Residents who wrongly claim up to 25% off their council tax bills have a two week amnesty to confess.

Councils across East Sussex are joining forces to review the number of residents who may wrongly claim a discount. Prior to the review starting next month of 83,000 East Sussex taxpayers, residents are being encouraged to come forward.

The partnership review will examine who is claiming the single person discount which saves a band D ratepayer £400 a year.

Reviews over the past three years have reduced the number of single person discounts by more than 7% leading to an extra £2.1 million in tax payments.

Councillor Peter Chowney, deputy leader of Hastings Borough Council, said: “This review is aimed at protecting the public purse by tackling payments that are vulnerable to fraudulent claims.

“These claims cost councils thousands of pounds a year and affects services.”

Residents can come forward without fear of penalty until September 12.