FIFE COUNCIL will not take recovery action against anyone who cannot pay their council tax for April.

The authority has announced that no reminder letters will be issued to those suffering financial hardship as a result of the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Anyone unable to meet the payments should claim for a council tax reduction via Fife Council's website.

The local authority did, however, stress that those in a position to pay should continue to do so in order for key services to be provided.

A spokesperson said: "With immediate effect, we will not be taking any recovery action against households who fail to pay their council tax because of sudden financial hardship in relation to the current Covid-19 crisis.

"No reminder letters will be issued if you’re unable to pay your bill next month (April) and all recovery methods will remain suspended meantime.

"It’s important however, for those who do find themselves in a position to pay their council tax, to keep doing so.

"We need this money to provide vital frontline services – all normal methods of payment will stay in place at present and direct debits will be taken as normal.

"If you’re unable to meet the payments due to a drop in your income, please claim for a council tax reduction.

"We've also instructed our debt collection partners to suspend all new recovery action against households with existing council tax arrears.

"We’ll be reviewing the situation regularly."

For more help with benefits and money advice, visit: www.fife.gov.uk/coronavirus-moneyadvice

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