East Riding residents are being warned not to be taken in by people offering council tax rebates over the telephone, following recent complaints.
Trading Standards at East Riding of Yorkshire Council have had several reports of individuals claiming to be from the local authority, telling residents they are in the wrong council tax band and a substantial refund is promised.
The caller then asks for an upfront fee, typically between £87 to £175, which they say is to cover solicitors and legal fees, and they ask for the householder’s bank details in order to process the refund.
If residents rightly refuse to give their bank details over the telephone, the fraudsters have even offered to go round to the house to get them.
If a householder does genuinely believe they are in the wrong band, then all they have to do is contact the Valuation Office Agency and explain why they think it’s incorrect. The office will then complete a full assessment for which there is NO charge.
Anyone who requires further advice or wishes to report anything similar within the East Riding is urged to contact Citizens Advice consumer service on 08454040506.
To contact the Valuation Office Agency for the Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire area call 03000 503462 or e-mail ctnorth@voa.gsi.gov.uk or write to the Valuation Office Agency, King William House, Market Place, Hull HU1 1RT.