Digital transformation helps councils collect council tax

A digital transformation programme for Vale of the White Horse District Council and South Oxfordshire District Council has helped result in millions of pounds in council tax being recouped.

Partnering with Capita, the two councils are delivering enhanced revenue collections through new digital initiatives, including a drive to promote direct debit payments for council tax, electronic billing and a new online portal to manage bills.

Over 80 per cent of residents now use direct debit payments, helping the councils save money, streamline their back-office functions and allow staff to focus on more complex issues.

Vale of White Horse collected £7.4 million extra in council tax in 2016 compared with 2014, while South Oxfordshire collected an additional £6.8 million over the same period.

Matthew Barber, leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “With increasing numbers paying by direct debit, and the growing popularity of online billing, we are seeing fewer people fall into arrears on their council tax payments which is really good news. By ensuring people pay their bills on time it protects the public purse and means more money is available to support our vital services.”

Jane Murphy, deputy leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, added: “We want to do all we can to help our residents stay on top of their council tax payments, and offering them more ways to manage and pay their bills online is having a clear impact.”