How to Pay Your PECO Bill In Person: A Step-by-Step Guide

Paying your PECO energy bill is an essential part of being a customer in Pennsylvania. While online payments and mailed checks are convenient options, sometimes you may prefer to pay your bill in person. Paying in person allows you to get instant confirmation that your payment was received. It also gives you the chance to ask questions or get other help if needed. This article will explain all the steps and information you need to successfully pay your PECO bill in person.

Finding an Authorized PECO Payment Location

The first step is finding an authorized PECO payment location near you. PECO has partnered with hundreds of payment centers across Pennsylvania to allow in-person payments. These locations include grocery stores check cashing stores, convenience stores and more.

To find a payment location:

• Go to the PECO website and log into your account.
• Under “Payment Options,” click on “Find a Payment Location.”
• Enter your zip code and click search. This will show options near you.
• You can also call PECO at 1-800-494-4000 to ask about nearby locations.

Some major chains that accept PECO payments include ACME, CVS, Dollar General, Giant, Safeway, Walmart, and more. Make sure to call your local store to confirm they accept PECO payments before going.

Know What to Bring to Make Your Payment

To pay your PECO bill in person. you’ll need to bring a few key pieces of information

• Photo ID Most payment locations will ask for a valid photo ID like a driver’s license, This is used to verify your identity

• PECO Account Number: This numbered account is listed on your PECO bill. The attendant will need this to process your payment correctly.

• Payment: You can pay your PECO bill with cash, credit/debit card, money order or check. Keep in mind some locations may not accept checks or have a minimum card amount.

• PECO Bill: While not always required, bringing your latest PECO bill can be useful if any questions come up.

As long as you have your account number and a valid form of payment, the process should go smoothly. Writing down your account number beforehand ensures you have it handy when needed.

The Step-by-Step Process to Make an In-Person Payment

Once you arrive at an authorized payment location, follow these steps:

1. Take your photo ID and PECO account number out to present to the attendant.

2. Let them know you need to make an in-person payment for your PECO account.

3. They will enter your PECO account number into their system.

4. Tell them how much you would like to pay today towards your PECO bill. You can pay any amount up to your full balance due.

5. Present your payment method when they request it. This is when you will provide cash, card, money order or check.

6. Wait for confirmation that your payment has been fully processed and accepted. The attendant may print out a receipt for you.

7. Keep the receipt as proof of your payment. You can also log into your PECO account to see the updated balance.

And that’s it! As long as you have your account number and valid ID, the process takes just a few minutes from start to finish. The attendant will handle entering all the necessary information into their system. Within 1-2 business days, your PECO account balance should reflect the payment you made.

Helpful Tips for In-Person Payments

Here are some additional pointers to make sure your PECO bill payment goes smoothly:

• Ask if there is a fee for in-person payments. Some locations charge $1-$3 per transaction. It’s good to be prepared for any fees.

• Avoid going on major due date days near the end of the month. Locations tend to be busier when bills are nearly due.

• Go during off-peak hours if possible, such as mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid long lines.

• Have your PECO account number saved in your phone or written down in case the attendant asks for it.

• Carry small bills if paying cash for simplicity.

• You can pay as often as you want if the location allows. Breaking a large bill into multiple payments is perfectly fine.

Paying your bill in person gives you the benefit of instant confirmation and the ability to ask any questions on the spot. While not always necessary, some people simply prefer handling financial transactions face-to-face. As long as you come prepared with your PECO account details and a valid form of payment, paying your bill in person can be a quick and easy process.

Options for In-Person Payments Besides PECO Authorized Locations

In addition to authorized partner locations, there are a couple other options for paying your PECO bill in person directly:

PECO Customer Service Centers – PECO has a few dedicated customer service centers in the Philadelphia area including one downtown location. You can go to a service center anytime during business hours to pay your bill in person.

By Mail – You can mail a check or money order payment to PECO directly, using the remittance slip and envelope from your bill. This is the slowest option but works if you prefer paying straight to the company.

While authorized payment locations are the most common route, PECO’s customer service centers and mail payments give you two additional in-person avenues.

Troubleshooting Common Problems and Concerns

When paying your PECO bill in person, here are some potential issues to be aware of:

• The location is unable to find your account. Double check that you are providing the correct PECO account number listed on your bill. Call PECO if you need to confirm.

• You are told your account is not in good standing. This likely means you have a past due balance or other issue on your account. You may need to call PECO to resolve it before being able to make a payment.

• The payment will not process due to insufficient funds. If paying by check, verify with your bank that you have enough funds available to cover the payment amount. Consider using another payment method.

• There are extremely long lines. Try coming back at another time when it is less busy. Avoid peak hours near the end of the month when bills are nearly due.

• The location charges a fee. Most locations charge a small service fee. Be prepared to pay an extra $1-$3 for the convenience of in-person payment.

• Your payment takes over 1 business day to reflect in your account. It can sometimes take 1-2 business days for an in-person payment to fully process. If it has been more than 2 days, give PECO a call.

• The location refuses certain types of payment. Some locations may not accept checks or have minimums for credit/debit cards. It’s good to carry some cash as a backup.

Paying your PECO bill in person should be fast and hassle-free as long as you follow the steps outlined in this article. With hundreds of authorized partner locations across Pennsylvania, you have plenty of choices on where to pay your bill. If any issues come up, call the PECO customer support line at 1-800-494-4000 for assistance getting them resolved.

PECO Bill Assistance Programs

If paying your PECO bill is difficult due to financial hardship, be sure to explore their bill assistance programs:

• Matching Energy Assistance Fund – Allows PECO customers to provide donations that get matched and given to those struggling to pay their bills.

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Provides grants to both renters and homeowners who meet income requirements and need help with energy bills.

• Customer Assistance and Referral Evaluation Services (CARES) – Helps low-income PECO customers manage and afford their utility bills.

PECO also offers flexible payment plans and arrangements to assist customers who cannot pay their full balance. Reach out to their customer service department for details on qualifying for bill assistance if needed.