Council Tax discount fraud campaign launched

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Communities, Legal, Local Government

A campaign aimed at residents falsely claiming the single person discount for Council Tax has been launched by Southwark Council.

Up to 13,700 residents have been sent letters checking the status of their properties, and a series of posters warning of the consequences of committing the fraud have gone up across the borough.

A recent single person discount review by the council identified over 600 cases where the discount was subsequently removed and increased bills sent out.

Councillor Richard Livingstone, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, said: "Anyone who thinks they are getting away with falsely claiming the single person council tax discount for their household, should think again. Not only is this fraud in which case you 'll end up with a criminal record, you are also ensuring less funds are available to spend on community initiatives and local services for fellow residents.

"Any resident found making a false claim will be fully investigated and the necessary action will be taken. We fully intend to get back all monies that have been awarded under false pretences."