Minister encourages ratepayers to pay by Direct Debit

Minister encourages ratepayers to pay by Direct Debit

Finance Minister Sammy Wilson is encouraging people to spread the cost of their rate bill by signing up to pay by Direct Debit.

Land & Property Services (LPS) will be issuing rate bills to homes and businesses across Northern Ireland in two weeks time, week commencing 4 April.

Sammy Wilson said: "Payment of rates is essential providing the basis for investment in vital public services such as healthcare, education and roads as well as helping to fund a number of council services including recreational facilities, bin collection, tourism and local events.

“The current economic climate is putting real pressure on everyone as we, as individuals, try to juggle the financial strains of everyday living.

“As the annual rate bill comes through our doors in the next couple of weeks I would encourage individuals to assess if paying by Direct Debit could make paying their rate bill easier. Direct Debit can help spread the cost over a 10 month period or for those who prefer to pay their bill in one payment they can take advantage of an early payment discount.”

To set up a Direct Debit you can:

• Call 101 (028 9151 3101) or to use Textphone dial 18001101. Provide LPS with your Bank/Building Society details and they will do the rest for you
• Complete and return the Direct Debit form included with your bill using the freepost envelope provided
• You can download a form using following link: Direct Debit Application form - (PDF 456KB)

A number of other payment options are available including;

• standing order, telephone and internet banking,
• cheque,
• online and
• using a ‘Rates QuickPay Card’ which customers bring along to any Post Office or one of the 800 participating payzone outlets.

Full details of all payment methods are included in the booklet ratepayers will receive with their bill or online at www.nidirect.gov.uk/rates.

Alternatively you can contact NI Direct by telephone on 101 (028 9151 3101)