We provide one stop service to apply Astro and Broadband for you.
You can avoid driving and queuing at the sales counter. We are the dealer that can help you to handle your application from the beginning to the end.

We do not charge you when you apply from us. There is no credit card information required to apply here. Charges are the same as you apply from the sales counter.

First, you can apply online, we will get back to you immediately during business hour. WhatsApp/Email/Fax us your Photocopy of IC (for malaysian) / Passport (for foreigners). When we receive all the information, we will proceed with your application immediately.

Once we receive your application with complete information, we will process your application immediately during business hour. The contractor from the service provider will then contact you for installation appointment once your application is approved.

Enjoy greater savings and hassle-free bill payment in one single bill for both Astro and Broadband. You get to enjoy Astro and Broadband at discounted price every month over the contract period of 24 months.

Astro offers multiple TV packs including Entertainment, Sports, Movies and Kids options. You can choose a pack that matches your viewing preferences and add optional streaming apps where available.

Yes, you may subscribe to Astro TV packs without bundling broadband. However, bundling Astro TV with Fibre Broadband may provide better monthly savings and convenience with a single bill.

For small households with light streaming and browsing, 100Mbps is usually sufficient. Larger families, gamers or heavy streamers may benefit from 500Mbps or 1Gbps plans for smoother performance across multiple devices.

Most Astro TV and Fibre broadband plans come with a 24-month contract. Early termination charges may apply if cancellation is made before the contract ends.

Yes, you may upgrade your TV pack or broadband speed at any time, subject to eligibility and coverage. A new contract period may apply depending on the upgrade.

Your monthly bill will be issued directly by Astro. You may receive it via email or access it through your Astro account. Bundled customers will receive a single combined bill for TV and broadband services.

Payment methods may include online banking, auto debit, credit card or other approved payment channels provided by Astro. Our team can guide you during the registration process.

If you experience any service interruption, you may contact Astro customer support for technical assistance. In many cases, issues can be resolved remotely or a technician will be arranged if necessary.

Yes, relocation is subject to service availability at your new address. Relocation charges and contract adjustments may apply depending on your plan.

No, you do not need a credit card to submit your application. Payment setup will be arranged directly with Astro after your service is approved.

Selected Astro TV packs allow optional add-ons such as streaming services depending on current promotions and availability. Additional monthly charges may apply.

Yes, a WiFi router is typically provided during fibre installation. The router model may vary depending on the selected broadband speed plan.

Yes, we will check the service coverage at your address before proceeding with your application to ensure broadband is available at your location.

For Malaysians, please provide a copy of your MyKad. For foreigners, provide a copy of your passport when submitting your broadband application.

After your application is approved, the service provider typically contacts you within 2 to 7 working days to arrange the broadband installation appointment.

Most Astro Broadband plans come with a 24-month contract starting from your installation date. If you relocate, a new 24-month contract may apply at your new address.

Yes, you can relocate your broadband service, subject to service availability at the new address. Your contract may reset for another 24 months from the new installation date.

Yes, you may request to relocate broadband devices within your home. Non-standard installation charges may apply and are payable to the installer directly after assessment.

Yes, you can switch to Astro Broadband. To avoid service interruption, it is recommended to activate the new service before terminating your current broadband contract.

Standard installations may be free during promotions, but non-standard installations (e.g., device relocation or complex wiring) may incur extra charges payable directly to the installer.

Of course! Please ensure your account is active when requesting for a move.

It will take around 10 to 15 minutes before you are able to view your purchase.

• With numerous OTT entrants, consumers are suffering from subscription fatigue. In fact, they are looking for a one stop shop platform where OTT services are integrated in one place.

• Astro offers flexibility and convenience with new packs where customers can get the convenience of accessing a variety of content via Ultra Box as the single remote-control solution.  

• In addition, there will be cost savings for Astro customers to purchase both Netflix and Astro together. Even better deals available if customers also subscribe to broadband for a better-connected experience.

STEP 1    

Switch OFF the power of your Ultra / Ulti box and make sure that the adapter's power light is off.

STEP 2    

Switch ON the power of your Ultra / Ulti box and make sure that the adapter's power light is on.

‍

STEP 3  

Put the box on standby mode.

STEP 4

Press and hold the Home button on the box.

