EQC encouraging people to bank cheques

The Earthquake Commission’s (EQC) acting chief executive, Bryan Dunne, is encouraging people to bank their EQC cheques as soon as possible.

As of 1 July more than 630 EQC cheques amounting to $1.9 million had not been presented to banks.

Bryan Dunne says there may be several reasons for this.

“Some people are querying their assessment and they believe that by cashing the cheque they have accepted the decision made by EQC. This is not the case,” he said.

“If anyone feels our assessment is not correct they can be reassured that they can continue to talk with EQC to resolve the situation. Banking the cheque will not affect the final settlement amount and it is particularly important that people have the money, at what may be a difficult time for them.”

“Another reason why this may have happened is because the extent of the damage in Christchurch means there may be post boxes not being cleared if people have left their homes. We also understand people may have lost cheques, which is understandable under the circumstances, but they need to advise us of this,” said Mr Dunne.

“If people have lost their cheque or if it is more than six months old, they can call our free phone number 0800 830 039 and we will issue a new cheque, subject to confirmation of identity,” he said.

Claimants can also email unpresentedchq@eqc.govt.nz. This phone number and email address is only for cheques. Claimants should still use the 0800 DAMAGE, 0800 326 243 number for any questions around their EQC claim.

Meanwhile EQC has received more than 377,000 claims since the first earthquake last September, including more than 31,000 from the aftershock on 13 June. EQC has paid out more than $1.1 billion in payments amounting to more than $3 million per day since September 4.

EQC is one of a number of organisations working with the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) on rebuilding greater Christchurch and its surrounds, and supporting the welfare of its residents. For more information visit www.cera.govt.nz

ENDS

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