Paid PCN on line - Incorrect amount taken

[nickydee]

A good friend of mine received a PCN for a parking offence from a local authority. The penalty charge was stated at £70 or 50% less if paid within 14 days. My friend went to pay on line and after submitting the PCN Number correctly, the website demanded £25 i.e 50% of the lessor charge of £50 which applies for other contraventions but not the £35 as stated on the PCN. There was no facility for changing this amount, so he was only able to pay what was demanded even through it appeared incorrect. My friend paid the £25 and has a receipt which clearly shows the correct PCN number and the amount paid of £25. 28 days have now lapsed and upon checking the Councils website, the system is now showing that an additional amount of £45 is due i.e £70 less the £25 already paid.

So should my friend contact the council now or wait for the inevitable NtO.

Edited by nickydee on Tuesday 17th February 19:46

[73mark]

Yes he should by way of a personal hearing. Tell him to take all the proof he has and he will win the case.

[SteveSteveson]

Call them first thing in the morning and explain the error. I asume the website didn't ask for an amount to be put in, but said how much was being charged. I'm Sure they will sort it out as long as he is polite about it and explains nicely. Don't get artsy and get their backs up as that will just make them not want to help (not saying he will, but some people do).

[73mark]

If they won't listen by phone a personal hearing is done by an independent arbitrator.