How to Pay Your Electric Bill with Somerset Rural Electric Cooperative

Paying your monthly electric bill is a routine task for most households and businesses. For members of Somerset Rural Electric Cooperative in Pennsylvania, several convenient payment options are available. Understanding these choices can help Somerset REC customers select the best bill pay method for their needs.

Overview of Somerset Rural Electric

Somerset Rural Electric Cooperative (Somerset REC) is a member-owned electric utility providing service to rural communities across Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The not-for-profit co-op has over 11,000 members.

As a cooperative, Somerset REC is governed by a democratically elected board of directors who represent the interests of the membership. One of the co-op’s core principles is providing reliable electricity to members at the lowest possible cost.

Payment Options Offered by Somerset REC

Somerset REC aims to make paying monthly electric bills as easy as possible for co-op members. Below are the various payment methods currently accepted:

• Online Bill Pay – Members can sign up for eBill to receive, view, and pay bills electronically The free service allows 24/7 access from the Somerset REC website. Customers can also view prior bills and print copies.

• Pay by Phone – The automated pay-by-phone system is available anytime by calling a toll-free number. Members can pay via checking/savings account Visa, Mastercard or Discover card.

• Auto Bill Pay – Have your bill automatically drafted from your bank account on the 25th of each month. No checks to write or late fees. Can be set up by phone or through online account.

• Mail – The traditional option of mailing a check or money order, using the return payment stub. Somerset REC asks members to not mail cash.

• In Person – Payments can be made at the Somerset REC office Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 4:00pm.

• Drop Box – For after hours, a secure curbside drop box is available in the co-op parking lot. A box is also located inside the front door. Payments are processed the next business day.

• Payment Apps – Somerset REC accepts Venmo (@Somerset-Rural-Electric) and PayPal ([email protected]) for added convenience. Be sure to include your 10-digit account number.

Choosing the Best Payment Method

With numerous choices available, Somerset REC members can select the most convenient way to pay each month based on their preferences:

• Online bill pay works well for technologically savvy customers who are comfortable managing financial accounts online.

• Auto bill pay is ideal for those who want to set payment and forget it. No late or missed payments.

• Pay by phone allows payment from anywhere while avoiding online access or checks.

• Mail remains a fine option for traditional members who prefer paper bills and payments.

• In person can be helpful to also discuss account details or payment arrangements face-to-face if needed.

• Drop box provides after hours convenience for busy members or those with 9-5 jobs.

Payment apps like Venmo cater nicely to younger demographics already using similar financial apps.

No matter your situation, Somerset REC aims to provide a payment method that meets your needs. Evaluate the options based on your habits, schedule, and tech comfort to pick your best fit.

Payment Methods Accepted by Somerset REC

In addition to numerous payment channels, Somerset REC also accepts a variety of payment types:

• Checking/savings accounts – Can be used for online, phone, auto pay, payment apps

• Credit/debit cards – Visa, MasterCard and Discover accepted for online and phone payments

• Cash – Accepted for in-person payments only

• Money orders – Accepted by mail or in office

• Checks – Accepted by mail or in office

Somerset REC does not accept cash payments by mail due to security concerns. Whichever your preferred payment channel, Somerset REC likely offers a type that aligns with your financial accounts.

Tips for Paying Your Electric Bill

To avoid late fees or disconnected service, be sure to pay your Somerset REC electric bill by the due date listed. A few tips:

• For auto pay or online pay, allow 3-5 business days for payments to process from your bank account.

• If mailing a check, allow 7-10 business days for delivery before the due date.

• When using drop boxes, pay at least 2 business days before the due date.

• Keep your account information up to date if paying via credit/debit cards or bank accounts.

• Contact Somerset REC immediately if you anticipate difficulty paying on time for a month.

Paying your electric bill on time can become habit with a bit of planning. Consider signing up for bill reminders through Somerset REC as well to stay on track each month.

Assistance Programs for Somerset REC Members

If you are struggling to pay your electric bill, Somerset REC does offer programs to help:

• Minimum Payment Plan – Allows a past due balance to be paid in installments over 3-6 months, avoiding disconnection.

• LIHEAP – Provides home heating bill assistance for those meeting low-income guidelines.

• Operation Round Up – Bill rounding program where members can donate to assist other members in need.

Don’t hesitate to contact Somerset REC at 800-443-4255 to discuss bill pay assistance options if you are eligible. Keeping your lights on should not be a struggle.

Contacting Somerset Rural Electric

Whether you have questions about payment options, need help with your account, or want to learn more about programs for members, Somerset REC’s Member Services team is available to help:

• By Phone: Call 800-443-4255 during business hours or 814-445-4106 after hours or for outages.

• In Person: Visit the Somerset REC office at 223 Industrial Park Road, Somerset, PA 15501 from 7:30am to 4:00pm weekdays.

• Online: Email [email protected] or access account online 24/7.

As a local, member-owned electric cooperative, Somerset REC strives to put members first and make bill payment straightforward. Evaluating the many options available can help discover your perfect payment fit each month.