More and more Eastbourne residents are discovering that the easiest way to pay their Council Tax is to set up a Direct Debit. This method of payment authorises the Council to collect Council Tax direct from its customer's Bank or Building Society accounts, after informing them of the amount due each month.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Spokesperson for Finance, Councillor Chris Williams, says, “Collecting Council Tax by cheque or cash is very expensive, and unfortunately it is the Council Tax payer who has to pay. As a Council we are committed to keeping Council Tax to a minimum, you can help us by paying by Direct Debit, the savings are substantial and if you pay by Direct Debit you are guaranteed, should a mistake occur, for an instant and unquestioned, correction.”
This year the Council is canvassing the 15,000 cash and cheque payers in Eastbourne when annual Council Tax bills are sent to local residents early in March. It is hoping to raise awareness of the benefits of paying by Direct Debit and encourage increased take-up of this method of payment.
Setting up a Direct Debit is quick and easy – there are no cheques to write, no postal delays, and no waiting around in queues. It’s free too – no bank fees or post office charges. What could be better? It’s a cheaper way of paying, and savings made by Eastbourne Borough Council go towards keeping the Council Tax low.
The Direct Debit scheme is protected by a guarantee given by the banking industry, which gives Direct Debit users peace of mind, whatever Bank or Building Society they use.
Those residents who sign up to pay by Direct Debit will be entered into a prize draw. Local firms have recognised the value of Direct Debit, and as a way of supporting the Council and the local community, have donated prizes to be won.
If you would like more information on paying by Direct Debit, please call the Council on 01323-415803.
