Payment procedures - deposits, billing:

Your employer should handle all utility bill payments for you, but if you elect to do it yourself your telephone bill must be paid at the Communications Bank that receives payment for your area. The system works like a savings deposit: you put money into your bank account and every month your phone bill is deducted until your balance is zero. If you neglect to pay your phone will be disconnected.

Gas and electricity payments fall due every month and will be collected directly from you at your door unless you have an arrangement with your employer.

Bank procedures are very similar to western practice but you will likely need assistance the first time you attempt to do anything there yourself, though some banks are used to foreign visitors. Bank of China has staff who speak English passably in the larger branches.

There are many kinds of banks, cooperatives and savings societies but only Bank of China can offer international remittance at present, though this may change. Automatic teller machines are common.

You can use debit cards (EFTPOS) in the larger stores. Credit Cards are very rare but are available. You may be able to use your existing credit card. Payment can also be made by bank draft or transfer.

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