How to Pay Your Water Bill in the City of Florence

Paying your monthly water bill is an essential responsibility for every resident and business in the City of Florence While the process is relatively straightforward, it helps to understand the various payment options available, as well as key policies related to billing, rates, and fees This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to pay your water bill in the City of Florence.

Overview of the City of Florence Water Utility

The City of Florence provides water service to all customers within the Florence city limits. The water utility is part of the City’s Utilities Department. Key facts about the Florence water system include:

• Supplies drinking water sourced from groundwater and surface water sources
• Serves approximately 25,000 residential and business customers
• Bills customers on a monthly basis
• Manages water treatment, distribution, customer service and billing

Ensuring payment of water bills is crucial for the City to cover its costs and continue providing safe and reliable water service to the community.

Payment Options for Water Bills

The City of Florence offers customers multiple options for paying their monthly water bills

Pay Online

• The most convenient way to pay is through the City’s online payment portal. Customers can pay bills immediately using the “Pay Online” link on the City website.

• The online system accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and electronic check payments.

• Customers can also opt for auto-draft payments and manage their account online.

Pay by Phone

• Customers can call the City’s automated payment line at 843-665-3155 and use a credit/debit card to pay over the phone.

• Speaking with a customer service rep is also an option at this number.

Pay by Mail

• The monthly bill includes a payment stub that can be mailed with a check or money order.

• Payments should be sent to the mailing address printed on the bill to avoid processing delays.

Pay in Person

• Customers can pay with cash, check or credit/debit card at the City of Florence Utility Services office at 324 W. Evans Street.

• An after-hours drop box is also available in the parking lot for check/money order payments.

Pay via Bank Draft

• Customers can sign up for auto-draft payments directly from their checking or savings account.

• Bank draft applications are available online or at the Utility Services office.

The City does not accept payments through third party apps like CashApp, Chime or Apple Pay. The most convenient and secure options are paying online, by phone or bank draft.

Understanding Your Water Bill

Water bills in Florence arrive monthly and are typically due by the 15th of each month. Here are some key details on billing processes and charges:

• Bills are sent at the beginning of each month reflecting the prior month’s usage

• The bill amount is based on monthly fixed service charges plus water usage charges

• Usage is billed in units of hundreds of gallons (CCF)

• Due dates are extended to the next business day if the 15th falls on a weekend/holiday

• Late fees of $6.50 are charged if not paid by the 6th of each month

• Delinquent accounts over 120 days past due are sent to collections

• Rate increases occur periodically – the last increase was 5% in July 2024

Review your monthly bill carefully to ensure there are no errors. Notify the City immediately if your usage seems abnormal. Catching leaks early can save significant money.

Avoid Late Fees and Service Disruption

The City relies on water bill payments to fund operations and maintenance. That’s why it’s crucial to pay your bill in full and on time every month. Consequences for late payment include:

• Late payment fee added to account on the 6th of each month

• Water service disconnected for non-payment

• $46 reconnection fee to restore service after shut-off

• 30-60 days past due sent to collections

• Additional fees and penalties added if sent to collections

Avoid these outcomes by paying your bill early or setting up auto-pay. Contact the City immediately if you anticipate difficulty paying on time. Payment plans or assistance programs may be available based on eligibility. Maintaining good standing on your account ensures uninterrupted water service.

Special Billing Considerations and Policies

Be aware of these other important notes related to City of Florence water utility billing:

• Update your contact info if moving to avoid bills sent to the wrong address

• Watch for signs of water leaks if usage seems abnormal

• Only the account holder can discuss billing details over the phone

• Final payments are due upon closing an account when moving out

• New service activation requires a one-time $23 processing fee

• Cash payments are not accepted – online, check, credit/debit only

Following these policies helps ensure accurate billing and timely payment on your account. Keep the Utilities Department updated on any changes to your account.

Explore Payment Assistance Options

For qualified customers facing financial hardship, the City offers payment assistance programs or flexible payment plans. Options include:

• CARES assistance – up to $500 in bill credits for eligible customers

• Payment arrangements – make partial payments over time

• Balance forgiveness – available one time for eligible customers

• Free leak detection – identify and repair costly hidden leaks

Contact the City to learn more about these programs. Don’t let an overdue balance spiral – call early to understand your options.

Paying your monthly water bill ensures ongoing access to an essential service we often take for granted – clean, safe drinking water. The City of Florence offers convenient payment methods and proactive billing policies to make the process straightforward for customers. Avoid late fees and service disruption by paying on time and leveraging auto-pay options. Seek assistance if you anticipate difficulty making payments. Maintaining your account in good standing benefits both you and your community. Reach out to the City’s Utility Services team for any billing questions.