A Straightforward Guide to Paying Your City of Portland Utility Bill Online

Paying your utility bill to the City of Portland is easy and convenient with online bill pay. As a resident of Portland, keeping up with these recurring charges for water, sewer, and stormwater is a regular part of managing your household budget. Utilizing the online system helps you pay on time, track usage, and stay informed as a customer. This comprehensive guide will explain how to register, make payments, set up autopay, and get assistance if needed for your City of Portland utility bill.

Overview of City of Portland Utility Billing

The City of Portland provides water, sewer, and stormwater services to residents. Every home and business receives a regular bill for these utilities that must be paid to continue receiving uninterrupted service.

The Portland Water Bureau handles billing and payment processing for all three utilities Bills are typically sent out monthly and allow about 25 days for payment before a late fee is charged.

Usage rates and additional fees depend on factors like the size of your household property type and more. The total utility bill amount reflects the combined charges for all three services.

Online bill pay provides a convenient way to manage payment, get billing information, set up automatic payments, go paperless, and more.

Registering for an Online Account

To get started with online bill pay, you first need to register for an account on the City of Portland website. Here are the steps to complete registration:

• Go to www.portlandoregon.gov/water/pay and click on “Make a One-Time Payment”.
• Click on the “Register for Online Access” button.
• Enter your 10-digit account number and the first four letters of your last name. This information can be found on your paper bill.
• Read through the Terms & Conditions and check the box to agree.
• Enter your email address and create a password.
• Check your email inbox for a verification message and click the link.
• Log into your new account on the website.

Once registered, you can start managing payments and account details through the online portal. Your information will be securely stored for quick access anytime.

Making One-Time Payments

For occasional or one-time payments, the online bill pay system allows you to securely pay without registration. Follow these steps:

• Go to www.portlandoregon.gov/water/pay and click on “Make a One-Time Payment”.
• Enter your 10-digit account number and four-letter last name code.
• Select whether you want to pay the full balance or a partial payment amount.
• Enter your payment details including card number, expiration date, and CVV security code.
• Carefully review all information and click Submit Payment when finished.

One-time payments are processed immediately after submitting. You’ll receive a confirmation email with details of the transaction. Log into your account to see the updated balance.

Setting Up Automatic Payments

For hands-off convenience, you can enroll in autopay through the online system. Your bill will be paid automatically each month directly from your bank account or credit/debit card.

To set up autopay:

• Log into your online account and access the AutoPay menu.
• Select your preferred payment source – bank account or credit/debit card.
• Enter the account information including routing and account numbers for bank accounts. Make sure all digits are entered accurately.
• Choose a payment date between the 1st and 28th of the month. Payments are deducted on this date each billing cycle.
• Agree to the authorization terms.
• Confirm your current bill will be paid on the next selected autopay date.

Autopay means you don’t have to remember to pay each month. Payments are made automatically on the date you specify to avoid late fees.

Going Paperless

You can opt to go paperless and receive bills electronically through email. This saves resources and clutter. Follow these instructions:

• Log into your online account and access the Paperless Billing menu.
• Select Go Paperless and confirm your current email.
• Agree to receive emails and check your inbox for an initial email confirmation.
• Your first eBill will arrive digitally on your next scheduled bill date.

Make sure to keep your email address updated in the system. You’ll receive an email notification when it’s time to view and pay your latest bill.

Getting Account Assistance

If you need help with bill pay or have questions about your City of Portland utility account, customer service assistance is available:

• Call the customer service line at 503-823-7770 Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm.
• Email questions and requests anytime to [email protected].
• Chat online through the virtual assistant on the website.
• Visit the walk-in center at 664 N Tillamook St, Portland, OR 97227 from 8am to 4pm on weekdays.

You can also request translations, interpretations, accommodations, and alternative formats. The website and materials are available in multiple languages.

Knowledgeable representatives can help explain charges, make payment arrangements, update account details, and more. Reach out for personalized assistance.

Applying for Financial Aid and Discounts

If you’re having trouble paying your utility bill, the City of Portland offers financial assistance programs:

• The Utility Safety Net Program provides an ongoing monthly discount up to $760 per year for qualifying low-income households. You can also get a one-time crisis credit of $500.

• Flexible payment plans break your balance into smaller installments to make it more affordable month-to-month. Plans are interest-free.

• Temporary disability/hardship discounts are available in certain situations for qualifying households.

Submit an application online or contact customer service about bill discount programs you may be eligible for. Provide necessary proof of income, residency, and ID.

Financial assistance can help lower your burden so your utilities stay connected.

Additional Billing Resources

Take advantage of resources to understand charges and manage your City of Portland utility account:

• Review the current residential rate schedules for water, sewer, stormwater, and other fees.

• Learn how to read and understand your bill with line-by-line explanations.

• Check your usage history in the online account portal to monitor spikes and trends. Set usage alerts.

• Use the calculator to estimate your average monthly bill based on housing type, residents, and more.

• See if you qualify for an adjustment due to an unexplained water usage spike from a leak.

Knowing the ins and outs of your bill helps you budget accordingly, identify issues early, and minimize charges.

Paying your Portland utilities bill doesn’t have to be a hassle with the convenient online payment system. Register for an account, automate payments, track usage, and manage paperless billing. Contact customer service if you need assistance or want to apply for financial aid. Keeping up with these recurring costs on time ensures your essential home services continue uninterrupted.