Convenient Options for Paying Your Water Bill

Paying your monthly water bill is an essential utility payment. But you don’t necessarily have to mail a check or pay online Many water providers offer convenient in-person payment locations as well Here are some of the common places you can pay your water bill.

Local Water Company Office

Most water utilities have a customer service office or payment center where you can pay your bill in person. For example:

• New York City DEP – NYC residents can visit a DEP Borough Office or NYC Dept of Finance Business Center.

• Philadelphia Water – Philly offers a payment center at the Municipal Services Building downtown.

• Phoenix Water Services – Phoenix has a Payment Service Center for in-person payments.

Visiting your water provider’s office is a surefire way to pay since they process payments directly.

Authorized Payment Centers

Some water companies also contract with authorized third-party centers to accept payments. These are usually local businesses that volunteer to take payments as a convenience to customers. The Phoenix water department lists Chase Bank branches as authorized pay stations. And NYC DEP bills can be paid at any NYC Dept of Finance Business Center around the city.

Retail Stores

Major retail chains like Walmart, CVS, Kroger and others may also let you pay your water bill at their stores for a small fee. You’ll need your account number to make a payment at the customer service desk or self-service kiosk. Just know payments can take 1-3 days to process to your account.

Local Grocery Stores & Pharmacies

Smaller local grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies often provide water bill payment services in their communities. Look for signs advertising utility payments. These smaller pay stations typically process your payment right away to avoid late fees.

Banks and Credit Unions

Many banks and credit unions allow you to pay water bills or other utilities at their branches. Some require you to have an account, while others let anyone pay as a courtesy. Bank payments usually post to your water account within 1-2 business days.

Online Bank Bill Pay

You can use your bank or credit union’s online bill pay service to send a free payment to your water provider. Just set them up as a payee in your online banking account. e-Checks through bill pay go directly to the water company and avoid processing delays.

By Mail

Mail your payment using the return envelope provided with your monthly water bill. Just make sure to mail it 3-5 business days before the due date in case of postal delays. Consider signing up for online billing to skip mailing payments.

Online Payments

Virtually all water departments now offer online account management and bill payment. Sign up on your utility’s website to pay by e-check or credit/debit card. You can go paperless and auto-pay the bill each month.

Pay by Phone

Many water companies have automated phone payment systems you can use to pay your bill 24/7 by phone. Have your account number and payment info ready when you call. Phone payments are quick and easy.

In Person Payment Tips

If paying your water bill in person, keep these tips in mind:

• Have your account number or recent bill available
• Know your balance beforehand
• Bring cash, check, money order or card
• Make sure funds are available if paying by check
• Get a receipt as payment proof

Avoid Late Fees

To avoid late fees, know your water bill due date and pay at least 2-3 business days before, especially at third-party pay stations. Late fees can add 10% or more to your bill. Setting up autopay can also prevent late payments.

Payment Records

Keep bank records, receipts or confirmation numbers whenever you pay your water bill. Having payment proof can help if your account gets mistakenly marked delinquent or sent to collections.

Support Local Businesses

Paying at local pharmacies, grocery stores or bank branches also helps support small businesses in your community. So you get convenient bill payment while contributing to the local economy.

Flexible Options Save Time

Between work, school, and family commitments, free time is limited. Having flexible water bill payment options at banks, retail stores, online, and phone lets you pay your bill quickly and avoid late fees. Check with your water provider to find authorized pay stations near you. Then choose the payment method that best fits your busy schedule each month.

In Summary

You can pay your water bill at many locations besides the water company office, including:

• Authorized pay stations
• Retail stores and pharmacies
• Your bank or credit union
• By phone, online, or mail
• Local grocers and small businesses