STEP 5    

Wait until "boot" appear on the front panel and released.

STEP 6

When “boot” appears, press “Standby”,  “Left “, “Up” continuously until Auto Update appear on box screen and Software Update progress on TV.

‍

‍

STEP 1    

Switch OFF the power of your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is off.

‍

STEP 2

Switch ON the power of your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is on.

STEP 3

Press Standby, Ch+, Standby keys on the box simultaneously when the "boot" message appears on the box front  panel.

The Software Update progress screen will appears.    

The update will take 10 - 15 minutes to complete. Please be patience.

STEP 1  

Switch OFF the power of your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is off.

STEP 2    

Switch ON the power of your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is on.

STEP 3

Press the standby button repeatedly after switch on the power.

STEP 4

Press "OK".

STEP 5    

The Software Update progress screen will appears.

The update will take 10 - 15 minutes to complete.

Please be patience.

For Platinum Pack and Multiroom Smart TV customers, Astro GO+ will be automatically added to your subscription.

The Kids Friendly Profile is an enhancement to the Kids User Profile feature with the following major improvements:

Kid-Friendly Channels, On Demand content & TV Guide: Only Kid-friendly channels and On-Demand content can be viewed in the Kids Profile. Other channels and content are not viewable. The same applies to the Kids TV Guide.
1. PIN control for the Kids Profile:  When switching from a Kids Profile to an adult profile (i.e.: Father or Mother), a PIN entry will be required.
2. Limited Kids Profile Content Search: Only Kids age-appropriate content can be searched and displayed within the Kids Profile.
3. Kids Profile Based Recordings: Kids Profiles will have their own personalised age-appropriate recordings without any overlap with other user profiles. This feature will be available from 17th August onwards.

These enhancements are available across the Astro GO app, Ultra/Ulti Box, and Multiroom Box/Smart TV app.

Click here to find out more on this new feature and how to use it!

Yes, starting 9 November 2021, these new packs will be Astro's default offering.

You may call Astro's Contact Centre at 03-9543 3838 or wait for an Astro representative to be in contact with you within 2 working days to assist you with your order.

When using our One Time Payment (OTP) method, you may register more than one credit card per account. However, a single card account can only be used for a maximum of three accounts for OTP transactions.

When using our auto-debit facility, you can only register one card with Astro. Any subsequent card registrations will override the current one.

No. However, if you cancel your Astro Pay TV services but resubscribe at a later date, your duration (year) with us will reset to zero and restart according to your new activation date. Your Astro Rewards tier will reset to Magenta.

STEP 1    

On your remote, press the ... button and the Channel Guide page will be displayed on your screen.

STEP 2    

Select the channel you would like to remove as favourite and press "OK".

STEP 3  

Select "Remove from Favourite" and press "OK".

STEP 4    

You are successfully removed the channel from favourite list when this screen appears.

STEP 1
On your remote, press the Home button and the Home Page will be displayed on your screen.



STEP 2
Navigate to Profile.



STEP 3
The Profile Selection Screen will be displayed.



STEP 4
Navigate to Edit Profile.



STEP 5
Choose a profile to edit.



STEP 6
Navigate to Delete Profile.



STEP 7
Click Confirm to delete your profile.



STEP 8
The deleted profile will be removed from the Profile Selection Screen.

Yes, customers will be charged 8% Service Tax for packages purchased after 29th February due to the implementation of the 8% Service Tax starting 1st March 2024.
 

STEP 1    

On your remote, press the HOME button and the home menu will be displayed on top of your screen.

STEP 2    

Navigate to Guide.

STEP 3  

Select the channel you would  like to add to favourite list and press "OK".

STEP 4  

Select "Add to Favourites" and press "OK".

STEP 5

You are successfully added the channel to favourite list when this screen appears.

STEP 6

Your selected channel will have a heart tagging after added as favourite.

If you did not receive the recovery email or verification code, please make sure that:

1. You are inserting the correct email or mobile number you used to register for your Astro ID.
2. Check your junk mailbox or spam folder.  

