A number of residents have had their January council tax payments taken from their bank accounts today, three days earlier than expected.
Some council taxpayers who pay via direct debit say they have woken up this morning to see the money has gone from their accounts.
UPDATE: Council tax early payments: Milton Keynes City Council issue official apology and advice
In a statement, a Council spokesperson said: "Direct Debit payments to pay Council Tax, Business Rates and Housing Benefit Overpayments that would usually be collected on the first working day of the month in January have been taken from bank accounts on 29 December."
"We would like to offer our sincere apologies to those affected by this error. If as a result of the payment being taken early, you incur bank charges, please email Counciltax@milton-keynes.gov.uk."
"Please include ‘Bank Charges’ in the subject line so that we may prioritise your email and please provide evidence of the charges you have incurred as a result of this early payment request."
"You are also covered by the Direct Debit indemnity scheme. This means you may be able to claim an immediate refund from your bank. Please contact them for further details."
One resident posted on Twitter: "Why have the council tax payments gone out today? The day BEFORE payday...."
Another added: "How are you taking January's council tax payment early out of our banks? People can't afford this and for some will prove a very costly error on your part!"
Some residents expressed concern that the early payment could cause them to go overdrawn and face bank charges.
A number say they have had the payment refunded by contacting their bank and explaining the situation.
MKFM understands that not all residents who pay council tax via direct debit have been affected by the issue.
