Seattle Water Bill Pay & Leak Help
Use this guide when you need the official Seattle water bill portal, one-time payment, 24/7 pay-by-phone, payment center hours, start/stop service, past-due balance help, Utility Discount Program, PromisePay, leak adjustment, high-bill troubleshooting, 2026 water/sewer rates, or 24-hour water, sewer and drainage emergency routing.
Short path: pay through My Utilities or the official one-time payment page, call 206-684-3000 for customer service, call 877-398-3531 for 24/7 phone payment, call 206-684-5800 for disconnected/past-due water service, and call 206-386-1800 for water, sewer or drainage emergencies.
Fastest Answer for Each Seattle Utility Task
Use My Utilities for full account tools or one-time payment with account number and billing ZIP.
One-time paymentCall 877-398-3531 for 24-hour automated payment.
Payment optionsCall 206-684-3000 for payment plans or 206-684-5800 if disconnected.
Payment plansCall 206-386-1800 for 24-hour water, sewer or drainage emergencies.
Emergency contactsOfficial Seattle Water Bill Routing
| User need | Correct official route | Have ready | Important detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pay online with account access | My Utilities / Utility Services Website. | Seattle utility login, account number, payment method. | Use for recurring payment, paperless billing, single payments and full account management. |
| Pay without login | Official one-time payment page. | Account number and billing address ZIP code. | Works even if you receive a paper bill and do not want to create an online account. |
| Pay by phone | Call 877-398-3531. | Account number, payment method and confirmation note space. | 24/7 automated line for credit or debit card payment. |
| Ask billing/account question | Customer Service: 206-684-3000. | Account number, service address, billing ZIP, bill period, payment proof. | Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Interpretation available. |
| Disconnected / urgent past due balance | Credit and Collections: 206-684-5800. | Past-due amount, shutoff notice, payment proof, plan request. | Use when water has been disconnected or you need reconnection/payment-plan scheduling. |
| Start, stop or move account | My Utilities, Customer Service, or walk-in center. | Move date, service address, buyer name if sold, forwarding address. | Closing water service has a $60 meter reading fee; garbage/recycling/food-yard opening has a $10 setup fee. |
| Water, sewer or drainage emergency | Call 206-386-1800. | Exact address, issue type, flooding/back-up/leak details, callback number. | 24-hour emergency line; call 911 first for immediate life-safety danger. |
How to Pay a Seattle Water Bill Online
Start from Seattle.gov
Open the official Seattle Public Utilities Bills & Payments page before entering account details.
Choose login or one-time payment
Use My Utilities for paperless billing, recurring payment and account history. Use one-time payment with account number and billing ZIP if you just want to pay quickly.
Pick payment method
Seattle lists credit card, debit card and checking account number options for online payment. The City says it does not charge additional convenience fees for its listed payment methods.
Check if the bill includes electric
Seattle utility bills can include Seattle Public Utilities and Seattle City Light charges. Confirm whether the question is water/sewer/drainage/garbage, electricity, or both.
Save confirmation
Keep the confirmation number, payment date, amount, account number and payment method until the payment appears on the account.
Seattle Utility Bill Payment Options
My Utilities account
Best for recurring payments, paperless billing, full account tools and managing Seattle Public Utilities or Seattle City Light bills online.
One-time payment
Use account number and billing ZIP code. Good for quick payment without creating an online profile.
Pay by phone
Call 877-398-3531 for 24/7 automated payment. Call 206-684-3000 first if you need agent help before paying.
Walk-in payment
Residential and small business customers can pay combined utility bills at service centers with Visa, MasterCard or personal check.
Mail payment
Make checks payable to “City of Seattle” or “City of Seattle, Dept. of Finance” as directed, and use the official payment address on the current bill.
Payment plan
Payment plans are available for active SPU accounts. Residential customers with at least $100 past due may use PromisePay for long-term plans.
