6 May - rates discount deadline for domestic ratepayers fast approaching
Date published:
A 4% discount is available to eligible ratepayers if they pay their rate bill in full by Friday 6 May 2016.
The discount is available to ratepayers of occupied or vacant domestic properties. Land & Property Services (LPS) is reminding customers who want to receive the early payment discount to pay their bill as soon as possible as the discount deadline is fast approaching.
A spokesperson for LPS explained: “If LPS receives payment in full, in a single payment by the discount day, you will receive a 4% discount on this year’s assessment. You must allow a minimum of five working days for payment to reach us. However, if you choose to pay your bill in instalments, please be aware you will not be eligible for a discount.”
Paying by Direct Debit has its benefits. The LPS spokesperson said: “This is the easiest way to pay your bill, including a single full payment. It takes all the hassle out of making manual payments and means you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or getting it to us on time. Currently 55% of ratepayers in Northern Ireland pay their bills this way.”
If you require further information on paying by Direct Debit, you can LPS on 0300 200 7801 or visit nidirect.
As in previous years, there are a number of other ways to pay. These include online via the nidirect website, at the Post Office or any PayPoint outlet using the ‘Rates Quick Pay Card,’ by phone or in person at an LPS Customer Information Centre.
Concluding, the spokesperson emphasised that people who are struggling to pay their rate bill should contact LPS urgently: “I would encourage anyone having difficulty paying their rate bill to contact LPS as soon as possible by calling 0300 200 7801. We will explore each option open to you by reviewing your circumstances and may be able to discuss alternative payment arrangements.
“There is also a range of reliefs and entitlements available to help you pay your rate bill. More information is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/rates. Last year LPS made 65,850 payment arrangements with ratepayers to help them manage their rating debt.”