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Payment responsibilities

A payment has more than one role.

The institution issuing a bill, the channel receiving a payment and the service approving an application have different jobs.

1. The institution and the amount due

For a government service, start with the issuing institution’s invoice or assessment. It identifies the service or obligation and the amount due. Questions about the assessment, eligibility or the approval of an application should be directed to that institution.

2. The payment channel

Follow the payment options shown for your invoice. Government eServices FAQs list several payment methods, including authorised Capital Pay agents. An available payment method is a route for settling an invoice; the invoice still needs to be linked to the correct payer and service.

3. The record

Keep the payment confirmation and the official receipt. A transaction reference helps locate a payment. The relevant institution’s acknowledgement establishes whether it has been matched to the obligation you intended to settle.

4. The service decision

Payment confirmation and service approval should be checked separately. For example, a payment reference alone should not be treated as an approved application or a completed permit.

Where fees fit

Read the amount due, any separate payment charge and the final total as individual items. Different services can have different arrangements. A percentage quoted for one contract or fee does not establish the charge on another payment.

Read the guide to fees and totals →

Payment guidance, in plain English.

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