Start, Stop or Move Seattle Utility Service
Start or stop online
Current or former customers can start or stop water, sewer, electricity, garbage, recycling and food/yard waste services on the Utility Services Website.
Start or stop by phone
Call Customer Service at 206-684-3000, Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Walk-in route
Visit Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave, 4th Floor lobby entrance, or another walk-in center.
| Service action | Official detail | What to prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Close after property sale | If you sold the property, you need the buyer’s name to close the account. | Buyer name, closing date, forwarding address and service address. |
| Stop service | You are billed until the account is properly closed with effective date, meter reading and forwarding address. | Move-out date and forwarding address. |
| Water closing fee | Water meter reading fee for closing account: $60. | Budget for this if closing a water account. |
| Garbage/recycling/food-yard opening | Account setup fee for opening: $10. | Applies to garbage, recycling and food/yard account setup. |
| Refund request | Call Customer Service if account is closed and has credit balance after final bill. | Account holder details and forwarding address. |
Seattle Public Utilities Phone, Address and Hours
Customer Service
206-684-3000. Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Out of area: 800-862-1181.
Phone payment
877-398-3531. 24/7 toll-free automated payment line.
Emergency
206-386-1800. 24-hour water, sewer or drainage emergencies.
Downtown counter
700 5th Avenue, 4th Floor lobby entrance, Seattle, WA 98104. Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Quick contact badges
Customer Service: 206-684-3000 Pay by phone: 877-398-3531 Credit & Collections: 206-684-5800 Utility Discount: 206-684-0268 Emergency: 206-386-1800 Development Services: 206-684-3333 SPU Customer Email: SPUCustomerService@seattle.govSeattle Walk-In Payment Centers
| Location | Address | Phone | Typical hours listed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | 700 5th Avenue, 4th Floor lobby entrance | 206-684-3000 | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. |
| Ballard | 5604 22nd Ave NW | 206-684-4060 | Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Central District | 464 12th Ave | 206-684-4767 | Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Lake City | 12525 28th Ave NE, 2nd floor | 206-684-7526 | Tuesday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| North Service Center | 1300 N 97th Street | 206-615-0600 | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. |
| South Service Center | 3613 4th Avenue S | 206-386-4200 | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. |
| Southeast | 3815 S. Othello St. Ste 105 | 206-386-1931 | Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Southwest | 2801 SW Thistle St | 206-684-7417 | Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| University District | 4534 University Way NE | 206-684-7542 | Tuesday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
2026 Seattle Water and Sewer Rates: What Users Actually Need
CCF unit
Seattle uses CCF for water and sewer billing. One CCF equals 100 cubic feet, or about 748 gallons.
Common inside-Seattle base charge
For 2026, a 3/4" and smaller inside-Seattle water meter has a monthly base service charge of $21.35.
2026 sewer rate
The 2026 sewer rate is $20.18 per CCF. The typical monthly residential sewer bill is listed as $86.77.
| 2026 inside-Seattle residential item | Official amount | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Water base charge, 3/4" and smaller meter | $21.35 per month | Most common residential meter size. |
| Water off-peak usage | $5.82 per CCF | Applies Sept. 16–May 15. |
| Peak first tier | $5.98 per CCF | May 16–Sept. 15, up to 10 CCF in 60 days. |
| Peak second tier | $7.39 per CCF | May 16–Sept. 15, next 26 CCF in 60 days. |
| Peak third tier | $11.80 per CCF | May 16–Sept. 15, over 36 CCF in 60 days. |
| Sewer rate | $20.18 per CCF | Sewer is often a bigger bill driver than water. |
Past-Due Seattle Water Bill, Shutoff Notice and PromisePay
Past due balance
If the bill is past due, Seattle says the best first step is to call 206-684-3000.
Disconnected water service
If water service has been disconnected or you believe the balance was already paid, call 206-684-5800.
