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ONLINE TAX & BENEFITS ACCOUNTS SERVICE WILL PROVIDE 24/7 ACCESS

The introduction of an online customer account system by Croydon Council means that anyone with access to the internet can access a host of secure information at their own convenience.

The new customer improvements mean that those registering for the online operation will enjoy a much easier service and will be able to:
• check their balances & statements;
• examine personal payment history;
• inspect payments made and due to be received.

In addition, landlords can check benefits payments on behalf of tenants.

The service links with current payment facilities and online forms to allow customers to communicate with the council or make payments at the time of their enquiry.

As well as being handier for many users, the online facility will free resources to allow greater personal attention to be given to callers with complex needs and enquiries. The council also expects the switch towards electronic information-giving will mean a faster service for the smaller number of people who will be either visiting the council's town centre offices or calling-in by phone.

Considerable attention has gone in to ensuring the security of the online system. Once signed-up customers will be sent their own unique identification number to ensure the online communications with the council remain confidential.

For taxpayers as a whole, the council says the initiative is another step to secure better value for money through providing a service that is not so labour-intensive.

Added Councillor Barwell: "Our intention as a council is to harness the potential of greater efficiency and economy through doing more business online. Traditionally councils have not been as advanced in this area as some of the private sector utilities and financial services that can devote massive investment to develop IT solutions. But we're catching up fast and the online revenues and benefits service is another example of how the council is addressing the needs and expectations of local people."