obligations by paying their council tax
bills.
"However we're very aware that council tax is a major household
bill. That's why we've kept our tax increase to inflation or less
for the last 4 years and we've also increased the funding of debt
advice in the district for those in financial difficulties.
"The District Council collects tax on behalf of Lancashire County
Council and the Police and Fire authority. Only 12% of your council
tax is the District Council's share, although the district has to
pay the other authorities whether or not the tax has been
collected. This is why it is vital that we make every effort to
collect what is due."
Council tax payers who are experiencing financial difficulties, are
encouraged to contact the Council Tax team 01695 585090 to discuss
a suitable payment arrangement.
Council tax benefits are available to those on low income. For
information regarding council tax benefits ring 01695 585080 or
visit the Council
Tax section.
Related information
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