Paying Your Elizabeth City Electric Bill: Payment Options, Due Dates, and More

Paying your electric bill on time each month is an important responsibility as a customer of the City of Elizabeth City Electric Department. This article will explain the various ways you can pay your electric bill, key dates, policies, and tips for managing electric payments to the City of Elizabeth City.

Overview of Elizabeth City Electric Service

The City of Elizabeth City provides electric service to residents and businesses located within the city limits. Some key facts

• The City electric department serves over 9,300 customers.

• Residential, commercial, industrial, and other customer classes are served.

• The City purchases wholesale power and distributes it.

• Electric rates are set by Elizabeth City City Council.

• The electric department is part of the City’s municipal operations

• An electric bill is typically sent each month covering usage and additional applicable fees.

Knowing how the local electric utility operates can help you better understand billing and payment policies.

Payment Options for Elizabeth City Electric Bills

The City offers several ways to pay your monthly electric bill:

• Online – Payments can be made anytime through the City’s online payment portal. You can pay by e-check or debit/credit card.

• By Phone – The City has contracted with a payment processor to accept payments over the phone. Fees apply based on payment method.

• Drive-Thru Kiosk – A 24/7 payment kiosk is located at City Hall to make electric payments.

• By Mail – Mail your payment to the address listed on the bill. Allow 5 business days for delivery.

• In Person – Bring your bill to the City utility building at 407 S Griffin Street to pay in person.

• Drop Box – A secure drop box is available for after hours payments at the utility building.

The City aims to offer a convenient payment option for every customer, whether in person, online, by phone, or by mail. Review your statement carefully each month and select a payment method that works best for you before the due date.

Key Dates and Deadlines for Paying Your Electric Bill

To avoid late fees and service interruptions, be aware of these key dates:

• Statement Date – This is the date your meter is read and charges calculated. Bills are prepared within 1-3 business days.

• Due Date – Payment must be received by this date, about 20 days after the statement date. It is printed on your bill.

• Late Date – Bills are considered late the day after the due date. A late fee will be assessed.

• Disconnect Date – If a bill is 30 days past due, electric service may be disconnected on this date.

Mark your calendar with the due date as soon as you receive your electric bill. Note it takes around 5 business days for a mailed payment to reach the utility billing office. You can also set up automated payments through your bank or through the online payment system.

Billing Policies and Fees of Elizabeth City Electric

The City has established the following policies and fees related to electric billing and payment:

• A late fee of $10 or 1.5% of the unpaid balance is charged for past due bills.

• Accounts 30 days past due may be disconnected. A $40 reconnect fee applies.

• Partial payments are accepted but do not waive disconnection for nonpayment.

• Extensions may be granted but must be requested before the due date. Max extension is 5 business days.

• A $25 fee is charged for returned payments due to insufficient funds.

• The City reserves the right to require deposits for new customers or those with poor payment history.

Review the full electric service policies on the City’s website to avoid unnecessary fees and service interruptions.

Tips for Paying Your Elizabeth City Electric Bill

Use these tips to help stay on top of your electric bill payments:

• Provide accurate account and contact information so you receive bills in a timely manner.

• Open and review bills as soon as you receive them to avoid missed due dates.

• Mark your calendar with due dates and set payment reminders.

• Sign up for automated payments or recurring reminders to avoid late fees.

• Contact customer service immediately if you anticipate difficulty paying a bill by the due date.

• If funds are tight, prioritize paying your electric bill over less essential purchases that month.

• Consider enrolling in budget billing to spread costs evenly over the year.

• Monitor your usage and payment history through the online customer portal.

• Update your contact information or billing method if anything changes.

Keeping your account in good standing ensures uninterrupted electric service while avoiding unnecessary fees. Reach out to the Elizabeth City Electric Department with any questions on billing, payments, or electric service.

Assistance Programs for Elizabeth City Electric Customers

If you are struggling financially, these programs through the City’s electric department may be able to help:

• Payment Arrangements – Set up a payment plan for past due balances.

• Extensions – One-time due date extensions may be available if arranged before disconnection.

• Project Share – Provides emergency bill payment assistance for qualified applicants.

• Helping Each Member Cope (HEMC) – Raises and allocates funds to help customers in financial crisis.

In addition, the following federal and state programs offer bill payment assistance:

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

• Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)

• North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply for these utility assistance programs on the City’s website or by calling the electric department.

Summary of Paying Elizabeth City Electric Bills