Abstract: A system of remotely distributed machines is provided for paying bills issued by each of several different remote issuers, such as telephone, electricity, gas, and electric utilities. Each machine preferably has its own computer, a bar-code scanner, and means for accepting payments, preferably in cash. A bill is inserted by the user into the bar-code scanner, which reads the identity of the issuer, the amount owed, and the due date for payment, etc. The user deposits payment into the machine, preferably in cash, and the computer in each machine gives credit for payments made, computes the amount of any late penalties, and computes the balance due. The credits are stored in the machine and the information is conveyed to the proper one of the different issuers. The funds are collected regularly from the machines and credited to the accounts of the different issuers in accordance with the issuer identification data and credits stored in the machine.

Abstract: A vending machine for dispensing relatively flat, thin articles, and particularly for dispensing valuable articles such as debit cards and tickets. A blocking bar is mounted adjacent the outlet of the dispensing mechanism and is adjustably but firmly positioned to positively block the issuance of more than one ticket at a time in response to the action of a pusher member. A device preferably comprising one or more rollers is provided near the entrance to the blocking bar so as to bear down on and flatten curved cards or tickets to insure that they will not jam against the blocking bar due to their lack of flatness.

Abstract: A vending machine for dispensing relatively flat, thin articles, and particularly for dispensing valuable articles such as debit cards and tickets. The articles to be dispensed are stored in removable chutes. Lockable covers are provided for the chutes so as to provide safe transportation containers for the valuable articles. Automatic device is provided for displacing the covers upon insertion of the chutes into the dispensing mechanism so as to prepare the mechanism for immediately dispensing the articles and eliminating the need to totally remove the covers during usage.