CheckFree Expands MarketReach

ATLANTA - (01/09/06) – Electronic billing giantCheckFree Corp. said last week it has obtained access to millionsof new consumer accounts with the acquisition of PhoneCharge Inc.,an Ansonia, Ct., telephone and Internet-based bill payment service.PhoneCharge provides phone payment services for utilities,telecommunication and cable companies. The acquisition will allowbillers to accept last-minute or same-day payments, helping theircustomers avoid late fees and service interruptions, according toCheckFree. Customers also will be able to use electronic checks,debit and credit cards to pay their bills.The acquisition meansCheckFree now supports all types of payment methods, includingonline, walk-in, telephone and electronic lockbox. CheckFree paid$100 million for the acquisition.