The City of Johannesburg urges qualifying residents and municipal account holders to apply for Debt Relief Programme Phase 4 before the deadline on 31 October 2026. With fewer than three weeks remaining, customers are encouraged to submit their applications without delay to avoid the anticipated last-minute rush at customer service centres and online.

Launched on 1 November 2025 following Council approval, the programme aims to help qualifying customers manage historical municipal debt, rehabilitate their accounts and promote responsible payment behaviour.

By the end of July 2026, the City had received 18,043 applications, representing approximately R2.052 billion in outstanding municipal debt.

The Communications and Stakeholder Management Director in Group Finance, Kgamanyane Maphologela, urged customers not to miss the closing date. “This programme offers an opportunity to address historical municipal debt and restore accounts to good standing.

“Submit complete applications with all required supporting documents well before the deadline to allow sufficient time for assessment," said Maphologela.

Important conditions

• Approval is not guaranteed.
• The extent of relief depends on the customer category and applicable conditions.
• Customers must continue paying their monthly municipal accounts as required.
• Submit the prescribed application form and all supporting documents.
• Avoid intermediaries promising guaranteed approval in exchange for payment.

 
How to apply

Qualifying customers can apply through the following channels:

1. Revenue Customer Service Centres: Visit an official City centre for assistance with the application and supporting documents.
2. Online: Visit www.joburg.org.za and select the Debt Relief Programme link or icon.

Maphologela said the programme supports customers in addressing historical debt while strengthening the City's revenue sustainability and ability to deliver essential services.

“The closing date is 31 October 2026. We urge residents not to leave their applications until the last moment. Act now and submit your application through the official channels before the deadline," he concluded.

12/10/2026

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