Your Questions Answered
Is the site secure?
Torfaen’s web site is a secure site. We are committed to protecting your privacy online. This site uses a digital certificate, which is similar to an electronic passport. This digital certificate has been issued to Torfaen to prove we are who we say we are and so that you know, you can trust us with sensitive information.
You automatically download the certificate into your browser the first time you use the online payment option. When you enter the secure area of our web site, you will see a padlock icon appear in the bottom hand corner of your browser window. You can click on the padlock to be sure that it is Torfaen you are trusting.
Is it safe to pay online?
To ensure that no-body can read the information you send us, our secure server software encrypts all your personal information. Encryption means taking original data (e.g. your payment card number and home address) and converting it into coded data so that it is unrecognisable as it travels across the internet.
We comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 ensuring the protection and care of personal information. This means that information you give us electronically will only be used for the purpose you intended.
What measures are in place to detect fraudulent card payments?
As from January 2008 the Authority’s pay online service is fully compliant with the latest anti fraud measures introduced by the banks to combat the fraudulent use of cards where the card holder is not present (i.e. payments over the phone and internet). The anti fraud measures are aimed at verifying that the person making the payment is in fact the cardholder.
When providing your card details to us to make a payment over the phone or internet you will be asked to provide the 3 digit card security code on the reverse of your card.
Additionally our site is 3DSecure which is the term used to describe "Mastercard Securecode" and "Verified by Visa". 3DSecure requires a password to be entered by the card holder before a payment can be authorised. Card holders must register for this service via their card issue’s website. If your card issuer requires 3DSecure passwords for internet transactions then you will be presented with a separate web page which will prompt you for your password. Payment will only be taken if a valid password is entered.
Mastercard who own the Maestro brand have mandated that ALL Internet payments made using a Maestro or Mastercard MUST be verified using 3DSecure.
For more information about 3DSecure and how it applies to you please contact your card issuer direct.
What can I pay online?
Council Tax, Business Rates, Housing Rents, Council Water Rates, Housing Benefit Overpayments and Council invoices.
Why can’t I pay other bills like planning fees, overdue library charges and education course fees?
It is planned to incorporate all Council payments online in the future. However, if you wish to make payment for Council services which is not mentioned in the online payment list, please telephone Call Torfaen on 01495 766002.
Can I pay more than one bill?
Yes. If you wish to pay, for example, your council tax, rent and council water rates, follow the instructions given during the transaction.
How else can I pay?
To find out the other ways to pay, visit the Ways to Pay| page.
Which cards do you accept?
We accept Debit and Credit Cards. You can pay with Visa Debit, Visa Electron, Switch, Solo, Visa Credit or Mastercard.
Can I have a receipt?
Yes, a receipt will be displayed on screen when your payment is accepted. You can print this screen using your browser.
What if my payment card is refused?
There are two reasons why your payment card may not be accepted. These are:
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Invalid card type - please ensure the card you are using is one of those shown above
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Authorisation not accepted by the bank - there are many reasons why this may happen and we suggest you contact your bank directly
Cards are never refused by Torfaen.