Citi Australia confirmed yesterday that it will stop issuing cheque books next month as customers flock to digital ways of paying.

Citi last week wrote to customers with global currency accounts notifying them of the move to bin cheque books, but a spokesperson confirmed that that the change would apply to all retail accountholders.

“Today Citi customers have a number of faster and more secure ways to pay than via cheques,” the spokesperson said.

“As a result of this evolution, Citi will cease to issue new cheque books for its consumer transaction accounts after April 24.

“Customers can make payments into accounts through Citi’s digital and telephone support channels; however, if a cheque is required, bank cheques can be issued on request.” 

The spokesperson said the change would not impact cheque deposits into Citi accounts.

Customers will be able to deposit cheques through Australia Post, NAB branches or by posting to Citi.

The abolition of cheque accounts at Citi follows the decision by National Australia Bank in January to discontinue processing cheques drawn on credit union accounts.