Where to pay your Houston water bill

Houston's water service is provided by the City of Houston Public Utilities, and you can pay your bill through several channels. The fastest way is online at houstontx.gov/utilities, where you can pay with a debit card, credit card, or bank account. You can also pay by phone at 713-207-2700, by mail to the address printed on your bill, or in person at any Houston Public Utilities payment location.

If you pay online or by phone, the payment posts to your account when ready, though it may take a few business days to show on your next bill. Mail payments take longer — typically 7 to 10 business days from the date you mail it — so if your bill is due soon, mail is not your best option. In-person payments at a Public Utilities office are processed the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You can pay online at houstontx.gov/utilities with a debit or credit card, or by phone at 713-207-2700.
  • Online and phone payments post when ready; mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to reach the city.
  • If you are behind on your bill, contact Public Utilities before the due date to ask about payment plans or hardship programs.
  • Your account number appears on your bill and is required for phone or online payments.

Setting up automatic payments

Automatic payments remove the need to remember your due date each month. Through the Houston Public Utilities website, you can set up a recurring payment from your bank account on a date you choose — usually the due date or a few days before. The payment will deduct automatically each billing cycle unless you cancel it.

Automatic payments from a bank account are free. If you use a credit or debit card for automatic payments, the city charges a convenience fee (the amount varies by card type and is shown before you confirm). Many people choose automatic bank account payments to avoid the fee.

What to do if you cannot pay on time

If you know your payment will be late, call Public Utilities at 713-207-2700 before your due date. The city offers payment plans that spread your balance over several months, which can prevent a late fee or service disconnection. You will need to discuss your situation with a representative to set up a plan that fits your budget.

The city also has a Utility information Program for households with low income. This program can help cover part of your bill if you meet income limits based on household size. You can learn more about this program by calling 713-207-2700 or visiting the Public Utilities website.

Understanding your bill and due date

Your water bill shows your account number, the amount owed, and the due date — usually 20 days from the bill date. The bill also breaks down your charges: water usage (measured in hundred-cubic-foot units), wastewater treatment, and any taxes or fees. If you use more water than usual, your bill will be higher that month.

The due date is printed clearly on the front of your bill. If you pay after this date, the city charges a late fee. If your bill remains unpaid for about 30 days past the due date, the city may send a notice of disconnection, meaning your water service could be shut off.

Paying from outside Houston

If you have moved away but still have an active Houston water account, you can pay online or by phone using the same methods as above. You can also mail a check to the address on your bill. When you move permanently, contact Public Utilities to close your account and request a final bill.

If you are paying someone else's bill (such as a family member's), you will need their account number. The city does not require you to be the account holder to make a payment, but you must provide the correct account number so the payment reaches the right account.

Late fees and service disconnection

A late fee is added to your bill if payment arrives after the due date. The amount of the late fee is shown on your bill. If your account remains unpaid for about 30 days past the due date, Public Utilities sends a disconnection notice. This notice gives you a short window — usually 10 days — to pay the full amount owed or set up a payment plan before service is shut off.

Once your water is disconnected, you must pay the full balance plus a reconnection fee to restore service. This can be expensive, so contacting the city as soon as you know you will be late is much better than waiting for a disconnection notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my bill with a credit card online?

Yes, you can pay with a credit card at houstontx.gov/utilities, but the city charges a convenience fee. Paying with a debit card or bank account also works, and bank account payments have no fee.

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

Online payments post to your account right away, though it may take a few business days to appear on your next bill statement. If you are worried about a late fee, pay at least a few days before your due date.

What happens if I miss my due date?

A late fee is added to your bill. If you remain unpaid for about 30 days, the city sends a disconnection notice. Call 713-207-2700 before the due date to set up a payment plan and avoid these penalties.

Can I set up a payment plan if I owe a lot?

Yes. Call Public Utilities at 713-207-2700 to discuss your situation. The city works with customers to create payment plans based on what you can afford each month.

Is there help if I cannot pay my water bill?

The city has a Utility information Program for low-income households. Call 713-207-2700 or visit houstontx.gov/utilities to learn whether you may be able to receive help with your bill.