Crackdown on false benefit claims

Wirral Council is launching a new crackdown on false claims for Council Tax discounts.  Over 18s, living alone, are entitled to a 25% reduction in their Council Tax bills. 

Now, the Council is to check on whether people currently claiming the discount are entitled to it.  A new series of checks includes cross-referencing with the Electoral Register and closer working with Government agencies, such as the Department for Work and Pensions.  

Currently, there are 54,780 people claiming the discount.  Last year, after a massive exercise was undertaken, more than 1,900 single persons discounts were removed in Council Tax. In the last four months alone, 44 people have been prosecuted for benefit fraud and more are under investigation.

Cllr. Jeff Green, Leader of the Council, said: "Every Pound matters to this Administration.  Council Tax fraud is basically theft from the rest of the people in Wirral.  Fraud also takes cash from really important services, such as road safety, teaching or protecting the most vulnerable.  Wirral Council will always help those in genuine need but to those who are ripping us off, the days of something for nothing are over. 

"I have instructed our Revenues and Benefits Team to do everything possible, including checks against the Electoral Register, and closer links with the Department for Work and Pensions."

Anyone who has information relating to possible Council Tax or benefit fraud can call 0800 731 5783 in confidence or can text the Council on 07786 202 304 starting the message ‘fraud’.  Anyone who wants to check on their eligibility for Council Tax benefit or discounts can call (0151) 606 2002.