The federal government is holding more than $2.16 billion in uncashed cheques across 3.9 million payments, highlighting inefficiencies in paper-based disbursements. The figures, revealed through a parliamentary inquiry, reflect systemic challenges including outdated addresses and reliance on physical delivery.
Experts say digital methods such as direct deposit and e-transfers offer faster, more reliable alternatives. Calgary-based Digital Commerce Payments also points to prepaid cards as a solution for reaching underserved populations. With real-time payment systems still pending, the backlog underscores the need to modernize public sector payments to reduce costs and improve delivery outcomes.
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