Forgot to pay NCP issued by PCN - What to do next in 2024 (2024)

You are not the only one who is puzzled after receiving an NCP Parking Charge Notice (PCN). Keep in mind that receiving a PCN is more than just a ticket. It’s a notification that you’ve strayed from the parking rules set by NCP. But fear not. Understanding a PCN is simpler than you think.

In this guide, we’ll unfold the layers of an NCP PCN, explaining what it is, what you find in it, and the crucial steps you can take if you receive one. Whether you choose to pay or appeal, this article is your roadmap to navigating the often-confusing world of NCP parking fines.

Let us walk you through…

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Do You Have to Pay NCP Parking Fines?

Encountering NCP Parking Fines can be a perplexing experience. Hence, you might be wondering what happens if you miss a payment. The key here is understanding the implications of NCP parking fines and determining the best course of action.

These fines are enforceable if NCP decides to pursue legal action and are often viewed as invoices. It’s important to know that while NCP fines may feel overwhelming, they are not the final word. There are steps you can take, like appealing your NCP PCN for a resolution.

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NCP Forgot To Pay

Most of the NCP parking sites (that are Pay and Display) have mobile payment options where you can make the related parking payment fast and efficiently.

Additionally, you don’t need to panic if you’ve used NCP’s services but forgot to pay. It is because the NCP website offers an ‘online pay later‘ option, providing a grace period for payment. But keep in mind that you have to make the payment within 24 hours of leaving the car park.

This flexibility is a lifesaver for many. But you may end up receiving PCN if the car park you used is indeed a ‘Pay and Display’ spot, but you did not pay for a ticket before leaving and even forgot to pay for it within 24 hours online.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. There might be options available to resolve the issue without getting it escalated. But you need to act swiftly and reach out to NCP as a start-up to find a reliable solution for your PCN issue.

Will NCP Remind Me To Pay For My Parking?

No, NCP doesn’t send reminders from the moment you leave their park without paying. You have a 24-hour window to settle the payment. This means the responsibility of remembering to pay falls squarely on your shoulders.

After 24 hours have passed since you missed paying the parking fee, the NCP will send you a Parking Charge Notice.

Now, you may be wondering how to avoid NCP fines in the future. The easiest way to avoid facing all this drama is by managing to pay parking tickets on time without forgetting. For that, you can simply keep a reminder on your mobile phone and stick to a parking routine in order to avoid forgetting.

Understanding this lack of reminders is crucial, as it helps you stay proactive in managing your parking commitments with NCP.

What Is An NCP PCN?

The NCP PCN is a short form that is used to indicate a Parking Charge Notice issued by the National Car Parks for a person who has missed paying parking charges within 24 hours in the UK.

The initial characters of the Parking Charge Notice can consist of either two letters or a combination of letters and numbers in the case of a three-character format.

For instance, you may come across combinations like CC, EM, or PC, and alternatively, you might encounter sequences such as BIA or C2C. Your PCN reference number will also begin with the provided letters or numbers. These numbers serve as a guide for accessing payment or appeals options on the website.

What if you haven’t received a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) yet?

It’s better to Pay the parking fee Immediately and get done with it: The easiest way to avoid any issues is to simply pay for your parking as soon as possible. You can do this online via their website, through the NCP app, or by calling their automated payment line at 0330 174 4503.
• Check if you were using ‘Pay Later’: This option allows you to leave the car park without immediate payment. You have up to 72 hours to do so if you used this and haven’t yet paid.
• Double-check your payment: You need to ensure you used the correct method and car park If you believe you did pay. For that, simply check your bank statement for confirmation.

If you have received a PCN:

• Contact NCP: By doing so, you can explain to them about the situation you are currently facing and inquire about options to appeal to the PCN. They may be willing to cancel or reduce the fine if you act quickly. But it always depends on the circ*mstances.
• Review the PCN carefully: You need to make sure it has all the required information, including the date, time, location, and reason for the charge. Additionally, it’s better to check for any errors or inconsistencies.
• Consider appealing: You have 28 days to appeal a PCN. You can do this online through NCP’s website or by writing to them. In the context of the letter, you need to make sure state your reasons for appealing, provide any supporting evidence, and highlight any extenuating circ*mstances.
• Seek legal advice: If you’re unsure about the appeal process or believe you have a strong case, consider consulting a legal professional specialising in parking law.

How Much Is An NCP Parking Charge Notice?

The cost of an NCP Parking Charge Notice varies depending on the location and the nature of the violation. The maximum PCN fine is usually around £50 outside London, whereas it can be higher in the capital.

But keep in mind that you could get a minimum 40% discount from private parking companies if you could manage to settle the parking fee.

Let’s assume you have an NCP PCN asking to pay £100. You can reduce the charge by paying up to £60(£40 discount) if you manage to settle the NCP PCN within 14 days of receiving it.

