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17 August 2009 - Wilson announces review of payment choices for ratepayers

Northern Ireland ratepayers may be afforded even more choice in the methods which they can choose to pay their rates Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has said.
Land & Property Services (LPS) is currently undertaking a review, looking at the range of payment methods which it offers ratepayers which will include consideration of the option to pay by credit card.
Mr Wilson said: “In carrying out this review, LPS will be consulting with consumer groups and other appropriate organisations. Decisions arising from the review will be made before the issuing of 2010 rate bills.”
The Minister also reminded ratepayers of the range of methods currently available to pay their rate bill.
In particular ratepayers are being encouraged to avail of the benefits of paying by direct debit.
The Minister said: “Direct Debit is the most flexible, secure and increasingly popular payment method among ratepayers. Approximately 300,000 ratepayers use this method of payment.
“Paying by direct debit is the safest and most secure way to pay your rates. Direct debit payers are covered by a comprehensive guarantee which means you get a full and immediate refund from your bank if a mistake is made.”
In addition to direct debit, ratepayers can make payments at any payzone outlet, post office, bank or building society, by standing order, or by sending a cheque to the address shown at the top of the rate bills.
To ensure that payments are properly allocated, ratepayers are always required to provide their account ID and ratepayer ID. To ensure this information is properly recorded ratepayers should read full details of payment methods from the leaflet ‘Information about your rate bill’ which was enclosed with bills. This information can also be accessed online at www.nidirect.gov.uk or www.lpsni.gov.uk.
In all instances ratepayers should allow a minimum of five working days for payment to reach your rate account.
Notes to Editors:
  1. To provide increased flexibility, Land & Property Services has introduced three payments dates for direct debit. Ratepayers can chose between 7th, 15th, or the last the last banking day of the month.
  2. Media enquiries to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7374. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.