Changes to the way people can pay their council bills in Stockton-on-Tees Borough are on the way

Residents across the Borough are being encouraged to pay their Council bills digitally as the demand for in-person payments has fallen significantly.

Following a review of how people paid their bills, the Council found the number of people using their cash offices and the volume of payments processed had fallen by 70 per cent since 2020. The value of the transactions has also reduced.

Research showed that during this time many people stopped visiting cash offices in Stockton Central, Billingham and Thornaby Libraries in person, prompting hundreds of users to switch to more efficient payment methods such as moving to direct debit or setting up an online Council Tax account.

In recent years handling cash and cheque payments has also become increasingly expensive and now requires additional security.

Due to the reduction in demand, the Council's three cash offices will close on 26 January, 2024.

I normally use the Council's cash offices, how will I pay my bills now?

The council will be supporting regular cash office users with practical advice and information to help them set up an online account or move to direct debit.

Many Council bills can be paid at all Post Offices and at retailers who are part of the Payzone network which are in 39 locations across the Borough.  

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said:"We don't take decisions to close services lightly but the number of people using our cash offices has been falling while the cost of running them has been rising.

"There are 39 other locations across the Borough where bills can be paid, and there will be support on offer to help people set up a Direct Debit or an online account.

"Switching to alternative payment methods is more efficient and secure and an online account is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it more convenient for people to use."

For more information visit the cash office closures webpage. 

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