Scared

[pinkp]

Hi all

I set up a payment plan with Brum council for my council tax earlier this year. I was in arrears of about 1k from last year's bill and this year's bill. They divided the amount over 12 months and I currently pay £108 per month.

I have a liability order for it but was told to ignore it as I had already set up the plan. I did not have to go to court. The order is in my name and husband's.

This month I cancelled the direct debit by accident and called them up as it is due in a few days. She told me that they call for the payment 7 days in advance, so I cannot set up a new direct debit until it has bounced. She told me to pay the amount via card approx 4 days after the direct debit bounces, and then give them a call to set up a new direct debit.

I have just checked the bank and I cannot afford to pay it at all this month.

I can afford to pay it, along with the next payment, on 29 December.

Will they accept this? Or will they just send bailiffs / committal summons?

Will I go to prison?

Will I get any notice before anything happens?

[Kati]

Re: Scared

Hi Pinkp, welcome to LB!

First things first ... you will not be sent to prison for not being able to pay (that is for those who won't pay not can't!)

I think the best thing you can do (right now) is to contact the council in writing explaining that you cannot afford to pay until the end of next month. Ask if they can defer the payment until then (citing your reasons for the request). I have found that most councils will be reasonable so long as you keep them informed at all times - especially if you copy your local MP in on the letter too

K xx

[stevemLS]

Re: Scared

That is absolutely sound advice from Kati - you are far away from being comitted to prison although your position is not ideal.

Not sure how you accidently cancel a direct debit. But do as Kati suggests and do it now.