City reminds residents to make payment arrangements, apply for support

20 June 2023

The City of Cape Town urges residents to approach us for support if they are struggling to make ends meet. Help is available for all municipal account holders, including relief for City tenants, indigent relief and assistance in the form of no-interest payment arrangements. The City has achieved a 97,24% annual collection ratio and we thank all residents for making payments, applying for assistance and for entering into arrangements with us.

‘The City’s payment ratio of above 97% is an indicator that most residents are able to make payment towards their municipal accounts, and that they trust the City to manage these funds responsibly. The revenue from rates and services is used for the provision of services in our city. However, we are sympathetic to residents who are struggling, and we are doing all we can to assist those who need it.

‘It is often the case that struggling residents make ad hoc payments, or pay less than the amount owed to the City, which results in them falling into arrears. This can be avoided. Residents should approach us for guidance on the support they may qualify for. By doing so they will avoid incurring debt management and legal action. Debt management actions are in place to protect the municipality’s sustainability and stability so that we can continue to offer top quality services. The City’s debt management process is carefully managed, balancing the need to manage funds responsibly with providing support to those who need it.

‘In the current 2022/23 Financial Year we assisted 217 964 residents with indigent and pensioner support. Reach out to us because we are here to help you,’ said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, Councillor Siseko Mbandezi.

See if you qualify for Indigent Support:

• Approach your nearest municipal customer office

• Contact your ward councillor

• Visit your subcouncil office

• Email: Indigent.Relief@capetown.gov.za

For more information on applying for indigent support: https://www.capetown.gov.za/Media-and-news/How to apply for indigent support

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office