Serial council tax dodgers in Ipswich now face financial ruin and the loss of their homes and savings. As part of an on-going commitment to recovering outstanding council tax and business rate debts, Ipswich Borough Council is increasingly using bankruptcy as a means to recover money from the most hardened non-payers.
The threat of bankruptcy is usually sufficient to prompt a response from people who have a long history of debt avoidance. When a bankruptcy order is made, home-owners are at risk of losing the roof over their head, as the Official Receiver has the power to order a property to be sold with the proceeds being used to clear creditor's claims. Those being targeted are not getting housing or council tax benefit and are therefore regarded as having the means to pay.
Recent orders have been made against four Ipswich residents owing in excess of £21,000 in unpaid council tax and business rates.
Anyone having trouble paying their council tax or business rates is advised to contact the Council's Local Tax department on 01473 433911 at the earliest opportunity.