To find out which email or phone number you have used to register your Astro ID, you may submit a feedback form. Kindly select feedback type "I have an enquiry/issue with Apps" choose "Astro GO" 
 

We will get in touch with you within 48 hours to solve your enquirie

As a rule of thumb, this issue might happen when the devices are not equipped with minimum requirement above that supports the subscribed internet speeds:

• WiFi technology
• Network Interface Card (NIC)

As mentioned above however, it is important to note that despite meeting the device minimum requirements, it is not a guarantee that devices connected over WiFi will be able to achieve maximum subscribed internet speeds due to the following:

1. Bad WiFi signal quality and coverage across the area due to:
   • Distance from the RGW/Mesh AP with connected device
   • Obstruction within the house (walls, metallic surfaces)
   • Interference with other household appliances
2. Congested bandwidth
   • If there are too many devices connected to the WiFi network, then the bandwidth might be overloaded with traffic hence, slowing down the speed
3.  Devices are connected using WiFi instead of wired using LAN.
   • It is important to note that wired connection offers better reliability and speed over WiFi.
   • WiFi is more prone to interference compared to a wired connection which causes lower speeds and dropped signal.
4. Router Positioning: Most people underestimate the importance of picking a good spot for a Wi-Fi router. Even a small shift in positioning could end up being the difference between day and night:
   • High vs. Low: Put the router as high up as possible to extend the broadcasting range of the radio waves. This also helps clear the router of possible interferences.
   • Concrete & Metals: Make sure your router isn’t blocked by any other objects, especially devices that are electronic. Also, avoid placing your router in your basement as this area is usually enclosed by a lot of concrete, which can be almost impossible for Wi-Fi signals to penetrate.
   • Distance to Router: The further away from your router you get, the weaker the Wi-Fi signal. Therefore, the best option is to place your router as close to your devices as possible, but this is only practical if you have one main area where you tend to use your devices. Otherwise, you should place your router near the center of your home. After all, Wi-Fi broadcasts in 360 degrees, so it doesn’t make sense to put it at one end of the house.
5. Usage
   • More likely, however, is that the people on your network such as friends, roommates, or family members are participating in bandwidth-heavy activities like gaming and streaming Ultrabox/Netflix.
   • Fortunately, if this is the case, you can prioritize your own network traffic by enabling Quality of Service in your router settings.
   • If the problem persists, please run a Ping Test/Traceroute Test and attach the picture or screenshot of both test results in the Feedback Form below, in order for us to provide further assistances. Please make sure to attach the required screenshot(s) in ONE file (i.e. Microsoft Word document, PDF, Image file) before submitting the form.

Note:
Astro and its service providers will not offer any guarantees for compatibility of the customer's equipment (e.g., Personal Computer, Notebook, printers) nor provide on site troubleshooting for WiFi service issues related to the customer's equipment.

In support of the environment, customers are encouraged to opt for bill statements delivered for free via email or SMS for better savings as the Paper Bill Charge will be revised from RM7.00 to RM10.00 per bill/month, starting 1st August 2022. The Paper Bill Charge will be waived for customers who opt for e-Billing as their preferred bill delivery method.

All Astro customers with Disney+ Hotstar bundle/Add-on will be moved to the Disney+ Hotstar Premium Plan, with no changes to their current subscription pricing starting 24 April 2024. The new Disney+ Hotstar Premium Plan includes 3 concurrent streams, 10 maximum device logins, maximum video quality up to 4K Ultra HD (compatible devices required), and streaming on phone, tablet, laptop and TV.

If you have questions about your Disney+ Hotstar plan, please contact Astro Customer Contact Centre at 03 9543 3838. Alternatively, please WhatsApp Astro at 03 9543 3838 and type DH Help for further assistance. 

No, the eKYC verification process must be done by the individual themselves, using their MyKad and selfie in real-time.

You will be notified 30 days before the expiry on the renewal of subscription and can opt out from auto renewal at least (2) days before the auto-renewal date. 

If you want to opt out of your auto-renewal for Disney+ Hotstar, please contact our Customer Contact Centre at 03 9543 3838 and speak to one of our customer service executives to change your package according to what suits you best at least two (2) days before the next auto-renewal date. Alternatively, please WhatsApp us at 03 9543 3838 and type "DH Help

For Astro Fibre subscription, should you choose to discontinue/terminate the Astro Fibre service before the expiry of the contract (24 months), you will be subjected to an early cancellation fee of RM100 x Remaining months of the contract period for your Broadband services.

