Joburg residents have been assured by the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) that municipal payments are reflecting normally, despite “incorrect” claims circulating on social media.
The CoJ insists that the reports are misleading, and has assured the public that payments made through official City channels are processing normally and continue to reflect on municipal statements.
Recent online messages have also suggested that residents are being billed incorrectly.
“The City also notes allegations that customers with up-to-date accounts may be disconnected due to these issues,” the CoJ added.
“This is not the case. Customers whose accounts are in good standing are not subjected to credit control disconnections, in line with the City’s Credit Control Policy.”
More than 1.5 million accounts affected
According to reports, the CoJ’s two central billing systems have been offline. Customer services centres are also said to have stopped accepting payments on 2 February.
It is understood that all municipal payments made since 19 January are not reflecting on the City’s systems or its self-service e-Joburg portal.
Furthermore, the portal allegedly shows zero payments on any statements for the past two years, and no payments at all under any account’s payment history.
Messages are causing ‘unnecessary concern’
However, the CoJ has rubbished these claims and has urged residents to be cautious about information shared online.
CoJ officials warn that unverified reports can create unnecessary panic and confusion.
“Our Customer Service Centres also remain operational and continue to accept payments as usual,” the CoJ confirmed.
“These centres remain a trusted option for residents who prefer in-person services.”
Johannesburg residents have been encouraged to rely on official City communication channels for the most accurate updates.
How to make municipal payments
Customers are reminded to make their municipal payments through the following approved channels:
- EasyPay (Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, and other retailers)
- Debit orders
- Direct bank deposits
- ATMs
- Internet and cellphone banking
- SA Post Office
- e-Joburg Portal
- City of Johannesburg Customer Service Centres
Queries may also be directed to Joburg Connect at 0860 562 874.
