Paying your water bill is an essential part of being a responsible resident of Hamtramck. While it may seem like a routine task, there are a few steps you need to take to make sure your payment is processed correctly. This guide will walk you through the process of paying your Hamtramck water bill efficiently and on time.
Understanding Your Hamtramck Water Bill
Your water bill provides important information you need to make your payment. Here are the key sections to review:
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Account information This includes your account number, service address, and customer name Have these handy when you go to pay
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Service period: This shows the date range your bill covers. Hamtramck water bills are sent out bi-monthly.
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Water usage Your bill calculates charges based on actual water usage in gallons Check that your usage aligns with your expectations,
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Sewer charges: You are also billed for sewer service based on your water usage.
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Account balance This shows the total amount owed for the service period Any past due balance will be indicated as well,
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Due date: Your payment must be received by this date to avoid penalties. Hamtramck water bills are due 21 days after the bill date.
Reviewing these sections prepares you to make a payment matching the amount billed. Notify the water department immediately if you find any discrepancies.
Payment Options for Hamtramck Water Bills
The City of Hamtramck provides several payment options to conveniently pay your water bill:
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Online payment: Pay by e-check or credit card via the GuestPay portal. You can make one-time payments or set up recurring payments.
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Phone payment: Call 586-770-2880 to pay by credit card over the phone. Be sure to have your account information ready.
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Mail payment: Detach the payment stub from your bill and enclose it with a check or money order. Mail to the address printed on the stub. Allow 5-7 days for delivery.
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In-person payment: Bring your bill and payment to Hamtramck City Hall during business hours. Cash, check, or money order accepted.
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Drop box: The City Hall drive-thru drop box is available 24/7 to leave a check or money order payment.
The most convenient options are online and phone payments through GuestPay. However, choose the option that best suits your needs each billing period.
Steps to Pay Your Bill Online
Paying online via GuestPay is a fast, secure way to pay your Hamtramck water bill. Just follow these steps:
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Visit the GuestPay payment site.
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Select “Pay Water Bill” from the menu and enter your 11-digit account number.
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Enter your service address zip code when prompted.
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Review the account information and amount due. Click “Add to Cart” to continue.
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If paying multiple bills, enter additional accounts. Click “Check Out” when finished.
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Select payment method – e-check or credit/debit card. Enter payment details.
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Carefully review payment details then click “Process Payment” to submit.
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Save the payment confirmation number for your records. You will also receive a payment confirmation email.
The payment is usually applied to your account within 1-2 business days. Be sure to pay your balance by the due date to avoid late fees.
Tips for Hassle-Free Water Bill Payments
Follow these tips and best practices for a smooth Hamtramck water bill payment process:
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Pay your bill in full each period to avoid carrying an outstanding balance.
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If you can’t pay in full, pay as much as possible by the due date, then call to make arrangements for the remainder.
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Mark your calendar with each bill’s due date so you remember to pay on time. Late fees are 10% of the overdue balance.
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Sign up for paperless billing via GuestPay to receive bills electronically.
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Set up automatic recurring payments so your bill gets paid on its own each period.
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Update your contact information and email address if they change so you continue receiving bills.
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Contact the water department immediately if you notice unusually high usage that seems inaccurate.
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If going on vacation, make arrangements to have bills paid in your absence to avoid penalties.
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Don’t ignore final notices – call the water department if your account becomes delinquent.
Staying on top of your Hamtramck water bill payments ensures uninterrupted service while avoiding unnecessary fees. Now that you understand the bill and payment process, paying your bill can be fast and hassle-free. Reach out to the water department with any payment issues or questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamtramck Water Bills
Here are answers to some common questions about Hamtramck water bills and payments:
How often are water bills sent out?
Hamtramck sends out water bills bi-monthly. You will receive six bills per year.
What are the billing periods?
Bills are issued on a bimonthly basis in cycles. Account numbers ending in 0, 1, 2 or 8 are on cycle 1. Accounts ending in 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 9 are on cycle 2.
How long do I have to pay my water bill?
Payments are due 21 days from the billing date printed on your bill. Payments received after the due date will incur a 10% late fee.
What is the GuestPay service fee for online payments?
GuestPay charges a $1.95 service fee for electronic checking payments. Credit and debit card payments incur a 2.95% service fee (minimum $1.95).
Can I pay my water bill in person?
Yes, you can pay in person at Hamtramck City Hall using cash, check or money order. City Hall is located at 3401 Evaline St.
What do I do if I’m going on vacation when my bill is due?
You can pay ahead or set up recurring payments to avoid late fees. You can also call the water department and request a due date extension.
What should I do if I notice an error on my bill?
Contact the Hamtramck Water Department right away if your bill seems inaccurate. Call 313-800-5233 (H2O) to discuss the issue.
How can I check my water usage or payment history?
You can access your usage and payment history through your online GuestPay account. Sign up on the GuestPay portal.
Who do I contact if my water service needs to be turned on/off?
Contact the Hamtramck Water Department at 313-800-5233 (H2O) to start or stop water service at your home or business.
Hopefully this guide covered all you need to know to pay your Hamtramck water bill smoothly and avoid any unnecessary fees or headaches. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the helpful water department staff if any other questions come up. Staying on top of your bill payment is a small but mighty act of responsible citizenship.
