Somerset Council is migrating its system for council tax, benefits and business rates, with the legacy Mendip area being the first area to make the switch.
This important update will bring a new, improved customer portal and easier payment options, but there will be some temporary disruption to services while the changeover takes place.
Councillor Liz Leyshon, Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Resources, Procurement and Performance, said:
This system migration is an important step in improving the way we deliver services for our residents. While there will be a short period of disruption, the new system will make it easier for people to manage their accounts, make payments, and access support online.
We appreciate everyone’s patience during the transition and encourage residents to keep an eye on our website for the latest updates. We will keep Citizens Advice informed, as another form of support for the migration.
System downtime – late August
From late August, the current Mendip system will be unavailable for at least 3 weeks. During this time:
- Online forms – Some disruption is expected. More details will be available on the Council’s website.
- Customer Services – Staff will be unable to process changes or claims but will still be available to give advice.
- Website updates – the Council’s website will display the latest information, including when services are back online
- Housing benefit customers – Payments will continue as usual. You will receive a letter confirming your housing benefit payment details. This is for your information only and does not indicate a problem.
- Payments – You can continue to make payments online or via the automated telephone payment line as normal.
- Direct debits – These will continue as normal. No issues are anticipated; however, if you wish to cancel or amend your Direct Debit for the 15 September or 1 October payment, please contact your bank directly.
What’s new?
- Payment cards – Existing cards can still be used, but no new ones will be issued. Future bills will include a barcode that can be used for payments at any Post Office or PayPoint location.
- New customer portal – Once the upgrade is complete, a new portal will be available for residents to view their Council Tax account. Registration details will be published on the Council’s website.
- Bank details – Service User Numbers are changing. Further information will be provided in due course.
Stay informed
For the latest updates and information on the system upgrade, visit the Council’s Important notice for Mendip residents page.
Residents are reminded that the Council will not contact you and ask for bank details by phone, email, or text message.
