RESIDENTS in Dumfries and Galloway are being warned not to delay seeking help if they fall behind on their council tax payments, as local authorities across Scotland tighten their recovery policies.
The warning comes from Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the free and independent moneyadvice.scot service. The charity says the changes could hit vulnerable households hardest, especially as many are already dealing with rising living costs and energy bills.
Some households are now facing council tax debts of up to £15,000, with stricter enforcement action meaning people in arrears risk further financial penalties and court action.
Advice Direct Scotland warns other councils may follow suit, leaving many residents unaware of the serious consequences of inaction. Council tax arrears are classed as a priority debt, meaning they can lead to measures like wage or bank account arrestments, or even impact tenancy agreements.“The removal of final notices and the swift progression to summary warrants, including a 10 per cent penalty, could have serious implications for some…It is understandable that councils want to streamline the recovery process, but it is crucial that they also consider the potential consequences for individuals facing financial hardship,” said John Baird, head of debt services at Advice Direct Scotland.
The charity urges those to pay smaller amounts or seek immediate help if coming from a low-income background to prevent further complications. Residents can contact moneyadvice.scot for free expert support, including help negotiating payment plans and pausing enforcement.
