If you’re a resident or business owner in the eThekwini Municipality and have accumulated debt by 31 January 2025, you are eligible to benefit from the city’s Special Debt Relief Programme. This is an excellent opportunity for those struggling with municipal debt to ease their financial burden, with the chance to reduce the total amount owed.
What is the Debt Relief Programme?
The Special Debt Relief Programme is designed to assist both residential and business customers who have outstanding debt with the City. If you are eligible, you can reduce your debt by up to 50% by paying just half of the total amount due. This offer is part of the City’s effort to help citizens and businesses recover financially while also ensuring the sustainability of municipal services.
This initiative is open to customers who have accumulated debt by 31 January 2025. If you fall into this category, you can apply for the debt relief programme at designated Sizakala Centres located across different regions of eThekwini.
Related: Why Is My Water Bill So High? Common Reasons and How to Fix It
Who Qualifies for the Debt Relief Programme?
Residential Customers: If you have accumulated debt for services like water, electricity, or refuse removal as of 31 January 2025, you qualify for this debt relief programme.
Business Customers: Businesses that have outstanding debt as of the same date are also eligible for the programme. Whether you’re a small business owner or manage a larger commercial entity, the programme offers a significant opportunity to reduce your outstanding balances.
Water Loss Claims: If you have previously claimed for water loss but the full amount was not reimbursed, you can also qualify for debt relief under this programme.
How Does It Work?
To take advantage of this offer, all you need to do is pay 50% of your debt upfront. Once this payment is made, the City will write off the remaining 50% of your debt. However, it is important to note that any debts accumulated after 31 January 2025 will not be eligible for this benefit. You must pay the full amount or set up a payment arrangement if you wish to clear those debts.
This is a significant opportunity for debt relief, especially for those who have been struggling to clear their municipal debt. The City of eThekwini is making it easier for residents and businesses to catch up on overdue accounts without the fear of facing penalties or additional interest.
What If You Can’t Pay 50% Upfront?
If you’re unable to pay 50% of your debt upfront, don’t worry. You can still qualify for a payment plan to settle your debt. The City allows a payment plan for debts accrued after January 2025, as long as the payment period does not exceed six months.
If this option is suitable for you, be sure to visit your nearest Sizakala Centre to get more information and make the necessary arrangements. A payment plan will help you manage your finances and ensure you don’t fall further behind on payments.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
To apply for the Debt Relief Programme, you will need to bring the following documents:
Your South African ID
Your account number
These documents are essential for verifying your identity and account details, making the application process smoother.
Where to Apply?
You can visit Sizakala Centres across the municipality to apply for the programme. The City has several Sizakala Centres located in different regions for your convenience:
North Region:
Tongaat Sizakala
Verulam Sizakala
Phoenix Revenue Office
Midway Crossing
KwaMashu E Section
Central Region:
Florence Mkhize Building
Western Region:
Hillcrest Sizakala
Pinetown Sizakala
South Western Region:
Chatsworth
Shallcross
South Region:
Craigieburn Sizakala
Winkelspruit Sizakala
Mega City Sizakala
KwaMnyandu Mall Sizakala
Simply visit any of the Sizakala Centres in your area to submit your application and learn more about how you can qualify.
Important Dates to Remember
The Debt Relief Programme will close on 30 June 2025. Be sure to submit your application before this deadline to take advantage of the debt reduction offer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to clear up your outstanding debt.
Final Words
The Special Debt Relief Programme is a rare opportunity that residents and businesses in the eThekwini Municipality should not ignore. With the option to reduce your debt by 50%, you can ease your financial burden and start fresh. Remember, to qualify, you must have accumulated debt as of 31 January 2025. You also need to ensure that you visit a Sizakala Centre with the correct documents in hand to get started.
Take action now and start clearing your debts with ease!
