Paying your utility bill to the City of Columbus is easy and convenient with their online payment options. The City of Columbus provides electricity, water, sewer, and trash services to residents and businesses in Columbus, Ohio. Here is a guide on how to pay your City of Columbus utility bill online.
Sign Up for an Online Account
The first step is to sign up for an online account on the City of Columbus Department of Public Utilities website This allows you to view and pay your bills online
Your most recent utility bill will have your 10-digit account number and ZIP code on it. Now you can sign up. The online account setup only takes a few minutes.
Once your account is created, you can view your current charges, see payment history, update account information, and enroll in paperless billing.
Payment Options
The City of Columbus offers several ways to pay your utility bill online
-
Credit/Debit Card – Pay by Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover card. A third-party convenience fee applies.
-
eCheck – Free payments directly from your bank account.
-
AutoPay – Set up recurring payments to be automatically deducted from your bank account each month
You can make one-time payments or schedule future payments. The online system keeps your payment information safe so you can use it again in the future.
When to Pay
Utility bills are issued monthly. The due date is typically 3 weeks after the billing date.
Payments are applied to the oldest charges first. Late fees apply if payment is not received by the due date.
For the best pricing, pay your bill in full by the due date. Partial payments still incur late fees on the unpaid balance.
Payment Confirmation
After submitting payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Payment typically processes within 1-2 business days.
You can view your recent payment history and confirm the payment posted by logging into your online account.
Financial Assistance
If you are having trouble paying your utility bill, the City of Columbus offers programs to help, including:
-
Payment arrangements – Set up a payment plan to pay past due balances over time.
-
PIPP Plus – Lower monthly payments based on income for qualifying customers.
-
HEAP – One-time heating assistance grants for low-income households.
Contact the City of Columbus utility customer service to discuss bill payment assistance options.
Avoid Late Fees
Pay your utility bill on time every month to avoid late fees. Better yet, enroll in AutoPay to have payments automatically deducted.
Also review your usage and look for ways to conserve electricity, water or natural gas. The City of Columbus provides energy audits and rebates on high-efficiency appliances to help lower utility costs.
Update Billing Address
If you move, make sure to update your address with the City of Columbus utilities. This ensures your future bills and correspondence go to the correct location.
You can change your address by logging in to your online account or calling customer service. Give your new mailing address and the date you plan to move.
Monitor Usage
Your online account allows you to view usage history and compare that to billing cycles. Watch for spikes that may indicate leaks or other issues.
Compare usage month-to-month to see the impact of conservation efforts. Track trends over time as the seasons change.
Abnormal usage may qualify you for a billing adjustment. Contact the City of Columbus utilities if you find questionable charges.
Go Paperless
Reduce paper waste and clutter by enrolling in paperless billing. With this option, you will receive an email notification when your bill is ready to view online.
Paperless billing makes it easy to access your current and past utility bills anytime. You can download PDF copies for your records as needed.
Going paperless also avoids the risk of bills getting lost in the mail. Review and pay your bill online by the due date each month.
Paying your City of Columbus utility bill online is fast, easy, and secure. Sign up for an account, choose a payment method that works for you, and avoid late fees. Monitor your usage and seek financial assistance if needed. Managing your utility account online saves time and ensures prompt payments.
Do you know if you will be raising your rates next year/soon?
Our Fiscal Office proposes any changes in rates. The number is 614-645-6272.
My bill can’t be this high, can you send someone out to check for leaks?
Our Customer Service Center will be able to help you with your high bill. The number is 614-645-8276. Representatives are available to take your call Monday through Friday 7:00 a. m. to 6:00 p. m. Or read about the most common causes of a high bill and learn how to check your meter reading.
City Chat: Electric Bill Payment Assistance
Where can I pay my Columbus utility bill?
Find in-person payment locations, online payment, or the mailing addresses. Western Union, Kroger, Meijer, Giant Eagle, Walgreens and others accept Columbus utility bill payments. For locations please visit Western Union or call 1 (800) 325-6000. Please be aware that contracted vendor payment locations charge a convenience fee.
How do I make a payment to the city of Columbus?
Welcome to One Time payment processing for the City of Columbus. Please enter the details of the account that you would like to make a payment on and click CONTINUE to proceed. Please enter a hyphen between your customer number and account number.
When will I receive my CCU Bill?
Every CCU customer will receive an invoice by mail in June, 2024. If you pay your bill online or have set up Auto Pay in the past, you’ll need to set up a new account with your new account number. Your new account number can be found on your June billing statement. Here’s a quick review on using CCU Bill Pay: