Information about paying your rent

This page explains the different ways you can choose to pay your rent. If you have any questions or concerns about your rent account, please get in touch.

	Paying rent for the first time? Read Monty's Guide to paying your rent

How and where to pay

Remember: if you have any queries or are experiencing financial difficulties, we are here to help.  Please call us on 01303 853700.

Your rent is due each week; if you wish to pay monthly, the month's rent must be paid in advance.

You can pay your rent and any arrears you have using the following methods.

• By Direct Debit

You can now pay by paperless Direct Debit.  This is the most cost effective and efficient method of payment. 

We can take payments on the 1st and the 16th of each month.

All of your information is taken securely over the telephone, so there is no need to complete any forms. 

If there are any changes in your rent, we will notify you in writing within ten working days. 

Please note - paying by Direct Debit is an option available only on non-Housing Benefit accounts, due to the fact that benefits may change regularly. 

If you would like to discuss this option further, please call 01303 853700.

• By Standing Order

You can pay via your bank with a Standing Order Mandate. If you would like to request a weekly or monthly mandate, please call us on 01303 853700.

• By Debit or Credit Card    

You can pay by most Debit or Credit Cards on our website www.shepway.gov.uk or by phoning the Rent Department on 01303 853700.

Please use your Payment Reference when using this service. There is no charge for paying by Debit Card, but there is a 1.5% charge on every transaction made by Credit Card. 

There is also a 24 hour payment line available. Payments can be made by Debit or Credit Card by phoning 01303 853555. 

• By post

Crossed cheques or Postal Orders made payable to Shepway District Council, should be sent to: East Kent Housing, 3-5 Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent CT20 2SQ.

Please quote your Payment Reference on the back of all payments

• At your local PayPoint outlet or Post Office

A swipe card can be ordered for you, which you will need to take to a PayPoint Outlet or Post Office each time you make a payment. You will

NOT be charged for this service.  Until you receive your card please use one of the other methods listed to keep your account up to date. 

• Rent direct by Housing Benefit

If you are going to claim Housing Benefit, please be aware that it is your responsibility to ensure that the claim form is completed correctly and relevant documentation is supplied. 

Please ensure that any change in your circumstances is reported to Housing Benefit immediately. 

To contact them, you can either:

Telephone: 01303 853555

Email: Revenues.Benefits@shepway.gov.uk

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