A WOMAN has been fined after she and her partner defrauded Tendring Council out of more than £3,000.

Stephanie Smith failed to tell the council that she and partner Simon Ward were receiving tax credits from the Department of Work and Pensions.

Between September 1, 2007, and June 13 this year, the couple received more than £2,600 in housing benefit and £576 in council tax benefit.

Their entitlement to the benefit changed once the tax credits were applied, Colchester Magistrates’ Court heard.

Smith, 31, of Canning Street, Harwich, admitted the offence when appearing at court yesterday.

The court heard Ward was dealt with at a separate hearing.

Stuart Cooper, prosecuting for the council, said: “On September 11, they both signed an application for council tax benefit which includes the declaration that they will tell the council of any changes.

“They were awarded council tax benefit because he was working and she was receiving child benefit.

“They said they were trying to get tax credits but they failed to declare them when the notice arrived.”

He said Smith admitted she was aware of the awards but Ward received them directly into his account.

Smith, who was not represented, told the court: I didn’t go out to defraud anyone – it was a genuine mistake.

“I’m trying my best to get a career for myself and I’m starting university in March.

“I am willing to pay back all the money.”

Magistrates fined her £150 plus a £15 victim surcharge and ordered her to pay £300 in court costs.