How to Pay Your CenterPoint Energy Bill

Paying your energy bill on time each month is an important part of being a responsible CenterPoint Energy customer. While you have several options for making a payment, understanding the ins and outs of paying online can help ensure your payment processes smoothly each month This article will provide a comprehensive guide to paying your CenterPoint Energy bill online, including creating an account, making one-time payments, setting up autopay, and more

Getting Started with Online Account Access

The first step to paying your bill online is to set up online account access with CenterPoint Energy. This allows you to view your account details, make payments, set payment reminders, and more.

You will need a valid email address and your CenterPoint Energy account number to make an online account. Click on “My Account” in the upper right corner of CenterPoint Energy’s website. Then pick your state, click “Sign In,” and then click “Create an Account.” “.

You’ll need to enter your account number, email address, and make a password. Accept the rules of use and prove who you are by sending an email confirmation. Once confirmed you’ll have full access to your account online.

Making One-Time Payments

Once you’ve created your online account, making one-time bill payments is quick and easy. Just log into your account and select “Make a Payment” from the menu.

You’ll see how much money is in your account and when your next payment is due. Type in the payment amount (your balance or a part of it) and pick the way you want to pay.

CenterPoint Energy accepts online payments through credit/debit cards, checking accounts, and savings accounts. Just enter your payment details and submit. Your payment will be immediately processed.

You can also opt to “Pay as a Guest” if you prefer not to create an online account. Just enter your account number, balance, and payment details as prompted to make your one-time payment.

Setting Up Autopay

For added convenience, you can enroll in autopay to have your bill paid automatically each month directly from your bank account.

To do this, go to your CenterPoint Energy online account and click on “AutoPay” in the menu. Choose the bank account you want to use for payments, pick a date for each month’s payment, and confirm that you want to join.

Now your bill will be paid automatically on the date selected so you never miss a payment! You can cancel or change your autopay option at any time through your online account.

Paying Your Bill Without an Online Account

If you prefer not to create an online account, you can still pay your bill through other convenient methods:

• By phone: Call 1-800-227-1376 to make a one-time payment over the phone using a credit card or checking account.

• By mail: Send a check or money order payable to CenterPoint Energy to the payment mailing address listed on your bill. Allow 5 business days for delivery.

• In person: Bring your payment to an authorized pay station location to pay your bill in cash or with a debit/credit card.

• Automatic bank draft: Complete an automatic bank draft authorization form to have your payment automatically deducted from your bank account each month.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to have your CenterPoint Energy account number handy so your payment is properly credited to your account.

Payment Assistance Programs

If you are ever struggling to pay your energy bill on time, CenterPoint Energy offers several payment assistance programs based on need, including:

• Bill payment extensions
• Deferred payment plans
• Budget billing to even out payments
• Energy efficiency rebates to lower usage/bills
• Payment assistance for qualifying low-income customers

Be sure to contact their customer service team to discuss which programs you may be eligible for if paying your bill becomes difficult.

Avoid Late Fees and Disconnection

To avoid late fees and potential service disconnection, always pay your CenterPoint Energy bill in full by the due date listed. Late fees are typically 5% of your balance or a minimum $10 charge.

If your account becomes past due, you’ll receive a disconnection notice with the shut off date – usually 15 days past your due date. To avoid disconnection, pay the overdue amount as soon as possible. Keep in mind same day or weekend payment options are limited.

Setting up autopay is the best way to avoid late payments and fees. But if you miss a payment, contact CenterPoint immediately to make arrangements and avoid service interruptions.

Reviewing Your Bill and Usage

One key tip for avoiding high bills is to regularly review your CenterPoint Energy account online. Under the “My Usage” tab, you can view your daily electric and natural gas usage and see how your current bill compares to previous ones.

If you notice spikes in usage, you can take steps like adjusting your thermostat temperature, unplugging appliances, and addressing any leaks. This can help lower your bill.

Under the “My Bill” section, you can view your current bill summary and compare it to previous bills to ensure the charges are accurate. Notify CenterPoint Energy immediately if you find any discrepancies.

Regularly monitoring your usage and bill details can prevent surprising charges on your monthly bill.

Changing Your Billing Date

If needed, you can request to change your CenterPoint Energy billing date. This can help align your bill with paydays or a timeframe that works better for your budget.

To change your bill date, contact CenterPoint’s customer service team. Provide them your preferred new billing date at least 5 business days before your next bill is set to generate. The change takes 1-2 billing cycles to fully take effect.

Know that changing billing dates can result in a stub period bill, meaning a shorter or longer bill to reset your cycle. But this can be worthwhile to get your payment scheduled aligned properly.

Closing Your CenterPoint Account

If you’re moving or otherwise need to close your CenterPoint Energy account, there are a few steps to take. First, notify CenterPoint at least 3 business days before you need service ended and provide them a forwarding address.

You’ll receive a final bill for your closing balance, which needs to be paid immediately. Make sure any autopay or automatic bank drafts are cancelled going forward.

And remember that you are responsible for paying any portion of a bill left over after your final meter reading. This prevents you being sent to collections for an unpaid utility bill.

Closing your account properly ensures you pay your final balance while also alerting CenterPoint to turn off service at the property on the appropriate date.

Key Takeaways for Paying Your Bill

• Set up online account access to enable online payments, autopay, and account management.

• Make one-time payments through your online account, by phone, mail, or in person.

• Enroll in autopay to avoid late fees and free yourself from payment hassles.

• Review your usage and bill details regularly to catch excessive charges.

• Contact CenterPoint immediately if you are struggling to make a payment.

• Always pay your bill in full by the due date to avoid late fees or disconnection.

• Notify CenterPoint promptly when you need to close your account to avoid outstanding charges.

Paying your CenterPoint Energy bill doesn’t have to be a chore each month. By knowing your online account options, payment choices, and billing details, you can effectively manage your account and make timely payments. This ensures you keep your gas and electric service uninterrupted.