How to successfully negotiate payment arrangements with the municipality

COVID-19 left many families in financial turmoil - and then came along a rise in the price of food and a hike in the petrol price...

When does it end? 

READ MORE: eThekwini officials to meet over demolition of China Emporium

The system eThekwini Municipality implemented from 1 February will lift the burden on some of their residents. 

They are allowing residents indebted to the municipality to share submitting documents for a customer affordability assessment to be conducted. 

They reported that it is now mandatory for it to undertake an affordability assessment for customers in debt who want to enter into a payment arrangement with the municipality.

WATCH: eThekwini Municipal worker drives through Galleria Mall

How amazing?!

“The city will require proof of income and expenditure to consider the affordability of the consumer to pay their instalments,” Head of Revenue Lihle Ndzelu said.

She continued that this is in compliance with Sections 57 and 58 of the Magistrate’s Court Act 32 of 1944.

You will be required to either fill out a financial affordability form or a financial affordability affidavit.

READ MORE: eThekwini officials warn of spike in rabies cases

This financial affordability form will be filled by a customer who has proof of income, while the financial affordability affidavit is for those who do not possess proof of income.

So supporting documents are extremely important...

These include certified copies of a customer’s ID and payslip.

READ MORE: Kaunda returns as eThekwini mayor

“The payslips, if it is a joint household income, and certified copies of ID’s of all contributors must be provided. A three-month bank statement, if the applicant is self-employed, as well as a letter of executorship/letter of authority of the occupier of the property if no executor is appointed is also required.

“For juristic persons, the audited annual financial statement and the company signature authorisation letter is required,” said the municipality.

What a brilliant system, truly!

Main Image Courtesy: Supplied