Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert has issued a warning to households over a £150 Council Tax rebate being offered to households amid an escalating inflation crisis.
Homeowners and the vast majority of tenants in band A to D properties will receive a £150 refund on their annual property tax this month under a pledge to ease the cost of living crisis.
The money should hit bank accounts by April 30 to help families cover the rising cost of living.
But households are being warned over scammers who are exploiting those awaiting their £150 grant.
MoneySavingExpert has warned that fraudsters are using the government scheme as an opportunity to target vulnerable people.
A number of councils including Durham and Southwark have told residents to be wary of scam phone calls.
"Please don’t give your bank details to anyone who calls you about the national council tax rebate scheme," Durham Council said on Twitter.
"We’re aware of a scam but we will not ask for your details as part of this process."
Around 80% of UK households are eligible for the council tax refund, which is being given out to people living in homes registered as bands A to D.
The vast majority of those who qualify will get their payments this week, although non-direct debit payees could receive their payments slight later.
If you pay by direct debit, it will be paid automatically into your bank account.
But be wary of scammers posing as local authorities and cold calling households.
Your council will never ask for your bank details over the phone.
If you're a direct debit customer, your local council will already have your bank details.
If you do not pay by direct debit, contact them directly to set up a payment.
In any case, avoid sharing personal details with anyone who has called you out of the blue.
If you think you've been scammed, contact your bank directly as soon as possible using the number on the back of your bank card. Notify your council too.
Most banks including Halifax, Natwest and Lloyds can be reached using the new 159 scam line.
Find out when your council tax rebate will arrive, here.
