A Comprehensive Guide to Paying Your Water Bill in El Dorado, Arkansas

Having access to clean, safe drinking water is a basic necessity of life. As an El Dorado resident and water customer, it’s important to understand your options for paying your water utility bill conveniently and on time each month. This guide will walk through everything you need to know about paying your El Dorado water bill.

We’ll explore the various payment methods available, online account options, due dates, late fees, and other key details. Read on for helpful tips and resources to keep your water service running smoothly in El Dorado.

Overview of El Dorado Water Utility

The city of El Dorado’s water service is provided by El Dorado Water Utilities, a municipal utility owned by the city government. They supply water to residential and commercial customers within El Dorado city limits.

The utility is overseen by the El Dorado Water Utilities Commission, which sets rates and policies. Day-to-day operations are handled by utility staff based at the utility’s office and service center at 500 N. Washington Ave.

In addition to water service, El Dorado Water Utilities also maintains the city’s wastewater sewer system But for most customers, the main interaction is paying your monthly water bill

Online Account Access

El Dorado Water Utilities offers online account access for customers through their website, eldoradowater.com. With an online account, customers can:

• View current account balance
• Check previous water usage and billing history
• Make one-time online payments
• Set up automatic monthly payments

To sign up, you’ll need your 10-digit account number from your latest bill Online account access is a useful tool for monitoring your water usage and ensuring payments are made on time each month.

Payment Methods Accepted

El Dorado Water Utilities offers several options for customers to pay their water bills:

• Online – One-time payments can be made online 24/7 using debit/credit cards. A processing fee of $2.60 or 3% applies.
• By phone – Call during business hours to pay over the phone with a card.
• In person – Pay with cash, check, or card at the utility office during business hours.
• Drop box – The drive-through drop box is available 24/7 for check or money order payments.
• By mail – Mail a check or money order with your bill stub to the utility P.O. Box.
• Bank bill pay – Use your bank’s online bill pay to send a payment from your bank account.

The utility does not accept payments through third party bill pay apps like Doxo. But the variety of direct payment options offers customers flexibility based on their needs.

When Is Your Water Bill Due Each Month?

According to El Dorado Water Utility’s website, water bills are due for payment by the 10th of each month.

So for example, if your billing date is January 1st, your payment must be received by January 10th to avoid penalties. This standard net-10 due date applies to all residential and commercial water customers.

Printed bills are usually mailed out around the 25th of each month. But customers can check their current balance online anytime. It’s advisable to pay a few days early to account for mail and processing time.

What Happens If You Pay Late?

Unfortunately, El Dorado Water Utilities charges substantial late fees for overdue water bills. According to the utility’s rate schedule, late fees are:

• 10% penalty – Applied to the outstanding balance if not paid by due date.
• $10 processing fee – Added for each late notice mailed.
• 1.5% monthly interest – Applied to past due balances.

With compounded interest and multiple late notices, these charges can quickly add up. The utility stresses that even if you’re waiting for payday or made an honest mistake, exceptions cannot be made on late fees.

That’s why it’s crucial to pay your water bill on time every month. Set a recurring reminder on your calendar and utilize online payment options to avoid painful late penalties.

What If You Can’t Pay Your Bill?

If you’re ever unable to pay your water bill in full by the due date, don’t panic – but do take action quickly. Here are some steps recommended by the utility:

• Contact the utility office – Explain your situation and request an extension or payment plan. They may be able to work with you.
• Apply for assistance – Programs like the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) may provide aid.
• Prioritize water – Re-allocate funds from lower priorities to maintain this vital service.
• Avoid extra fees – Pay what you can by the due date to minimize late penalties.

Keeping the lines of communication open is key. The utility would much rather set up arranged payments than go through a shut-off process. So ask for help early if you anticipate having trouble paying your water bill.

Can Your Water Be Shut Off for Non-Payment?

If a water bill remains unpaid for long enough, El Dorado Water Utilities can eventually disconnect service. But there is an extensive process they must follow beforehand under state regulations.

According to Arkansas law, residential service cannot be disconnected until:

• Account is delinquent for at least 30 days
• Customer has been provided 7 day written shut-off notice
• Customer has opportunity for a hearing

The utility typically mails multiple late notices and reminders before reaching shut-off stage. Again, communicating with them can help avoid actual disconnection.

But if service is disconnected, reconnection fees apply. And the full past due balance plus fees will need to be paid to restore your water service after a shut-off. Maintaining communication and payment arrangements is key to avoiding shut-offs.

In Summary: Tips for Paying Your El Dorado Water Bill

Paying your monthly water bill on time is a responsibility all El Dorado residents must manage. Avoid the stress of late fees and shut-offs by utilizing these bill payment tips:

• Sign up for online account access to monitor usage and balances
• Pay online or by phone for convenience
• Note due dates and pay by the 10th of each month
• Contact the utility immediately if you anticipate issues paying
• Learn about assistance programs if needed
• Set reminders and automate payments to avoid lapses

Understanding all the payment options and policies related to your water service enables you to take control. Partner with El Dorado Water Utilities, communicate early on issues, and pay on time to keep the water flowing.