Stockport Council is warning people to be on their guard against a scam business targeting consumers in the area.
A resident has contacted the council saying they have been approached by a company offering to reduce their council tax in return for an up-front fee of £65.
The company claimed the resident had paid too much council tax – but they were not operating on the council’s behalf and the householder could have ended up losing money.
Councillor Martin Candler, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Supporting Places, said: “I would urge residents to be on their guard against these scams and give the scammers a wide berth if approached.”
The council’s Valuation Office determines tax banding and there is no charge for registering an appeal if residents believe their current band to be incorrect.
Full details on how to register an appeal can be found at www.stockport.gov.uk/counciltax.
Setting up a direct debit is the safest and most secure way of paying council tax, but people should ensure this is done via the council’s website www.stockport.gov.uk.
The council is advising residents to report scams to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506.
Image courtesy of Vincent Li, via Flickr, with thanks
