Council Tax Scams UK — Fake Calls, Emails and Refund Texts

Council tax scams are becoming increasingly common in the UK. Criminals impersonate local councils to steal bank details, personal information and money from residents. This guide explains the most common council tax scams and exactly what your council will never ask you to do.

What Your Council Will NEVER Do

The Most Common Council Tax Scams

Fake Refund Calls and Texts

You receive a call or text claiming you are owed a council tax refund. The scammer asks for your bank details to process the refund. Your council will never contact you this way to process a refund — if you are genuinely owed a refund your council will write to you and any overpayment is usually credited to your account.

Threatening Enforcement Calls

A caller claims bailiffs are on their way to your property today unless you make an immediate payment. They pressure you to pay by bank transfer or gift card. Genuine council enforcement action always involves multiple written warnings and court orders — bailiffs do not arrive without warning.

Fake Council Tax Reduction Schemes

Companies charge fees to apply for council tax reductions on your behalf — services you could access for free through your council. Some are outright scams that take your money without applying at all.

Fake Council Websites

Fake websites that mimic official council websites charge fees for services that are free on the official website. Always access your council through gov.uk/find-local-council.

How to Verify a Council Tax Communication

If you receive a suspicious call or communication claiming to be from your council hang up and contact your council directly using the number from gov.uk/find-local-council — never the number given in the suspicious communication. Check your council tax account online through your council's official website.