San Antonio Water System bill pay basics

San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is the public utility that provides water and wastewater service to San Antonio and surrounding areas. You can pay your SAWS bill through their website, by phone, by mail, or in person at payment centers. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need to pay and whether you want to set up recurring payments.

SAWS bills arrive monthly and show your water usage, charges, and due date. The due date is typically 20 days after the bill is issued. If you pay after the due date, SAWS adds a late fee. Understanding your payment options helps you avoid missed payments and choose the method that fits your routine.

Key Takeaways

  • SAWS offers online payment through their website at saws.org, by phone at 210-704-7297, and by mail to their payment processing center.
  • Online payments through SAWS typically process the same day if submitted before 5 p.m. Central Time on a business day, or the next business day otherwise.
  • You can set up automatic recurring payments through the SAWS website so your bill is paid on the same date each month without you taking action.
  • Mailed payments should be sent at least 10 days before your due date to arrive in time, and you should include your account number on the check or money order.
  • SAWS charges no fee for online payments made directly through their website, but third-party payment processors may charge a convenience fee.

Paying online through the SAWS website

The fastest way to pay a SAWS bill is through their official website at saws.org. Click the "Pay My Bill" link on the homepage, enter your account number (found on your bill), and follow the prompts to enter your payment amount and banking information. You can pay with a debit card, credit card, or bank account transfer.

Payments submitted before 5 p.m. Central Time on a business day are processed the same day. Payments submitted after 5 p.m. or on weekends and holidays are processed the next business day. SAWS does not charge a fee for payments made directly through their website, though your bank may charge a fee if you use a credit card.

After you submit your payment, SAWS sends a confirmation number to your email address. Keep this number for your records. The payment appears on your account within one to two business days.

Setting up automatic monthly payments

If you want your SAWS bill paid the same way every month without remembering to log in, you can set up automatic payments through the SAWS website. Log into your account, go to the "Autopay" section, and choose your payment method (bank account or card) and the date you want the payment to happen each month.

Automatic payments are deducted on the date you choose, so pick a date after you receive your bill but before the due date. Most people choose a date around the 15th of the month. You can change or cancel automatic payments at any time through your SAWS account.

Automatic payments reduce the risk of late fees because the payment happens without you having to remember. If your bill amount varies month to month (which it does for most households, depending on water usage), SAWS will deduct the full amount due each month.

Paying by phone or mail

You can pay your SAWS bill by phone by calling 210-704-7297. Have your account number and payment method ready. Phone payments are processed the same day if you call before 5 p.m. Central Time on a business day. SAWS does not charge a fee for phone payments.

To pay by mail, write a check or money order for the amount due and mail it to the address shown on your bill. Include your account number on the check so SAWS can match the payment to your account. Mail your payment at least 10 days before the due date to allow time for delivery and processing. Payments received after the due date incur a late fee.

In-person payment is also an option. SAWS has payment centers in San Antonio where you can pay with cash, check, or card. Visit saws.org and search for "payment centers" to find the location nearest you and its hours.

Late fees and what happens if you miss a payment

If your payment does not arrive by the due date shown on your bill, SAWS adds a late fee to your next bill. The amount of the late fee varies depending on your bill amount. Paying late also affects your credit if SAWS reports the debt to a credit bureau, though this typically happens only after several months of non-payment.

If you fall behind on payments, SAWS may shut off your water service. The utility typically sends a notice before disconnection, giving you time to pay or contact them about a payment plan. If your water is shut off, you must pay the full amount owed plus a reconnection fee to restore service.

If you are having trouble paying your bill, contact SAWS directly at 210-704-7297 to discuss your options. They may be able to work out a payment arrangement or direct you to information programs in San Antonio.

Third-party payment processors and convenience fees

Some people pay their SAWS bill through third-party payment processors like PayPal, Venmo, or other online payment services. These processors may charge a convenience fee on top of your bill amount. SAWS does not charge this fee — it comes from the third-party service.

To avoid convenience fees, pay directly through the SAWS website or by phone. If you use a third-party processor, the fee is usually a percentage of your bill amount, so it costs more on larger bills. Check the fee amount before you confirm the payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my SAWS account number?

Your account number appears on your water bill in the upper right corner or near the top of the page. It is a series of numbers unique to your property. You need this number to pay online, by phone, or to set up automatic payments.

What if I pay online but my payment does not show up on my account?

Online payments typically appear within one to two business days. If more than two business days have passed since you submitted your payment and it still does not show, contact SAWS at 210-704-7297 with your confirmation number. They can look up the payment and confirm it was received.

Can I change the date my automatic payment is deducted?

Yes. Log into your SAWS account, go to the Autopay section, and edit the payment date. The change takes effect on your next billing cycle. If you need to change the date before your next payment, contact SAWS by phone to make the change when ready.

What happens if I overpay my SAWS bill?

If you pay more than the amount due, SAWS credits the extra amount to your next bill. You can also request a refund by contacting SAWS at 210-704-7297, though this takes longer than letting the credit explore to your next month.

Is there a way to reduce my SAWS bill if I use a lot of water?

SAWS offers a conservation program and rebates for water-efficient appliances and fixtures. Visit saws.org to learn about rebates for toilets, showerheads, and irrigation systems. Reducing water usage lowers your bill and helps conserve water in the San Antonio area.