Somerset Council is moving to a new system for council tax, benefits and business rates.
Starting on the evening of 29 September, there will be a minimum 3-week disruption for Somerset West and Taunton residents while the changeover takes place.
During this time:
- Online Forms – there will be some disruption to online forms. More details will be available on our website nearer the time. Claims for benefits or changes in circumstance will still be available.
- Customer Services will be unable to process changes or claims during this time but will continue to give advice.
- Our website will show updates and will let customers know when services are back.
- Housing Benefit customers. Customers will receive a letter with details of their Housing Benefit payments dates. This is just to keep you informed as we will be aligning payment dates across Somerset.
- Payments online and via the automated telephony line can be made as normal.
- Direct Debits will also continue as normal. We don’t anticipate having any issues with Direct Debits, but should customers wish to cancel or amend their Direct Debit for 1, 8, 15, 20, 23 October, or 1 or 8 of November payment, they will need to contact their bank directly. Bank Details: Our Service User Numbers and Mandate References are changing. Look out for more information.
Residents are reminded that the Council will never contact them to ask for bank details by phone, email or text message.
For the latest updates on the new system, visit the Council’s notice page for Sedgemoor and Somerset West and Taunton residents.
