How to Pay Your RGE Bill by Credit Card – A Simple Guide

Paying your Rochester Gas & Electric (RGE) bill by credit card is a convenient option offered by the utility company. With the ability to make quick payments online, over the phone, or at authorized in-person locations, RGE credit card payment provides flexibility for busy customers. This article will explain everything you need to know about paying your RGE utility bill with a credit or debit card.

Overview of Paying RGE Bills by Credit Card

RGE allows customers to pay their gas and electric bills by Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express credit/debit cards. You can make one-time payments or set up recurring automatic monthly payments. The payment will typically post to your account within 1-3 business days.

To pay by credit card, you’ll need your RGE account number and billing zip code handy You’ll enter your credit card details on RGE’s secure payment site and receive a confirmation number when the transaction is complete Payments can be made online, by phone, or at authorized walk-in payment locations.

Credit card bill payments let you earn points, miles, or cashback rewards. It’s also useful if you want to keep RGE billing separate from your bank account or if you need evidence of payment. Just note credit card processing fees which average 2.5-3%.

Paying Online

The easiest way to pay your RGE utility bill by credit card is online through your RGE account dashboard. You can make one-time payments as a guest without logging in or by registering for an online account. Here are the steps:

• Go to www.rge.com and click “Pay Bill” at the top.
• Select “Pay By Credit Card” and enter your RGE account number and billing zip code.
• Enter your credit card details and review the payment amount before submitting.
• You’ll receive a confirmation number when the payment is complete.

If you have recurring autopay set up, your credit card on file will automatically be charged each month for the amount due. You can update your autopay card details anytime through your online account.

Paying by Phone

To pay your RGE energy bill over the phone with a credit or debit card, call RGE at 1-800-295-7323. You’ll need to provide your account number, billing zip code, and credit card details.

After the automated system verifies your information, follow the prompts to authorize the payment amount Make sure to record the confirmation number at the end for your records

Phone payments are available 24/7 through the automated phone system. If you need to speak with a customer service agent, call during regular business hours.

Paying In Person

You can pay your RGE utility bill in person with a credit or debit card at authorized payment locations in your area These include

• 7-Eleven
• Ace Cash Express
• CVS Pharmacy
• Dollar General
• Family Dollar
• Kum & Go
• Speedway
• Walgreens
• Walmart

Bring your latest RGE bill or know your account number. The cashier will enter your payment details into their system and provide a receipt. In-person payments allow you to pay with cash if you don’t have a credit card.

Payment Processing Timelines

Allow 1-3 business days for RGE credit card payments to post to your account. Make sure to pay at least 3 days before your due date to avoid late fees.

Online and phone credit card payments are typically processed within 24 hours. Mailed payments take the longest at 5-7 days.

You can check your account online to see when your last payment was received. If your payment is delayed, call RGE customer service.

Credit Card Payment Tips & Reminders

Here are some tips to make paying your RGE utility bill by credit card easy:

• Set up autopay from your card to avoid late fees. You can update your card anytime.
• Pay a few days early to allow for processing time.
• Opt-in for paperless billing and payment reminders.
• Earn rewards points or cashback by paying your bill with a rewards card.
• Keep your card payment separate from your checking account.
• Watch out for credit card processing fees which average 2.5-3%.
• Record confirmation numbers for reference.
• Contact RGE if your payment doesn’t post within 3 business days.

Can I Use a Prepaid Debit Card?

Yes, you can pay your RGE bill with prepaid debit cards as long as they have a Visa, Mastercard, Discover or Amex logo. This includes reloadable prepaid cards and temporary “rapid refund” cards from tax preparers.

Make sure your prepaid debit card has enough funds to cover the payment amount plus any transaction fees. The payment will be declined if your card balance is insufficient.

Are There Payment Plan Options?

If you’re having trouble paying your RGE bill on time, they offer payment arrangements and assistance programs.

The Budget Billing plan lets you pay a fixed amount each month to even out seasonal changes in your bill amount. RGE also has payment assistance programs like HEAP and EAP for qualifying customers.

You can request a payment extension or set up a deferred payment plan tailored to your situation. This allows you to pay the outstanding balance over an agreed timeframe. Talk to RGE customer service about your options.

Avoid Late Fees with Autopay

The easiest way to avoid late fees and payment hassles is to enroll in RGE Autopay. It automatically deducts your monthly bill amount from a bank account or credit card on file.

To set up free Autopay:

• Login to your RGE account
• Under Billing & Payments select Start/Stop Autopay
• Enter your preferred payment method
• Pick a payment date at least 3 days before your due date

Autopay gives you peace of mind knowing your bill is always paid on time. You can cancel or change your payment method at any time through your online account.

Get Payment Help from RGE

If you need help understanding your RGE utility bill or setting up payments, contact customer service at 1-800-743-2110.

RGE has agents available by phone Monday-Friday from 7am-7pm to:

• Explain charges on your bill
• Make payment arrangements
• Set up autopay or paperless billing
• Troubleshoot account access issues
• Answer questions about payment policies

You can also access FAQs and how-to guides on the RGE website for self-service bill pay help. Reach out to RGE anytime you need assistance paying your gas and electric bill.