Government Reduces Bill Processing Time in PAOs from 5 Days to 3 Days

In a move aimed at improving efficiency in government financial operations, the Office of the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, has reduced the time standard for processing bills by Pay and Accounts Offices (PAOs).

According to an Office Memorandum issued on June 12, 2026, bills submitted for payment will now be processed within three working days of receipt, instead of the earlier limit of five working days prescribed under the Civil Accounts Manual, 2024.

The revision comes in view of the implementation of the e-Bill system across various PAOs and Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) in Ministries and Departments. The government noted that digitisation of bill processing has enabled faster scrutiny and settlement of payment claims.

The order states that payments may be made through Payment Advice, cheque, or any other mode prescribed by the Government from time to time. Concurrent post-checks of bills passed by PAOs will continue to be carried out by the concerned Principal Chief Controller of Accounts (Pr.CCA), Chief Controller of Accounts (CCA), or Controller of Accounts (CA).

To facilitate this process, the CGA has already developed an Internal Audit Online System (IAOS) module for conducting concurrent post-checks. Ministries and Departments have been advised to utilise the system for audit purposes.

The CGA has directed all Heads of Accounting Organisations, including Pr.CCAs, CCAs and CAs, to inform stakeholders about the revised timelines and personally monitor compliance with the instructions.

The decision is expected to speed up payment processing and improve overall efficiency in government financial administration.

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