A Guide to Paying Your Frederick County Water Bill

If you’re a resident or business owner in Frederick County, Maryland keeping your water and sewer bill paid is essential for maintaining uninterrupted service. The county offers several convenient payment options to fit any schedule or preference. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paying your Frederick County water bill.

We’ll start with an overview of the billing process and cycle. Then we’ll go through all the payment methods from online payments to mailing in checks. You’ll also learn how to set up autopay view past bills, and get billing alerts. We’ve included tips on avoiding late fees, understanding your charges, and getting billing assistance if needed.

Whether you want to go paperless or prefer mailed paper bills, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to pay your Frederick County water bill quickly and easily. Let’s dive in!

The Billing Process

Frederick County Utility Billing issues water and sewer bills every month. Bills are typically mailed on the last business day of the month.

Your bill covers services for the prior month. For example, the bill you receive in July covers your usage for June. Payment is due by the due date shown on your bill, usually around the 20th of the current month.

Meters are read monthly and charges are calculated based on your actual water consumption. Sewer charges are based on your water usage since most water ends up going into the sewer system.

If your bill seems higher than normal, first check for household leaks. You can also contact Utility Billing to ask about your usage. Rate increases approved by the County Commissioners may also impact your bill.

Payment Options

Frederick County offers various ways to pay your water and sewer bill:

• Online – Pay via credit/debit card or e-check through the online payment portal. You’ll need your account number.

• Phone – Call the payment center at 1-855-748-6066. Payments can be made with credit/debit cards or checking accounts.

• Mail – Detach payment stub from bill and mail with check or money order to the address listed. Allow 7-10 days for processing.

• Drop Box – Place your payment (check or money order only) in the secure drop box at 4520 Metropolitan Court.

• In Person – Pay with cash, check, or money order at the Utility Billing office weekdays from 8 AM to 4 PM.

• AutoPay – Set up recurring payments from your bank account on your bill’s due date. Complete and submit the auto-debit authorization form.

Avoid Late Fees

To avoid a 10% late penalty, your payment must be received by the due date shown on your bill. Make sure to pay early if mailing a check or using bill pay through your bank.

If you receive a late notice, pay the past due amount promptly to prevent service interruption. A $30 fee applies for any checks returned for insufficient funds.

View or Print Your Bill

Register for an account on the Online Bill Pay portal using your account number. Once registered, you can view current and past PDF versions of your bills.

You can also update account information, set up paperless billing, monitor usage, and receive bill notifications. Paperless billing means bills will no longer be mailed; you’ll get an email when it’s ready to view online.

Get Billing Alerts

Enabling billing alerts through the online portal ensures you never miss a due date. Choose to receive alerts for:

• New bills generated
• Due dates approaching
• Payments posted
• Late notices

Alerts are sent to the email associated with your online account. You can also opt for text alerts to stay on top of your bill on the go.

Understand Your Charges

Your water and sewer bill has separate sections for water and sewer charges based on metered usage. Basic customer and infrastructure charges also apply.

The back of your paper bill breaks down the rate structure and fees. Costs vary based on factors like meter size, property type, and sewer classification. Visit the county website to view the full fee schedule.

Most fees directly correlate to the costs of providing you with water and sewer service. Reach out to Utility Billing with any questions on specific charges.

Get Billing Assistance

If you’re struggling to keep up with water and sewer bills, the county offers assistance programs:

• Payment Arrangements – Set up a payment plan for past due balances. Multiple arrangements can be made if needed.

• Leak Adjustments – One-time bill adjustment if a household leak caused excess water usage. Proof of leak repair is required.

• Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) – Helps income-eligible households maintain essential utility services.

Contact Utility Billing to learn more about applying for these programs if you need help with your water and sewer bill.

Stay Informed

Check the county website regularly for news on rate changes, service interruptions, utility projects, and other updates that could impact your bill and services. Update your contact info with Utility Billing to receive important notifications.

Reading your monthly bill closely, paying on time, and addressing any customer service issues promptly will keep your county water and sewer services running smoothly. Leverage the many payment and account management options to take control of your utility billing. Consistent payments show you value an essential community resource – water!