Private Sector Cheques will be discontinued as of 31st December, 2023, as per the direction of the Bank of Papua New Guinea on the 4th of April.
This came after a review by the National Payment Council (NPC) which determined that despite quicker clearance times, cheques are still considered higher risk for fraudulent use, and the longer processing times are an inconvenience when a cheque is dishonoured.
The government has shifted toward electronic payment options with the implementation of the National Payment Strategy Developments which aims to foster greater financial inclusion through safe convenient payment options.
In compliance with this announcement, we are encouraging our customers who are in possession of cheque books to start transitioning to the various digital payment options we have available:
Why are Cheques being phased out?
The Bank of Papua New Guinea together with Commercial Banks announced on the 4 April 2023, the discontinuance of Private Sector Cheques by the 31st of December 2023.
This is to allow for more secure, faster and convenient methods of money transfer via digital and electronic payment methods.
This is the move worldwide and is being encouraged in PNG.
What will happen to my cheque books?
Your cheque book will eventually not be accepted at Banks and other financial institutions with this new direction to cease private cheques. There are safer, convenient and faster methods of digital and electronic payment methods which are available to you to utilise.
It would be in your interest to enquire and register on these payment methods.
Please note, you may be asked to surrender your cheque books to Kina Bank for destruction.
What will happen to cheques I receive after 31st December 2023?
Cheques may no longer be accepted or processed by Kina Banks and other financial institutions, after this date, rendering them useless. It is advisable to utilise alternative available payment methods before this date to avoid any disruptions to your business.
What if my account requires two or more signatories?
You should consult with your bank or financial institution about alternative payment methods that provide the necessary security and authorization measures. Many digital payment solutions, such as online banking and electronic funds transfer, can be set up to require multiple approvals before a transaction is processed.
What do I do with my cheques in the mean time?
You may continue to use your cheques until they are no longer accepted or processed by banks. However, it is advisable to start the move to alternative payment methods as soon as possible to ensure a smooth changeover.
What will happen to my cheque books and the extra cheque leaves by 01/01/2024?
Your cheque book and extra cheque leaves will not be accepted at Banks and other financial institutions.
What are the alternatives available to me in place of my cheque book?
There are several alternatives available in place of your cheque book, such as online banking, electronic funds transfer (EFT), wire transfers, payment apps, and digital wallets. These methods offer various levels of convenience, speed, and security depending on your needs and preferences.
Business
- Corporate Online Banking
- EFTPOS- POS integration
- Biller Payments
- Payment Portal
Personal and Sole Proprietor
- Personal Online Banking
- Venture Cards
- Visa Debit Card
- WhatsApp Banking
- Kina Konnect
Small Medium Enterprise
- Personal Online Banking or Corporate Online Banking
- Visa Debit Card
- WhatsApp Banking
- Kina Konnect
- Venture Cards
How will this affect my customers who pay by Cheque?
Your customers who pay by cheque will also need to change to alternative payment methods. You can support them by providing information on the available options and encouraging them to switch to digital and electronic payments for a more efficient faster and secure transaction experience.
Who can I speak to at Kina to assist me with my transition?
To seek assistance with your transition from a cheque book to other alternative payment methods, you can call into any Kina Branch or contact kina@kinabank.com.pg. They will be able to guide you through the available options and help you choose the most appropriate solution that meets your needs and requirements.
When can I change to digital/electronic banking in place of using cheques?
You can start today. After 31 December 2023, cheques may no longer be accepted or processed by Kina Banks and other financial institutions. If you make the change before the 31 December 2023, you can avoid any disruption to your financial transactions.
Will my online transactions be secure?
Kina Bank implements industry recognized and state-of-the-art technologies, standards, security protocols, and information security guidelines to protect you and your financial information from any online threats. To safeguard yourself, your device and your sensitive banking information from scam, fraud and other malicious attacks, here are tips to keep yourself safe (refer attached T&A content).
For any queries and additional information, please contact us via email or by phone.
Or visit your nearest Kina Bank Branch to speak to our Customer Advocates today.