PART 1Procedure for an application for a reduction under this scheme
Procedure by which a person may apply for a reduction under this scheme
1. Paragraphs 2 to 7 of this Schedule apply to an application for a reduction under this scheme.
2. An application may be made—
(a)in writing;
(b)by means of an electronic communication in accordance with Part 4 of this Schedule; or
(c)where the authority has published a telephone number for the purpose of receiving such applications, by telephone.
3.—(1) An application which is made in writing must be made to the designated office on a properly completed form.
(2) The form must be provided free of charge by the authority for the purpose.
4. Where an application made in writing is defective because—
(a)it was made on the form supplied for the purpose but that form is not accepted by the authority as being properly completed; or
(b)it was made in writing but not on the form supplied for the purpose and the authority does not accept the application as being in a written form which is sufficient in the circumstances of the case having regard to the sufficiency of the written information and evidence,
the authority may, in a case to which sub-paragraph (a) applies, request the applicant to complete the defective application or, in the case to which sub-paragraph (b) applies, supply the applicant with the approved form or request further information and evidence.
(2) An application made on a form provided by the authority is properly completed if completed in accordance with the instructions on the form, including any instructions to provide information and evidence in connection with the application.
5.—(1) If an application made by electronic communication is defective the authority must provide the person making the application with an opportunity to correct the defect.
(2) An application made by electronic communication is defective if the applicant does not provide all the information the authority requires.
6. In a particular case the authority may determine that an application made by telephone is only valid if the person making the application approves a written statement of that person’s circumstances provided by the authority.
7.—(1) If an application made by telephone is defective the authority must provide the person making the application with an opportunity to correct the defect.
(2) An application made by telephone is defective if the applicant does not provide all the information the authority requests during the telephone call.