Bega Valley Shire Council's new direct debit system – Payble – is making it simpler and easier for ratepayers to pay their rates and water bills.
Director Business and Governance, Iliada Bolton encouraged the shire's ratepayers to consider the Payble direct debit system when the annual rates notices are issued in mid-July.
"The benefits of paying rates and water bills through Payble are substantial, including the ability to pay weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly or make a one-off payment," Ms Bolton said.
"All you need to do is set the payments via your bank account, credit or debit card knowing this will be safely and securely managed for you.
"You can select to receive an SMS reminder of your upcoming payment and you can easily change the frequency of the payment or update your information at any time.
"Also, there are no extra fees when you pay with Payble."
Ms Bolton said the feedback we're getting is that for some, payments made weekly or fortnightly are more manageable for budgets compared to a quarterly lump sum."
"Payble will indicate the payment amount required so rates are paid in full by the due date," Ms Bolton said.
"It also enables payments to be made by credit card or debit card, which was previously unavailable as a direct debit payment method.
"There will be a QR code on the bottom of your next rates notice which will allow you to easily set up and manage your own direct debit arrangement to pay your rates and water usage notices."
More information on the benefits and abilities of Payble is available on Council's website.
Council understands that sometimes it can be difficult to meet your financial commitments. We have a Financial Hardship Assistance procedure that allows eligible ratepayers to apply for an interest free payment plan. If all payments are made as agreed, any interest that was charged can be waived.
If you don't meet the hardship criteria, you may still request an extended payment arrangement; however, interest will continue to accrue.
Please contact Council (02) 6499 2222 if you require assistance.
