Tax disc changes: Are you ready?

From October 1st 2014, the traditional paper system of issuing tax discs is being abolished and replaced with a new electronic system.

To tax your vehicle after this date, you will need to apply online here https://www.gov.uk/tax-disc

The changes tax place from 1st October, however, you won’t need to do anything until your tax is due.

From 1st October you won’t need to display your paper tax disc in your car window (what will we do with all those tax disc holders?)

Paying for your tax

You can do this at the Post Office or from 1st October online or by telephone. From 1st November you will be able to pay by Direct Debit (expect a surcharge).  This can be done 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The online payment system can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/tax-disc

You will either need the 16 digit number from your renewal letter or the 11 digit reference number from your log book to purchase a tax disc.

The telephone number is: 0300 123 4321

Charged at local rate and an automated system, which apparently will only take a couple of minutes (last famous words).  Make sure you have a pen and paper handy to write down the reference number to confirm that you’ve paid for your tax.

IMPORTANT: Buying a new car

From 1 October, when you buy a vehicle, the vehicle tax will no longer be transferred with the vehicle.

You will need to get new vehicle tax before you can use the vehicle.

You can tax the vehicle using the New Keeper Supplement (V5C/2) part of the vehicle registration certificate (V5C) online or by using our automated phone service – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0300 123 4321.

Feel free to ask questions or comment below. Do you think it’s a good idea?