Effingham County Circuit Clerk Announces On-Site Credit Card Payment Option

Individuals who wish to pay fines, child support and civil filing fees using a debit or credit card on-site at the Effingham County Circuit Clerk's office can now do so.

Previously, the office only accepted credit or debit card payments online or by phone in addition to cash, money orders or certified checks.  The office is located on the first floor of the Effingham County Government Center on Jefferson Avenue.

"It's a real convenience to those using the office, it offers payers the ability to use their debit or credit cards instead of having to go to an ATM to get cash or someplace else to get a money order or a certified check," said Effingham County Circuit Clerk John Niemerg.  "Many people don't like to carry cash and this new feature will help bring our county up to the standards the people expect."

Cardholders can make payments on their own behalf or on behalf of friends or family through GovPayNet, an Indianapolis-based company.  GovPayNet accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover.

Cardholders pay a small service fee, depending upon the amount of the payment, to GovPayNet at the time of their transaction.  There are no charges to Effingham County for participation in the GovPayNet service.  Individuals can still make payments 24 hours a day, seven days a week online at www.govpaynow.com or by phone at 1-888-604-7888.  Those who pay online or by phone need the four-digit pay location code, which can be obtained by visiting the Circuit Clerk's website http://www.co.effingham.il.us/circuitclerk.html or by phoning the Circuit Clerk's office at 342-4065.