Lancaster households have been warned to watch out for scams linked to a new government energy payment scheme.
Eligible households in council tax bands A to D will receive £100 towards their energy costs, but Lancaster City Council has urged residents to be cautious of scammers.
Payments will begin in January 2027, and residents are advised not to share personal or bank details with anyone who contacts them unexpectedly about the scheme.
Those who pay council tax by direct debit do not need to take any action, as the council already holds the necessary bank details.
For residents who do not pay by direct debit, the council will provide information on how to apply once the process is confirmed.
Further guidance is expected as soon as it is received from the government.
A spokesperson for Lancaster City Council said: "Please be aware of scams linked to the new household energy payment.
"The Government has announced that eligible households in council tax bands A to D will receive £100 towards their energy costs.
"Payments will begin from January 2027 and you do not need to do anything at the moment.
"If you pay your council tax by direct debit, we already have the bank details needed to make the payment. We will not need to contact you to ask for them again.
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"If you don’t pay by direct debit, we will let you know how to apply once arrangements are in place to apply.
"Please do not give out your bank or personal details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly about this payment.
"We’ll provide more information as soon as we receive detailed guidance from the Government."
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