All Astro Fibre devices provisioned (Fibre modem, WiFi router and Mesh) will need to be returned upon termination. Our team will schedule the collection of equipment after your Broadband services have been terminated.

If equipment is damaged, lost or cannot be retrieved, penalty fees will be applied (excluding Service Tax) accordingly.

RM500 for Fibre modem (Broadband Termination Unit)

RM200 for WiFi router (Residential Gateway)

RM200/unit for Mesh WiFi

Please make sure that:

• You are inserting the correct account holder's information while linking, ie: I/C number, passport number, Astro account number or Smart card number.
• You are linking to an Astro account (NJOI customers will not be able to log into Astro GO).
• Your Astro account is not currently linked to any other Astro ID. If your Astro account is currently linked to another Astro ID, you will see a red notice.

To find out which Astro ID is currently linked to your account, you may submit a feedback form. Kindly select feedback type "I have an enquiry/issue with Apps

Your access to Astro GO will depend on the subscription pack that you are subscribed to. Not all shows/channels will be available on Astro GO as this depends on contractual rights with specific guidelines on the entitlement of these shows/channels. We are continuously working hard to make more content available on Astro GO.

You may navigate around the menu on the side bar on Astro GO app, or top bar on the Astro GO web version to find shows available.

Menu Guide

• Home: Check out all the recommended content or watch your subscribed TV channels via the   Channel Guide at the bottom of your home screen. 
• Catch Up: Missed an episode of your favourite series? Fret not, Catch Up on the latest episode of your favourite shows on Astro GO. 
• Boxsets: Watch complete seasons and series from our On Demand library anytime anywhere. 
• Movies: Watch recent and popular movies on your devices! You can access a large catalogue of On Demand movies, according to your subscription. 
• Kids: Catch all the cartoons, animations and a variety of shows for kids of all ages. 
• Sports: Watch the biggest sporting shows LIVE on your mobile device, anytime anywhere. 
• Store: Other than your subscribed packages, you can also purchase and watch your favourite Pay-Per-View movies and other Astro exclusive content (not available on iOS devices).

STEP 1  

On your remote, press the HOME button and the home menu will be displayed on top of your screen.

STEP 2    

Navigate to Settings.

STEP 3  

Navigate to STB Diagnostics and press "OK".

STEP 4    

Select Network Diagnostics and press "OK".

STEP 5  

Details information of Network Diagnostics screen will be displayed.

Yes. You can make payment using your credit card via My Astro Portal:

- For One-time payment: All Master/Visa 3D secured debit/credit cards for one-time payment issued by banks in Malaysia

- For Auto-Debit: All Master/Visa/AMEX debit/credit cards issued by banks in Malaysia

STEP 1

‍

Try to change channels on your Astro  remote.

INDICATOR: LED blinking 3 times / NO LED blink

SOLUTION: Replace new battery

Proceed to Step 2.

‍

INDICATOR: LED blinking 1 time

Confirm it's not your Astro remote faulty, let's proceed to Step 3.

‍

STEP 2

If issue remain after the battery replacement, this might be due to a faulty Astro remote.

Try changing the channel manually directly from the box front panel (If any).

If it's working, you might need to  replace your Astro remote.

You may walk-in to our nearest Customer Service Center for the replacement.

STEP 3

You need to refresh the box setting by initiate manually from box front panel.    

Refer to Refresh Box setting Guide steps here.

My Astro app and web is currently available in English and Bahasa Malaysia only.

Your documents will be handled in compliance with standards set by PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act 2010) and will not be used for other means without your specific consent.

Astro introduces Liga Malaysia for all Astro customers to watch the Malaysian Football League’s Liga Malaysia competitions LIVE, comprising Perlawanan Sumbangsih (Piala Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah), Liga Super, Piala FA and Piala Malaysia live in HD on Astro Arena (CH801), Arena Bola channels (CH803 and CH804) and stream on Astro GO until further notice.

We encourage you to upgrade your Astro experience by switching to our new packs to enjoy more choices, value and flexibility. Starting 9 November 2021, you would need to be subscribed to the new packages to make any changes to your subscription.

Create your Astro ID anytime by following these simple steps: 

• Step 1: Fill in your details at astro.com.my/astroID
  
  

STEP 1
Check the internet connectivity by run the Test Connection.
Refer Run Test Connection.


