How to Pay Your Electric Bill with Independence Power and Light

Paying your monthly electric bill to Independence Power and Light (IPL) is easy and convenient with multiple options available. As a Independence resident it is important to understand the different payment methods and assistance programs offered by IPL to pay your bill on time each month. In this article we will explain the available payment options, how to read your electric meter, and where to find help if you are struggling to pay your bill.

Payment Options

IPL offers various ways to pay your electric bill so you can choose the method that works best for your needs

• Call the automated phone payment system at (816) 325-SERV to pay over the phone using your credit/debit card or checking account. This is a quick, easy option for anyone with a phone.

• Pay online through the IPL website. You can set up recurring payments or make one-time payments.

• Mail your payment to the address provided on your bill statement. Be sure to allow enough time for the payment to reach IPL by the due date.

• Pay in person at the IPL Utility Customer Service Center located at 17221 E 23rd St South in Independence. You can pay with cash, check or money order.

• Pay at Independence City Hall located at 111 E Maple in Independence if you prefer paying downtown.

No matter which option you choose, be sure to have your account number handy to reference when making a payment. IPL must receive your payment by the due date shown on your bill to avoid late fees or disconnection.

Reading Your Electric Meter

Learning how to read your electric meter is useful for tracking your home’s energy usage from month to month. IPL meters record electricity usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Here are some tips for reading your meter:

• Stand in front of the meter and read the dials from left to right. Some dials spin clockwise while others spin counter-clockwise, so pay attention to the direction.

• Read the number each dial is pointing to. If the dial hand is between two numbers, record the lower number.

• Compare the reading to the previous month’s meter read on your bill to calculate your electricity usage for the month.

• Make sure the IPL meter reader has easy access to read your meter on the scheduled date each month. Obstructions like fences or debris can prevent accurate readings.

Knowing how to take a meter reading allows you to monitor your home’s electricity consumption and potentially identify ways to conserve energy and lower your bill.

Payment Assistance Programs

If you are having trouble paying your IPL electric bill, contact them to ask about payment assistance programs you may qualify for:

• The Budget Billing program averages your annual usage to determine a fixed monthly payment amount so you can avoid bill fluctuations.

• The CARE program provides a discount of 15% on your total electric bill if you meet income qualifications.

• Payment arrangements can be set up for those struggling to pay their entire balance. IPL may allow installment plans or extended due dates in certain situations.

• IPL partners with local assistance agencies that may be able to provide funds to help cover your electric bill through grants or loans.

No one should have to go without power due to financial hardship. Reach out to IPL as soon as possible if you anticipate difficulty paying your bill on time. Disconnection of service can be avoided with the right payment plan or assistance program.

Other Key Information

Here are some other important things to know related to paying your IPL electric bill:

• If IPL is unable to access your meter to get an actual read, your bill may show an estimated read based on your prior usage. This will be reconciled when they obtain a real read the following month.

• Tampering with meters or stealing utilities is illegal and dangerous. Report any suspected theft to protect yourself and your community.

• IPL owns and operates the electric system in Independence. Other utilities like water, gas and cable/internet are handled by different companies.

• Payment by the due date is essential to avoid late fees. Disconnection of service may occur after multiple missed payments.

Paying your electric bill doesn’t have to be a hassle with the right preparation and payment option. Independence Power and Light aims to make paying your bill as convenient as possible for residents. Reach out for assistance if you need help managing payments. Consistent on-time payments will allow you to keep the power flowing in your Independence home or business.