From 22 April, until 31 May, the City of Johannesburg is rolling out a relief measure for financially strained households. Under this plan, residents can settle only 10% of their total municipal debt when arranging payments, marking a significant reduction from previous requirements.
Kgamanyane Maphologela, Director of Customer Communications at the City’s Group Finance Department, emphasises that this discount is open to all residential customers grappling with their municipal bills.
30% downpayment requirement waived for payment arrangements
Previously, a 30% downpayment was mandatory for payment arrangements. This condition has now been waived.
“The City recognises the significant financial burdens facing many households. This initiative is one of our many efforts to support our customers and demonstrate our commitment to being a compassionate municipality. We are dedicated to assisting residents in managing their rates and utility accounts effectively,” explains Maphologela.
To illustrate the impact, Maphologela offers an example: a resident with a R100 000 debt for municipal services now only needs to pay a R10 000 deposit and arrange further payments without additional hurdles.
Maphologela urges eligible customers to make use of this opportunity by visiting their nearest Customer Service Centre. Any Centre conveniently located across the City of Johannesburg’s seven regions. Necessary documentation includes an ID copy of the account holder and, if applicable, a power of attorney for those unable to apply personally.
City of Johannesburg offers support for property owners facing payment challenges
Property owners facing challenges in servicing their accounts are advised to approach the City of Johannesburg promptly to avoid disconnection. By arranging payments and acknowledging their debt, residents can navigate through financial difficulties with support from the municipality.
The City of Johannesburg recently warned residential property owners and businesses that they will blacklist those who haven’t paid their rates to recover debts totaling up to R52 billion.
City of Johannesburg plans to report defaulting payers to credit bureaus. Also, it urge residents to arrange payment plans with the municipality. Especially those affected by economic hardships like job loss.
