Council tax issue

[megandtess]

Hi Everyone
Some advice please.
I currently claim Job seekers allowance. At one point I was claiming ESA, but this changed when my appeal to continue claiming was turned down. During the transition period (4 months) of entering a new claim for JSA, I naturally incurred arrears for rent and council tax. In June of 2014, I made a repayment plan with council for both rent and council tax arrears, which the council agreed too. Since November 2014, I am also having deductions for council tax arrears taken from my JSA. I suppose my question is, can the council take what is in effect two amounts for the same debt? I have kept up with my repayments, although this does cause hardship, I'm surviving, just! If anyone can advise, I would be obliged. Thank you in advance.

[enaid]

Re: Council tax issue

I think you need to call the council and explain what is happening, I am sure you should only be paying one and do you have it in writing about the agreed repayment plan?
The council must have instructed DWP to deduct the amount from your JSA and it look like they have missed you are already in a payment plan.
Only my opinion though.
Enaid x

[nemesis45]

Re: Council tax issue

It's certainly wrong if you are already paying the council from your benefits a case of one hand not knowing what the other is doing, usually known as incompetence!

nem

[megandtess]

Re: Council tax issue

Hello,
Many thanks for your reply. I have written and spoken to the council and visited the local office. Still no joy. Unfortunately, with my medical condition, this is just adding to the stress. I will endeavor to write again and see if I can at least get a response and perhaps someone who actually knows what they are talking about. Again thank you for your help.

[bizzybob]

Re: Council tax issue

Contact your local councillor, explain what is going on, and they should help you sort it, especially as they can inquire into what the revenue office are up to. Maybe this is a Capita infested council.