A RESIDENT from Alvechurch said the £150 tax rebate is a “shambles” and feels non-direct debit customers are being “kept in the dark”.

Bromsgrove District Council said they have paid out money to 21,000 households out of a potential eligible pool of 27,000 before the government deadline of the end of September.

A man from Alvechurch, who wished to remain anonymous, said he is still waiting for his £150 energy tax rebate from the council.

He said: “I can’t get through to anyone at the council – it’s hard to get our money back.

“I don’t pay my council tax by direct debit, and I feel punished for that.

“The way non-direct debit customers are being treated to compared direct debit customers is disgraceful.

“The majority of non-direct debit customers will need the cash more as in most cases finances are not so secure.

“The money can help with fuel costs and everyday costs.

“If we owed the council money, they would not be happy with how long it’s taking.”

According to the Bromsgrove District Council website, non-direct debit customers will receive a personal invitation when their rebate is available to claim.

The website urges people to not apply until a personal invitation has been received.

A council spokesperson said on June 15: “We have paid 21,000 households from a potential eligible pool of 27,000 and are writing to customers that pay by means other than direct debit to let them know how to claim. 

“In the meantime, the application form is live on Bromsgrove.gov.uk by searching Council Tax Rebate and can be completed at any time.”

The rebate is designed to help people deal with rising energy prices and is a one-off £150 non-repayable rebate for households in England residing in properties council tax bands A- D.

Are you still waiting for your tax rebate? How is this affecting you? Get in touch with us by emailing Lucy-Ann.Jones@newsquest.co.uk.