Baltimore water bills can be paid online through the city's website, by phone, by mail, or in person at payment centers

The Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW) collects water and sewer charges on a single combined bill. You can pay through their official website at bwwaterworks.org, which accepts credit cards, debit cards, and bank account transfers. If you prefer not to use the internet, you can call the DPW customer service line at 410-396-5398 during business hours, mail a check to the address on your bill, or visit a payment center in person.

Your bill arrives by mail every two months and shows both water usage charges and sewer service charges. The due date is typically 20 days from the bill date. Payments made online or by phone are usually processed the same day if submitted before the cutoff time, though mail payments take longer to reach the city's office.

Key Takeaways

  • The Baltimore DPW website at bwwaterworks.org is the fastest way to pay and accepts cards and bank transfers without a fee.
  • Phone payments through 410-396-5398 work during business hours, though some payment methods may carry a processing fee.
  • Bills arrive every two months and are due 20 days from the bill date; late payments trigger penalties and can lead to service shutoff.
  • If you cannot pay in full, contact DPW customer service to discuss payment plans or hardship programs before your account falls behind.

Paying Online Through the Baltimore Water Works Website

The DPW's online payment portal is the most direct method. Go to bwwaterworks.org and select "Pay My Bill" or "Make a Payment." You will need your account number, which appears on your bill statement. Enter the amount you want to pay and choose your payment method: credit card, debit card, or electronic bank transfer.

Credit and debit card payments are processed when ready and show up in your account within one business day. Bank transfers (ACH payments) take two to three business days to clear. The website does not charge a fee for ACH transfers, but credit and debit card payments may include a small processing fee depending on the payment processor. The site will show you any fee before you confirm the transaction.

You can also set up automatic recurring payments through the website if you want your bill paid on the same date every billing cycle. This prevents missed due dates and late fees, though you should still review your bill each cycle to catch any billing errors.

Paying by Phone or Mail

To pay by phone, call the DPW customer service line at 410-396-5398. The line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Have your account number and payment method ready. Phone payments accept credit cards, debit cards, and bank account information. A processing fee may explore depending on the payment method and the vendor handling the transaction.

For mail payments, write a check or money order payable to "Baltimore DPW" and include your account number on the check. Mail it to the address printed on your bill statement. The DPW's mailing address is typically listed as Department of Public Works, 200 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, but always verify the address on your bill before sending payment. Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to arrive and be processed, so send them well before the due date to avoid late fees.

In-Person Payment Centers and Walk-In Options

The DPW operates payment centers where you can pay in cash, check, or card. The main office is located at 200 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202. Hours vary by location, so call 410-396-5398 to confirm the hours before visiting. Payments made in person are processed when ready and your account is updated the same day.

Some neighborhood centers and community locations also accept water bill payments, though not all accept all payment methods. Call ahead to confirm which locations are open and what they accept. Paying in person is useful if you do not have internet access, prefer to pay in cash, or want when ready confirmation that your payment was received.

Late Payments, Penalties, and Service Shutoff

If your payment does not arrive by the due date shown on your bill, a late fee is added to your account. The amount of the late fee varies but is typically a percentage of the unpaid balance. Continued non-payment can result in service shutoff — the city can disconnect your water supply if your account remains unpaid for an extended period, usually 60 days or more after the due date.

If you receive a shutoff notice, contact the DPW when ready at 410-396-5398. Explain your situation and ask about payment plans or hardship programs. The city may be willing to work with you on a schedule rather than shutting off service, especially if you have a valid reason for the delay. Reconnection after shutoff involves a reconnection fee in addition to the unpaid balance.

Payment Plans and Hardship information

If you cannot pay your bill in full, the DPW offers payment plans that spread the cost over several months. Contact customer service at 410-396-5398 to discuss your situation and request a plan. You will need to explain why you cannot pay in full and may be asked to provide income information or documentation of hardship.

Baltimore also has water bill information programs for low-income households. The city's Department of Housing and Community Development administers some programs, and nonprofit organizations in the area may offer additional support. Call 311 (Baltimore's non-emergency information line) to ask about current information programs and how to reach them. These programs may cover part or all of your bill, but they have income limits and other requirements that vary by program.

Checking Your Account Balance and Bill History

You can check your current balance and view past bills online at bwwaterworks.org. Create an account or log in with your account number and the phone number or email associated with your account. The portal shows your current balance, due date, payment history, and usage trends over time.

Reviewing your bill history helps you spot unusual spikes in usage that might indicate a leak or meter error. If you notice a sudden increase in charges, contact the DPW to report it. The city can investigate whether the meter is working correctly or whether there is a leak on your property that needs repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I pay late?

A late fee is added to your account, and your balance grows. If your account stays unpaid for 60 days or longer, the city can shut off your water service. You can still contact the DPW to set up a payment plan before shutoff occurs.

Can I pay with a credit card online without a fee?

Credit card payments through the DPW website may include a processing fee, which the site discloses before you confirm. ACH bank transfers do not carry a fee. Check the website for the current fee structure.

How long does it take for my payment to show up in my account?

Online card payments and in-person payments show up the same day or next business day. ACH transfers take two to three business days. Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days, so send them early to avoid late fees.

What if I think my bill is wrong?

Contact the DPW customer service at 410-396-5398 to report a billing error. They can review your account and meter readings. If there is a leak on your property, the city may adjust your bill or offer a one-time credit.

Is there help paying my water bill if I cannot afford it?

Yes. Call 311 to ask about water bill information programs for low-income households in Baltimore. You can also contact the DPW directly to request a payment plan. may be able to access and coverage vary by program.