The system for your road fund license (or tax disc) if you prefer is changing from 1st October 2014. No longer will your car require a little piece of paper in the window; instead it will all be handled electronically and the information kept on computer systems. Cameras will monitor number plates to ensure that drivers comply with the new system.
Perhaps the worst aspect of the change is that the tax is tied to the owner and vehicle. If you sell your car you must notify the DVLA immediately of the sale. Anyone buying a car must pay the tax on it before they will be able to drive it otherwise an offence will be committed. The system for paying the tax will remain the same, i.e. online payment can be made or alternatively you can take a trip to the post office. The difference will be that you won’t get a tax disc to put in your window anymore.
The purpose behind the change is to make it easier to catch tax dodgers out as well as reduce bureaucracy and costs. The final point to note is that if you do sell your car, you can seek a refund for any full calendar months you have left on it. If you sell your vehicle shortly after taxing it, then this could be quite a good idea! Alternatively, if you want to save the hassle of applying for the refund you could sell close to the due date of the tax renewal.
As always, your thoughts in the comments section below are appreciated.
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