| March
6 , 2000 Auto-Pay helps Autopac customers "spread their dough" more evenly Lower rates, new payment options mean it just got easier to make your automobile insurance payments in Manitoba. Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is introducing its new Auto-Pay program this week that provides Autopac customers with more flexible payment options that include monthly financing and credit card payments. Brokers have started loading new software that will make it possible for customers to pay their Autopac in a host of new ways. Manitoba motorists will now be able to pay their annual insurance bill in 12 monthly installments through pre-authorized withdrawal from a Canadian bank account or by using plastic. VISA or MasterCard credit cards are being accepted for monthly, annual or quarterly payments as an alternative to cash, money order, cheque or debit card. Customers already on MPI's quarterly payment plan can change to the new monthly plan right away. The program will be fully in place throughout Manitoba tomorrow. "Statistics Canada's latest report shows that the average household had a monthly income of $4,762," said Marilyn McLaren, MPI Vice President of Corporate Insurance Operations. "However, that same family had an average monthly expenditure of $4,280. "This tells us that while Manitobans pay among the lowest automobile insurance rates in Canada, making a lump sum payment of several hundred dollars can put a strain on many family budgets. These new Auto-Pay options will reduce the pressure of larger annual or quarterly payments and make it easier for people to manage the family budget with 12 equal monthly payments." In addition, starting March 1, 2000, most Manitobans began to see the added benefit of reduced Autopac rates. Seven out of 10 passenger vehicle owners in Manitoba will pay less for their automobile insurance next year. "This will make a difference for people who own passenger vehicles," said McLaren. "Manitobans will be paying $21 million less in auto insurance. And that will open up new spending opportunities to Manitoba families."
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