Pay by Direct Debit, says council

As council tax bills start to arrive through letterboxes across the borough, local residents are being encouraged to sign up to pay by direct debit.

Almost 70% of households in the Rochdale borough already pay their council tax using the system, meaning they don’t have to worry about remembering to pay each month or quarter.

Residents can choose to make monthly payments straight from their bank account on the 1st, 9th, 15th, 19th or 25th of each month - or to pay quarterly, half-yearly or annually instead.

Direct Debit is a safe and easy method of payment and enables customers to avoid writing cheques, paying postage, or queuing up to pay. It also means customers are covered by a Direct Debit guarantee, should an error occur.

Councillor Greg Couzens, cabinet member for finance on Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Direct debit is the cheapest payment method for us to administer so saves us money that we can then spend on providing other services. It’s also the most efficient way for you to pay – you don’t have to remember to pay your bill and you can choose when your regular payment date is.”

Councillor Couzens added: “Direct Debit is simple to set up – just give us a call, then let the council and your bank or building society do the rest. You stay in control and can cancel your direct debit any time. You will be given advance notice of how much is to come out of your account and when it will be claimed.”

For more information or to pay by Direct Debit please contact the council on 0845 121 2970. You can also download a Direct Debit form or pay your bill online at www.rochdale.gov.uk/counciltax