Is it possible to make instalment payments for an NCP PCN?

Generally, NCP does not accept settling parking charges in instalment payments. However, you can reach out to NCP and discuss with them about the possibility to take a payment plan. Most likely, they will provide you with a solution if you are already facing financial difficulties, and it can be proven.

Can I Refuse To Pay A PCN Issued By NCP?

Receiving a PCN is not like settling a fine issued by a government body. It’s like an invoice. But it can become an enforcement order if NCP chooses to go to court over the PCN against you to recover their parking fees, and they win the case.

If you violate NCP parking regulations on their private property, they have the authority to issue a penalty charge.

Therefore, it’s important to understand the potential consequences of non-payment. You can appeal rather than outright refuse payment if you believe the PCN is unjust.

Here, this Legalbeagles forum user seeks advice to deal with his PCN that was issued by NCP. [source]

What Will NCP Do If I Do Not Pay My Parking Charge Notice?

Ignoring an NCP Parking Charge Notice can lead to a series of actions by the NCP.
Here is a quick breakthrough to explain to you what could happen in general if you ignore NCP’s PCN.

A judge may rule in NCP’s favour if they issue a warning of court action against you and proceed with it. In such a scenario, the court may order you to pay the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) along with additional fees.

It’s important to address the PCN promptly to avoid these complications.

Can I Appeal My NCP Parking Charge Notice?

Yes, appealing an NCP Parking Charge Notice is an option and often a sensible first step if you believe the charge is unjust. The appeal process involves providing evidence to support your case.

However, you can simply initiate an appeal process through NCP’s website, where you’ll have the choice to either pay or appeal by entering your car registration and PCN reference number.

You have the option to challenge your NCP Parking Charge Notice if you believe you have valid reasons for non-payment. During the appeal, you may be required to provide supporting evidence for your decision not to pay the NCP PCN.

NCP aims to respond to your appeal within 28 days of receiving it. Additionally, your Parking Charge Notice (PCN) will be placed on hold until NCP responds to your appeal during this time.

You will be notified through a letter sent to your home or email address if your appeal is successful, and NCP acknowledges that payment is not required. But keep in mind that NCP does not issue appeal responses over the phone.

It is recommended to contact NCP if you don’t receive a response within the stipulated 28 days.

What If NCP Rejects My Parking Charge Notice Appeal?

You have the option to escalate the matter to independent services like the Parking On Private Land Appeals (POPLA) if your initial appeal is rejected by NCP. This service is free and provides an unbiased review of your case.

It’s important to prepare a solid case with evidence for this stage. For that, you can use the Parking On Private Land Appeals (POPLA) service. Their website offers free guidance explaining their process. You can get their service free of charge if you are appealing against a Parking Charge Notice.

What Is The Fastest Way To Pay NCP After I Leave The Car Park?

The fastest way to pay your NCP parking fee after leaving the car park is through the ‘NCP pay later‘ option available on their website. This is particularly useful if you’ve already left the car park and realised you haven’t paid or if you prefer online transactions for convenience. But you need to make the payment within 24h hours in order to avoid getting a PCN.

NCP cameras record your vehicle registration as you exit the car park, so even though they don’t have your personal details, they possess information about your vehicle.

How Can I Tell If My NCP PCN Is A Fraud?

Scams are common in today’s digital age. Hence, there is no exception for receiving fraudulent NCP PCNs.

Look for discrepancies in the details to identify a fake PCN, such as

Remember, NCP never issues initial Parking Charge Notices via email. You can simply get in touch with NCP directly for verification if you have doubts.

NCP Contact Detail

Having direct contact details for NCP can be invaluable in resolving any issues related to parking fines. It is important to be aware of how to reach out to NCP in order to make a payment, lodge an appeal, or seek clarification. Their official website and customer service contact details are your go-to resources.

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Key points

• Nature of NCP PCN: It is a notice for violating parking terms. A PCN by NCP simply comes as an invoice but not as a legal fine.
• In general, the context of the PCN includes the following: the date, time, and location of the violation, along with detailed instructions for payment or appeal.
• A PCN issued by NCP is more like an invoice issued by a private company. Hence, there is a comparable difference between these PCNs and government-issued fines.
• Significance of Legal Standing: A PCN’s legal force is different from traditional fines. It offers more flexibility in handling.
• Responding to a PCN: Choices include paying the notice or appealing against it.
• Payment Benefits: Early payment may result in discounts as high as 40% discount and quick resolution.
• Appeal Process: Involves presenting evidence and reasons why the PCN might be unjust.
• Consequences of Ignoring a PCN: This can lead to reminder notices, added fees, involvement of debt collectors, and potential legal action.
• Escalating an Appeal: There is an option for an independent review through services like Parking On Private Land Appeals (POPLA) if an initial appeal is rejected.
• Understanding NCP Parking Fines: It’s crucial to understand how these fines are structured, including their costs and variations.