George Municipality expands on Indigent Support
George Municipality remains committed to ensuring equitable access to essential services. As part of this commitment, the Indigent Support Programme has been expanded to provide relief to more households in need. From 1 July 2025, more residents will qualify for support to reduce their water, electricity, refuse removal, and property rates bills.
Previously, only households earning up to R5 460 per month could receive support.
The income limit for full support (Level 1) has increased to R6 000. A new Level 2 category has also been introduced for households earning between R6 001 and R9 000. These Level 2 households will receive a 50% subsidy on refuse removal, sewerage, and property rates for properties valued under R230 000.
Further amendments include a new sliding scale for credit control purposes. Instead of a fixed 50% deduction, overdue payments will now be recovered through pre-paid electricity purchases on a sliding scale: 55% for 30 days overdue, 65% for 60 days, and 75% for 90 days or more. Pre-paid electricity meters will only be blocked in special cases, as required by law, thus reducing financial strain on vulnerable households.
Executive Mayor Von Brandis in tabling the 2025/26 Draft Budget at a Council meeting on 27 March 2025 said: “We have listened to our residents and taken action. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to social equity while ensuring the long-term sustainability of municipal services.”
MMC for Financial and Strategic Services, Cllr Iona Kritzinger encourages residents to apply for either Level 1 or 2 Indigent support online at the main municipal building or at the Municipal area offices. Officials will be available to help those who need assistance.
Cllr Kritzinger added, “The municipality is committed to helping residents who are financially vulnerable, and these changes will make it easier for low-income families to afford essential services. However, I want to stress that these changes will only take effect from 1 July 2025, and that qualifying for support is not automatic. Each application will be carefully assessed by the Credit Control Steering Committee to ensure fairness and sustainability. It is also important that residents keep their current municipal account payments up to date – only those who meet the criteria and demonstrate commitment to maintaining their accounts will be considered for assistance.”
Details on the relevant criteria and how to apply can be found at https://tinyurl.com/y7r39jut
