How to Pay Your Washington, NC Utility Bill

Paying your utility bill is an essential responsibility as a Washington, NC resident. The city provides vital services like power, water, sewer, and garbage collection that rely on customers paying their utility bills on time each month. This article will explain your Washington utility bill, ways to pay it, assistance programs, and tips to avoid late fees.

Understanding Your Washington Utility Bill

Your utility bill from Washington Utilities covers various services depending on where you live in the city

• Electric: All residents receive electricity from the city-owned Washington Electric Utilities. This covers power generation and delivery.

• Water: The city provides drinking water service to most residents, charging for usage.

• Sewer The city handles wastewater treatment for much of Washington Sewer charges are based on water usage

• Garbage: Weekly garbage collection is billed by the city for houses with city water service.

• Stormwater: This fee helps maintain drainage systems. It’s based on a property’s impervious surface area.

Bills are sent out monthly and due within 25 days. Review your detailed usage and charges carefully each month. Contact Washington Utilities customer service if you have any bill questions.

Ways to Pay Your Utility Bill in Washington

Washington offers many payment options to fit your needs:

• Online: Pay by credit/debit card or electronic check at the city’s website. View past bills and set up automatic payments.

• Phone: Call the automated payment line at 1-877-201-3770 or the customer service number to pay.

• Mail: Send a check or money order payable to “City of Washington” to the address on your bill.

• Drop Box: Use the drive-up drop boxes at the Municipal Building or Sheriff’s Office.

• In Person: Pay with cash, check, or credit/debit card at the Municipal Building customer service desk.

• Bank: Take your bill to First National Bank’s Washington branch to pay it.

• Auto Pay: Deduct your bill from your bank account each month through the city’s auto-draft program.

Avoid Late Fees and Disconnection

To avoid penalties, make sure to pay your utility bill by the due date printed on your statement. Washington charges a late fee after 25 days and can disconnect service after 30 days past due. Avoid additional fees and potential shut offs by:

• Paying early enough to account for mailing time or processing delays.

• Setting bill reminders and using auto-draft or online billing/payment.

• Getting estimates for large variable bills like water and adjusting your budget.

• Contacting customer service immediately if you’ll be late on payment.

Assistance Programs for Utility Bills

If you’re struggling to pay your utility bill, Washington offers programs that can help:

• Payment plans: Arrange an extended repayment schedule for past due balances.

• Aid agencies: Local groups like UMCOR provide emergency utility bill aid.

• LIHEAP: This federal program provides heating and cooling bill assistance.

• Project Share: Donate to support low-income families with Washington Utility bills.

• Conservation tips: Reduce usage with tools like the city’s home energy calculator to lower costs.

Discuss eligibility and applications for these programs with Washington’s customer service team. Local non-profits and charities may also have additional resources.

Moving In or Out? Arranging Service

To start, stop, or transfer Washington Utility service, here’s the process:

• Start: Contact the city well before your move-in date to establish service in your name and avoid delays.

• Stop: Notify the city at least 1 day before you move out to schedule a final meter read and final bill.

• Transfer: When moving between city residences, provide a move date to seamlessly transfer service.

There are fees for starting service, so contact the city as early as possible. Provide accurate contact information and proof of identity to set up new accounts.

Paying your utility bill fully and on time is a key duty as a Washington resident. This guide covered the city’s billing process, payment tips, and assistance programs. Reach out to customer service with any other questions on your Washington utility statement.