Paying your Council Tax by Direct Debit guarantees you an immediate refund if we ever make an error. You are free to cancel at any time, and you will be advised at least 10 days in advance of any changes.

There are many benefits to paying by Direct Debit:

• You don't have to remember to pay every month.
• No queuing at banks or post offices.
• No cost of a phone call to make your payments.
• No cheques to write, or cash to carry.
• Protection through the Direct Debit Guarantee.
• A choice of payment dates, 1st or 16th of the month.

How it works

Once your bank or building society has accepted that a Direct Debit can be paid from your account, we ask them for the instalment amount each month.

At least 10 days before the first payment is due to come out of your account, we will notify you of the amount and date of your payments for the year.

So that you have plenty of time to raise a query or cancel your Direct Debit, we will tell you about any changes to your payments at least 10 days before your next payment is due.

If you are unable to set up your direct debit online, please call us on 01438 242875.

Control and protection

The Direct Debit Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that take part in the Direct Debit Scheme. The efficiency and security of the scheme is monitored and protected by your own bank or building society

If the amounts to be paid or the payment dates change, we will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited, or as otherwise agreed.

If an error is made by us or by your bank or building society, you are guaranteed a full and immediate refund from your branch of the amount paid.

You can cancel your Direct Debit at any time by contacting your bank or building society. It is important that you let us know if you cancel your Direct Debit.