New autumn campaign has clear zero tolerance message
Council Tax and benefit cheats are costing the nation millions each year.
That’s why in Edinburgh we’re determined to track down and prosecute anyone who is committing fraud and recover any money that’s owed.
A hard hitting campaign begins this autumn, highlighting the ways in which you can help us track down the benefit cheats.
The message is clear – benefit cheats will not be tolerated and prosecuted.
The Council has a responsibility to ensure that only people who are entitled to benefits receive them.
Ultimately, anyone who cheats the system is robbing from all of us, which of course means less money to provide you with essential services.
If you suspect anyone of committing benefit fraud, call the National Benefit Fraud hotline number on 0800 854 440 – all calls will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Benefits online
Find out more about the benefits you’re entitled to by checking out our website. Using our benefits online service you can quickly check to see if you qualify for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.
You can start, continue or check the status of a claim for Housing or Council Tax Benefit, as well as letting us know about any change in your circumstances.
Direct Debit
Paying your Council Tax or Non-Domestic Rates has never been so easy.
Using direct debit is really straightforward and gives you the reassurance that you’ll never miss a payment. You don’t need to worry about writing a cheque each month, or going to a Post Office or Council Office to pay. You don’t even have to tell your bank or building society when a payment changes – we take care of that for you.
With direct debit you can choose which one of four dates in the month you’d like the payment to be taken from your account.
And it’s safe, offering a money back guarantee in the unlikely event that either the wrong amount is collected or an amount is collected before the agreed date.
All you need is a bank or building society account. You can either complete the direct debit over the phone by calling 0131 469 5000 or download an application form online.