How to apply for the Northern Ireland High Street Voucher Scheme, which is set to begin in the coming weeks.
Many people are asking how the application process for the High Street Voucher Scheme will operate as the anticipated debut date approaches.
The scheme, which will see everyone over the age of 18 in Northern Ireland eligible to receive a £100 voucher to spend, will begin September 12th, according to the Department for the Economy.
However, no date has been specified for the scheme's inauguration, with applications due on October 11.
Because the voucher scheme is intended to aid “bricks and mortar” businesses in their recovery from the coronavirus outbreak, the card will not able to be used for online purchases.
The electoral register will be the primary source of verification; if your name is found on the list, you will be sent your card. If you are not on the register, other databases such as the DVLA and DfC will be used to verify your identity, followed by an appeals process if you are not found.
For people who are unable to complete an online application, a phone application process will be implemented, as well as the opportunity to apply on behalf of another person with their permission.
How to apply for the High Street Voucher Scheme
When the online portal opens, you must:
Register online on NI Direct. You will be presented with an information page on the High Street Scheme and a button to launch the registration process.
8 pieces of information will be requested during the registration process; Name, Address, DOB, Gender, Disability, NI Number, Driving Licence number (optional) and mobile phone number and email address.
You can register to complete an application on behalf of a limited number of other people, however, you must have their permission and their personal details.
Following completion of the online registration process, you will receive an email confirming the receipt of the application. The information provided will first be checked against electoral register database followed by Driver Vehicle Licencing Agency. This is an automated process with no access to your personal information.
Once your identity has been confirmed the details required to complete the process will be sent to the pre-paid card provider and you will receive an email to inform you that the registration process is now complete and when you should expect to receive your card.
If you are unsuccessful in the first phase of checks then your identity will be checked against a further suite of government databases. If you identity is confirmed then your details will be forwarded to the pre-paid card provider and you will receive a confirmation email. If your application is unsuccessful, you will be informed and directed to the appeals process.
Further details on the £100 pre-paid card
Following a successful application to the scheme, you will be provided with a £100 pre-paid card which can be used in any local business with debit/credit card technology. The card can be used in card terminals that include a swipe facility as well as a pin facility.
Once you receive your card you will be required to verify it by SMS, phone or on the computer before you are able to use it. You will be able to use it alongside other forms of payment subject to the merchant’s agreement.
You can use the card to order and pay over the phone to purchase services from local businesses however you will not be able to purchase online services or products, pay for financial services or to purchase legal services.
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