Selby Council fails to stop rent payments going out early following a tech error

If you are due to pay your Selby council housing rent by direct debit on the 1st or 2nd of January the council told us earlier there has been a technical error.

They said it would result in the payment being taken from your bank account today ( Wednesday 28 December) instead of next month.

The council has issued an update today saying that has now happened and they have some advice for those struggling with money over Christmas.

The council says: “We have been in touch with the bank to try to rectify this issue. Unfortunately, we have been unable to prevent the payments from being taken.

“We have been advised that the direct debit guarantee can help as the payment was taken early.

“We are unable to process this on your behalf.

“If your direct debit housing rent payment has been taken from your account and you want the money returned, please contact your bank straight away and ask for the money to be returned under the direct debit guarantee.

“We are sincerely sorry about this issue and if you have experienced any fines or charges due to your direct debit being taken early, please contact us when we are open again on Tuesday 3 January.

“If you know anyone who usually pays their housing rent by direct debit at the beginning of the month, please share this message with them.”