STEP 2
Verify the average speedtest based on the Test Connection result.
a. Above 10Mbps - Proceed to STEP 5
b. Less then 10 Mbps - Proceed to STEP 3

Notes: Minimum 10 Mbps internet speed from box requires in order to get a stable connection.



STEP 3
Check the connection to the box either using Ethernet (LAN cable) or Wi-Fi.
a. If using Ethernet (LAN cable) - Connect to Live Agent for help.
b. If using Wi-Fi - Proceed to STEP 4



STEP 4
Check location of the decoder and router.
a. If nearby (within 1.5m) - Try connect to box from router using LAN cable.
b. If far (more than 1.5m) / No LAN cable - Proceed STEP 5



STEP 5
Reboot router, modem and decoder.
If issue persist, please try again after 30mins to 1 hour. Connect to live agent if persist after 30 mins to 1 hour.

To subscribe, WhatsApp "Smart TV' or call 03-9543 3838.

Astro customers on the previous packages (e.g. Family Pack, Starter Pack, Value Pack, Super Pack Lite, Super Pack or Super Pack Plus) will first have to sign up to our new packages on astro.com.my before they are able to sign up for Multiroom (Smart TV).

You can subscribe to Multiroom (Smart TV) here or via any of our sales channels.

Yes, existing Astro & Broadband customers within contract or out of contract can subscribe to Astro Fibre Bundle. The 24-month contract will be renewed.

However, your contract with Maxis/Allo needs to be terminated before signing up to this offer. An early cancellation fee applies if you are still within contract.

‍*Subject to Terms &Conditions of your contract

You may retain your watch history and settings of your existing Netflix account by using the same email of your Netflix account during the linking of your Netflix account with Astro.

No, the Mesh WiFi add-on with Astro Fibre is available as subscription service and will not be tied to any device contract.

Yes, Mesh WiFi add-on is available for both Astro Fibre Bundle and Astro Fibre subscription.

Please update your auto-debit payment details via My Astro Portal.

The speeds shown under “My Network Map” are the WiFi speeds of your connected devices based on factors such as signal strength, distance of devices from your router, obstructing objects etc. This function allows users to know the signal strengths achievable from every room in their house or any distance from their router, giving users accurate indication If additional mesh is needed or if the placement of their router requires adjustment.

However, the speeds shown under “My Devices” are the recent WiFi consumption of your connected devices, which allows you to monitor every user’s internet consumption in your household.

Astro Fibre is Astro’s own internet service that enables you to enjoy Astro content while staying connected with high-speed fibre broadband. Customers can enjoy substantial savings by choosing your desired broadband speed  to accompany your Astro TV packages. Customers can choose from two types of Astro Fibre offering:

1. Astro Fibre Bundle offers the best value proposition of 50Mbps to 800Mbps high-speed broadband bundled with Astro TV content packages including access to leading streaming services, creating a one-stop entertainment solution for its customers.
2. Astro Fibre is a standalone high-speed broadband service of 100Mbps to 800Mbps offering a powerful WiFi system leveraging the latest WiFi 6 router and a flexible mesh proposition.

This convenient option allows you to complete your registration without the need to provide hard copy documents physically to the sales agent. The identity verification process helps to secure your Account and protect it from unauthorised usage.

The warranty period will be 24 months.

Customers who subscribe to the Movies, Premium 1, Premium 3 or Platinum Pack will be able to access Disney+ Hotstar immediately and start streaming all their favourite Global, Regional and Malaysian hits upon activation. 

If you're trying to visit a website and it won't load, but others do, there could be a variety of causes. If the site itself is down, there's not much you can do but wait.

If you can load the site on other computers or devices (make sure you try different means of connecting to the internet), there may be an issue with your computer or network.

There are some quick fixes that will solve most problems, but you may have to get your hands a little dirty.
 

