Change of sort code

Following the banking crisis UK banks have undergone a number of reforms and further regulation now requires them to ring-fence smaller retail and corporate activities from more complex wholesale and investment banking activities.  Most UK banks have satisfied this requirement by setting up a new ‘ring-fenced’ bank resulting in the required changes to the council’s sort-code.  

What do I need to do?

If you make payments to the council through a Standing Order or as a regular transfer from your account, you will need to contact your bank to update the payment details they hold at the earliest opportunity. This will ensure that any payment you make continue to reach the council and are allocated to your account accordingly.  

What if I pay by DD?

If you currently pay for your Council tax, Business rates, Garage rents, Housing Benefit Overpayment or any other council service by Direct Debit (DD) you do not need to take any further action.  We will automatically collect payments using the new sort code in accordance with your DD instruction you have lodged with the council.

If you wish to set up a DD please download and complete a form below or alternatively call 020 8207 2277:

What if I pay using a different method?

If you normally pay using our website - https://www.hertsmere.gov.uk/Pay-It/Pay-It.aspx - the Automated Payment line (ATP), via the Post-Office or PayPoint you need to take no further action these as these payment channels will automatically be updated.

What will happen if I have made a payment to the old sort-code?

Barclays will automatically be redirecting payments made to the old sort-code to the correct sort-code for a limited time. However, it is important that you update any standing orders you have to ensure that the correct payment details are used going forward.