/ 17 September 2003

Telkom introduces online payments

South African telecommunications utility Telkom (TKG) has introduced an e-billing service for residential and small business customers. This follows the successful introduction of e-billing last year for corporate and large business customers, Telkom said in a statement on Tuesday.

The initiative marks a departure from the traditional paper-driven consumer bill, Telkom said.

Telkom managing executive for consumer markets, Thami Magazi, says that the Telkom Online Bill is a free offering aimed at residential and small business customers with less than 10 accounts.

“Online Bill allows our customers control and better management of their account as well as control over the timing and payment. Transactions will take place in a secure and reliable environment, and customers have the convenience of viewing their communications bill at any time without any of the delays associated with the traditional process,” he said.

Customers will receive an automatic email notification when monthly accounts are available. Online Bill offers extensive billing information and bills are accessible for review 24 hours a day.

Secure payment is offered via the Online Bill website by using a valid credit card, or through the Internet banking process offered by the customer’s own bank. – I-Net Bridge