and & Property Services (LPS) and nidirect have teamed up to answer questions from domestic ratepayers about their bills.
LPS will hold a one hour session on http://www.nidirect.gov.uk on Thursday 15 April to answer individual queries.
If ratepayers have specific questions in relation to their bill they can email feedback@nidirect.gov.uk before 13 April. Responses will be posted on the website, on Thursday 15 April, at 2:30pm.
An LPS spokesperson said: “Over the past week rate bills have been issued to homes and businesses across Northern Ireland. Ratepayers will have also have received a new information booklet with their bill. It contains a lot of useful information about how their bill is calculated, methods of payment, and how they can get help with paying their rates.
“A range of reliefs and entitlements are available to help those who are struggling to pay their rates, but many people are simply not claiming the allowances they are entitled to.
“We would encourage ratepayers who would like further information about the help that is available or who have any other rating queries to participate in the webchat.”
Email your questions to feedback@nidirect.gov.uk
Names, email addresses and any other personal details from enquirers will not be published and they will not be used for any other purpose. The responses will remain on nidirect for four weeks.
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Ratepayers are reminded that if they want to receive the early payment discount they must make an arrangement to pay their bill as soon as possible as the deadline is fast approaching.
A spokesperson for Land & Property Services explained: “If LPS receives payment in full, in a single payment by the discount day, which this year is 7 May, you will receive a 4% early payment discount. The onus is on ratepayers to ensure that payment is received by 7 May. To ensure payment reaches us on time you must allow a minimum of five working days for payment to reach LPS.
“A number of payment options are available, including cheque, cash, and debit card. This year we’re also offering a new and convenient way to pay your rates with a ‘Rates QuickPay Card’ which customers can simply bring along to any Post Office or one of the 800 participating payzone outlets and pay their bill either in full or by instalments.
Responding to customer feedback ratepayers also have for the first time the option of paying their bill online. Those who choose to pay their bill in instalments will not be eligible for a discount.”
Full details of all payment methods are included in the booklet all ratepayers will have received with their bill or alternatively by contacting NI Direct by telephone on 101 or online at the nidirect website
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Notes to editors:
Media enquiries only to DFP Communications Office on 028 9025 5734 or 028 9052 7417. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
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