Where to send your water payment in Houston

Houston's water and sewer bills are issued by the City of Houston Public Utilities, and you can pay them online, by phone, by mail, or in person. The city does not require you to use a specific payment method — you choose what works for your situation. Online payment through the city's website is the fastest way to confirm your payment was received the same day.

If you pay by mail, send your check or money order to the address printed on your bill. The city's mailing address for payments is typically listed in the bottom section of your bill stub. Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to post to your account, so if your due date is soon, use online or phone payment instead to avoid a late fee.

You can also pay in person at any Houston Public Utilities payment location. The main office is at 1002 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77002, and several satellite offices operate throughout the city during business hours. Bring your bill or account number and payment in cash, check, or debit card.

Key Takeaways

  • Houston Public Utilities accepts online payments through its website, which post the same day you submit them.
  • Phone payments and in-person payments at city offices are available if you do not want to pay online.
  • Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to reach the city, so use them only if your due date is more than two weeks away.
  • Your bill shows your account number, due date, and the amount owed — have these details ready before you pay.

Paying online through the city website

The City of Houston Public Utilities website has a payment portal where you enter your account number and the amount you want to pay. You do not need to create a login or password — you can pay as a guest. The portal accepts debit cards and bank account transfers (ACH payments). Credit card payments are not accepted through the city's system, though some third-party payment processors may offer that option for an additional fee.

When you pay online, the transaction posts when ready, and you receive a confirmation number. Save this number in case you need to dispute the payment or verify it later. If you set up a recurring payment, the city will deduct the same amount on the same day each month, though you can cancel or change the amount at any time before the payment date.

Paying by phone or automatic bank draft

You can pay your Houston water bill by phone by calling the Public Utilities customer service line. A representative will take your account number, the amount you want to pay, and your payment method (debit card or bank account). Phone payments are processed the same day and you receive a confirmation number.

Automatic bank draft (also called autopay) withdraws money directly from your checking or savings account on a date you choose each month. To set this up, you provide your bank account number and routing number to the city. Once enrolled, you do not have to remember to pay each month, though you remain responsible for making sure the amount is correct and your account has sufficient funds.

Payment important date and late fees

Your water bill shows a due date, usually 20 to 25 days after the bill is issued. If payment is not received by that date, the city charges a late fee. The late fee amount depends on your bill balance and is added to your next bill. Continued non-payment can result in service disconnection after 60 days of non-payment, though the city typically sends notices before that happens.

If you cannot pay by the due date, contact Houston Public Utilities to discuss a payment plan. The city may allow you to spread the payment over several months rather than disconnecting service. Payment plans are not automatic — you must request one before your account becomes seriously past due.

What information you need to pay

To pay your water bill, you need your account number, which appears on your bill statement. You also need to know the amount due and the due date. If you are paying online or by phone, have your payment method ready — either your debit card number or your bank account and routing numbers.

If you have lost your bill, you can find your account number by calling Houston Public Utilities customer service or by logging into the city's online account portal if you have set up a login. The account number is usually a series of numbers printed in the upper right corner of your bill.

Paying a bill for a property you do not live in

If you own rental property or a second home in Houston, you can pay the water bill for that address using the same methods available to residential customers. You will need the account number for that specific property. If you manage multiple properties, each one has its own account number and bill, so you must pay them separately.

If you are the property manager or authorized representative but not the account holder, you may be able to set up a third-party payment arrangement with the city. Contact Houston Public Utilities to ask whether you can authorize another person to pay the bill on your behalf or receive payment reminders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my Houston water bill with a credit card?

The City of Houston Public Utilities website does not accept credit cards directly. However, some third-party payment processors allow credit card payments for a fee. Check whether the fee is worth it for your situation, as it will be added to your total payment.

What happens if I pay late?

A late fee is added to your account. If payment remains overdue for 60 days, the city may disconnect your water service. You will receive notices before disconnection, so contact the city when ready if you fall behind to discuss a payment plan.

How long does it take for a mailed check to show up on my account?

Mail payments typically take 7 to 10 business days to post. If your due date is within two weeks, use online or phone payment instead to may support the city receives it on time and avoids a late fee.

Can I set up automatic payments and then cancel them later?

Yes. You can cancel automatic payments at any time before the scheduled payment date by contacting Houston Public Utilities or through the online portal if you have a login. You remain responsible for paying any balance that is not covered by automatic payments.

What if I paid my bill but it still shows as overdue?

Contact Houston Public Utilities with your confirmation number or proof of payment. Mail and phone payments can take several days to post, so verify the payment date and allow time for processing. If the payment was sent more than 10 days ago and still has not posted, ask the city to investigate.