3 Apr 09 Rate bills issued

The bill shows the amount owed for the billing period 2009/10 as well as any arrears carried forward from previous years.

An LPS spokesperson said: “If you pay your rate bill in full before the ‘discount date’ shown on your bill you will receive an early payment discount. Ratepayers should allow five working days for payment to reach your rate account.

“Alternatively you can make 10 monthly instalments. The easiest way to do this is by direct debit. Last year all rates paid via direct debit were collected on the last banking day of the month. Responding to feedback from customers LPS are now offering ratepayers a choice of three collection dates; 7th of the month; 15th of the month; or last banking day of the month.”

The money raised from rates pays for regional services such as roads, education and healthcare. It also pays for council services such as recreational facilities, bin collection and tourism.

The spokesperson continued: “If you are having trouble paying your rate bill you must contact LPS. There is a range of help available to those who have difficulty paying their rate bill.”

LPS have set up a dedicated team to ensure that those entitled to benefits and reliefs claim them. They will be working closely with trusted intermediaries such as the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The spokesperson said: “There are now a number of rate reliefs available to help with payment of rates. These include: Housing Benefit and Rate Relief, Lone Pensioner Allowance and Disabled Person's Allowance. The savings threshold that applies to the low income relief scheme has also been increased from £16,000 to £50,000 for those over pensionable age.”

More information is available on the LPS website.

Notes to Editors:

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