Single person discount review
We are carrying out a review of all households that are in receipt of a single-person discount on their council tax bill. Over 50,000 customers currently receive a 25% single person discount.
The review is being managed by Civica on behalf of the council.
Our aim is to provide residents with the best possible service during the review by offering clear instructions for completing the forms that should be returned. However, sometimes, circumstances may not be so easy to explain. To help in these situations, we have included below, the most frequently asked questions that can arise throughout the period of the review.
Why have I been sent this letter?
Each year we receive lots of applications for single-person discount, we have a duty to ensure where a discount is awarded there is a genuine entitlement to that discount. We are simply verifying that you are still entitled to the discount.
How do I complete the form?
Please fill out and return the form using the envelope provided.
If you are the only adult over 18 occupying your property, simply tick the relevant box, sign and date the form at the bottom and return to the address at the bottom of the letter.
If there is more than one adult living at the property, please provide their name, date of birth, the date on which they moved in and their previous address. If you think they should be disregarded for council tax purposes, for example if they are a full time student, they have recently left school or they are an apprentice you should include them on the form and tell us why. Please include details of their date of birth, the name of the school, college or University they attend and if their term time address is away from home, their address whilst they are studying. Evidence may be required such as a bank statement to show that you are getting child benefit for the person over 18.
We may need to contact you again for more information, so it is helpful if you provide us with an email address or telephone number. Or, if you need assistance with what evidence you may need to provide, phone 0300 373 5446.
What happens if I don't complete and return the form?
We will assume that your circumstances have changed and you are no longer entitled to the discount. Your single person discount will be removed and a revised bill will be sent to you.
What happens if I return the form after the 14 day deadline given?
As long as the form is returned within a reasonable amount of time, you will not be penalised. If the form is very late, you may end up receiving a reminder letter. If you do receive a reminder letter, you should complete the form as previously requested.
What should I do if someone is using my address for correspondence only?
Please provide their name and the address where they actually live so that it can be verified. You can supply more information if you think it relevant to assist your claim.
I have already informed the council of a change in circumstances. Do I need to complete and return the form?
Yes, please include all the details of your current situation.
I receive mail for the previous occupiers, what should I do about this?
You need to write on the envelope that the person no longer lives at the address and return it to the sender.
A friend stays with me three or four nights a week, does this mean I am no longer entitled to the discount?
If your friend keeps their belongings at your house, it will be classed as their main residence and you will no longer be eligible for the discount. Some of the questions we may ask are:
- Where does your friend stay for the other nights? If they stay at various addresses but keep their belongings at your property, their main residence would be your address.
- What address do their doctor / dentist hold for them? If it your address, it is their main residence.
- Does your friend work away and stay at your address on their days off? Your address would be their main residence
You should provide as much information as possible - if necessary, you can use a separate sheet. If you are unsure please email spdreview@coventry.gov.uk [mailto:spdreview@coventry.gov.uk] or phone 0300 373 5446.
Who are Civica?
Civica provides services in revenues and benefits processing work for many local authorities throughout the country. Civica has a dedicated and specialist team if experienced council tax officers to carry out discount reviews. The law allows for the contracting out of council tax functions.
Why am I being asked to return my information to a Pershore address?
All returned forms are being handled by Civica at their specialist mailing centre at Pershore. The information you provide will be electronically scanned on to your council tax account.
What is data matching?
Civica matches the council tax database with third party sources and specialist validation services. Addresses of those in receipt of a single person discount are passed to Experian who run a search to match other data sources such as the electoral register or credit agreements. Experian then provides Civica with a list of possible adults at the property.
Does it breach data protection legislation?
No. Civica holds the data for the correct purposes i.e the levying and collection of a tax. The data is held for as long as required then destroyed. No database is compiled that could be shared with or accessed by other bodies or sources. View Experian's privacy notice. [https://www.experian.co.uk/consumer/privacy.html]
What credit information do you hold on me?
We do not hold any credit information. If you want to see your credit file, you should contact any of the major credit referencing agencies:
- Experian
- Equifax
- TransUnion