I’m on
Housing Benefit so I can’t pay by direct debit-NOT TRUE
If you have
made an application for Housing Benefit and are entitled to it, or you are
already in receipt of Housing Benefit, the Direct Debit will be continually
monitored. Should your entitlement to Housing Benefit change, you will be
contacted in writing and advised of the necessary action prior to a direct
debit being requested.
I can’t pay by Direct Debit as I am
in arrears-NOT
TRUE
Even if you
are in arrears on your account, it is still possible to pay by Direct Debit
monthly. Your Direct Debit will be
calculated to spread arrears over an agreed number of payments, or in line with
any previous Court Orders if applicable.
Once the arrears are repaid, the direct debit will be amended to reflect
the reduction and you will be notified in writing of these changes.
If a Direct Debit Payment is taken
in error, I have the right to a full refund-TRUE
Where ever you
see the Direct Debit symbol, this means that the payments are covered by the
Direct debit guarantee. If an error is
made by Gosport Borough Council, a full refund
will be issued.
If I pay by Direct Debit, I am not
entitled to the Rent Free weeks (if paying rent)-NOT TRUE
You will still
be entitled to the Rent Free weeks (as long as you are not paying arrears as well). However,
your monthly payments will be reduced slightly as the Rent Free weeks are
spread evenly through the year, ie, 48 weeks rent due ÷ 12 monthly
payments. If you take up the Direct Debit facility during the financial year, your calculations will be adjusted
accordingly.
Direct Debits can be taken from my bank any time during the month-DEFINITELY NOT TRUE!
You have the
choice of the 1st or 15th of the month, which ever suits your
financial circumstances. Unless your bank operates on a clearance time for Direct Debits, the money should not leave
your bank account until the date specified. Please note, however, if the Debit Date falls
on a weekend or Bank Holiday, some banks submit the payment the previous
working day.
If you are considering paying for your charges by
Direct Debit and wish to discuss your options further, please feel free to
contact the Income Recovery Team on
(023) 9254 5286 and we will be happy to
help. Or click here for a Direct Debit Mandate.