1. Try loading the site on a different device.
   • Try loading the website on your phone or on another computer. If the website loads on the other device, the problem lies with your computer.
   • If the website doesn't load on another device, the problem is either with the network
2. Restart your computer.
   • Oftentimes, a simple reboot will fix the problem you're having. Reboot your computer and test the website again.
3. Try loading the site in a different browser.
   • There may be some settings configured incorrectly on your browser. Try a different web browser to see if you can load the website.
4. Temporarily disable your antivirus program.
   • Your antivirus software may be interfering with your ability to load certain websites.
   • Try disabling the software and then loading the site again. Make sure you enable it again once you have identified the problem.
5. Reset  your modem and router.
   • Traffic to or from a certain website may be getting tripped up by your modem or router. Resetting these devices may allow you to access the website again.
6. Check your computer's date and time settings.
   • If your date or time is set incorrectly, you may not be able to connect to secure (https://) websites.
   • Check your computer or mobile device's clock to make sure that it is set to the correct time and date.

i. List of websites effected.
ii. Run the Speed Test via LAN (cable) and Wi-Fi connection - Please click here for Speed Test guideline.  
iii. Run the Traceroute Test - Please click here for Traceroute Test guideline.
iv. Run the Ping Test -  Please click here for Ping Test guideline.

Once you've gathered all the results, kindly send them all through the Feedback Form below.

Quick Info
A Speedtest is a service that provides free analysis of Internet access  parameters, such as connection data rate.
A Ping Test shows how long it takes for packets to reach host.    
A Traceroute Test traces the route of packets to destination host from our  server.

-The Mesh unit can only be used indoors. It can be mounted onto a wall or be placed horizontally on a desktop. Do not install it in other mode, such as on the ceiling.

-Keep a clearance of at least 10 cm around the device to ensure proper ventilation.

-Keep the device away from electrical appliances that generate strong magnetic or electric fields, such as microwave ovens.

This issue occurs because  your TV does not support the higher resolution.
 

STEP 1

Switch off the power for your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is off.
 

STEP 2

Switch on the power for your box and make sure that the adapter's power light is on.
 

STEP 3

Press the standby button repeatedly after switch on the power.

The Startup Options screen will appear on your TV.

STEP 4

Press "987" to access the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Then, press "1" to initiate a reset setting.

STEP 5

Press "OK" to confirm restore to factory setting.

STEP 6

After the factory setting is restored, TV will turn blank.

Please wait until the box completes initiate setup.

STEP 7

Press "1" to initiate Linux download on the software.

STEP 8

Once completed, the following screen will appear on your TV.

Refer to Installation Setup guide here to complete the setup.

For app, you may go to "Manage' > "Support' section and  provide your feedback either through the feedback form or chat with us via WhatsApp at 03-9543 3838.

For web, you may go to "Support' menu and provide your feedback either through the feedback form or chat with us via WhatsApp at 03-9543 3838.

For Ultra and/or Ulti box, you may chat with us via WhatsApp at 03-9543 3838.

1. Please standby computer/laptop to access to the internet and connection must be via LAN  (cable) [Connect the LAN (cable) to the yellow port in Maxis Router and  direct to computer/laptop].
2. You may open any web browser such as Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and etc.
3. On the address bar, please go to http://192.168.1.254 and below page will appear.

The default login of the router as below. If you have done a configuration on your router previously,  the password may be different.

Username: user
Password: Router S/N (Available on the sticker at the back of the router)

4. Once you have successfully login, the router's web-based setup page will appear. Please follow below steps for the configuration.

5. From the left menu, choose Wireless 2.4GHz  and then click Basic Settings tab on the left menu to access to below screen.

6. You may change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and the SSID Password to follow your preferences, then click "Save"  for the changes to take place.

Please reconnect to the new wireless name with the new password once completed.

7. Since this is a dual band router, you will have 2 Wireless Network Names  (SSID) i.e. 2.4GHz and  5GHz. You may connect to any of the SSID, preferably with a stronger signal available.

You may change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and the SSID Password to follow your preferences for 5GHz by choosing Wireless 5GHz  then click Basic Settings.

Click "Save" for the changes to take  place and reconnect to the new wireless name with the new password once  completed.

The minimum recommended internet speed is 10 Mbps for HD videos and 30 Mbps for 4K UHD videos.

You will be able to watch almost immediately while the content streams through your Astro Box. Buffer time for the video to load will depend on the speed of your broadband.

Your average internet usage is shown as below:

No, the Service Tax is a tax payable entirely to the Government. Astro acts as a collection agent for the Government.