PromisePay long-term plan
Residential customers with a past-due balance of at least $100 may be eligible for a long-term PromisePay plan.
| Situation | Best route | Important note |
|---|---|---|
| You can pay within 60 days | Set up short-term payment plan through My Utilities or Customer Service. | Available for all customers. |
| You need more than 60 days | Use PromisePay portal for residential long-term plans. | PromisePay plans are no-fee, no-interest and no-late-fee according to SPU’s payment-plan page. |
| You received final shutoff notice | Pay in full, set up payment plan, or apply for emergency assistance immediately. | Seattle says the Final Shutoff Notice is the last notification before disconnection. |
| Water already shut off | Call 206-684-5800 to make payment, set up payment plan and schedule reconnection. | Same-day restoration is not guaranteed. |
| Water restored after shutoff | Run water for two minutes before using it. | Shutoff can loosen sediment and cause temporary discoloration. |
Utility Discount Program and Emergency Bill Assistance
Utility Discount Program
Income-eligible residential customers may receive a 50% discount on SPU water, sewer and solid waste bills and a 60% discount on Seattle City Light bills.
Emergency assistance
Emergency assistance may help income-eligible customers with urgent/shutoff notices or past-due balances.
Language help
Call 206-684-3000, press 5, then 5, and ask for someone who speaks your language.
Before applying for help
- Have your utility account number and service address ready.
- Know your household size and approximate income.
- Ask about both payment plans and bill assistance in the same call.
- Use official Seattle assistance pages; avoid outdated screenshots or social posts.
- Call 206-684-3000 for help applying or understanding options.
High Seattle Water Bill: Check These Before Calling
Leaks and running toilets
Water leaks, dripping faucets and constantly running toilets affect both water and sewer charges. Not all leaks can be seen or heard.
Estimated read
If your previous meter reading was estimated too low, the next actual bill can look high because it catches up on real usage.
Peak season
Seattle peak residential water rates apply May 16–Sept. 15 and use tiers. Outdoor water use can raise the rate.
| Bill driver | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Water usage | Compare current CCF with prior bills and same season last year. | Usage drives both water and sewer in many cases. |
| Sewer charge | Sewer is based on water used; 2026 rate is $20.18 per CCF. | Even a small leak can become expensive when sewer is added. |
| Solid waste | Container size, extra garbage, extra food/yard waste and overfilled lids. | Extra pickups during an 8-week billing cycle can add up. |
| Vacant property | Minimum service charges still apply unless property is completely unlivable. | SPU notes a vacant-property bill can still include minimum charges. |
| Electricity | Seattle City Light charges may appear on the combined bill. | High total may not be SPU water/sewer at all. |
Seattle Leak Adjustment Rules
Adjustment may be available
SPU offers billing adjustments for most types of leaks. Call Utility Account Services at 206-684-5800 to ask how to apply.
60-day repair deadline
Before adjustment, repairs must be completed within 60 days after receiving the initial high utility bill indicating a leak.
Underground leak inspection
If the leak is underground between meter and foundation, contact SPU before repair is covered and do not backfill before inspection/approval.
Leak adjustment evidence checklist
- Repair date and description of what failed.
- Photos of leak and completed repair.
- Plumber invoice, receipts or written explanation.
- For underground leak: call 206-684-5800 after repair is complete to schedule any required inspection.
- Remember: theft, vandalism and negligence are not eligible for leak adjustments.
Seattle Water, Sewer, Drainage and Quality Emergency Routing
Water/sewer/drainage emergency
Call 206-386-1800 24 hours a day for emergency water, sewer or drainage issues.
Water main / hydrant
Report water main leaks and fire hydrant repairs through the same emergency number: 206-386-1800.
Drinking water quality concern
Call 206-386-1800 or email DrinkingWater.Quality@seattle.gov.
What to tell SPU during an emergency call
- Exact address or nearest cross street.
- Issue type: water leak, no water, sewer backup, drainage problem, plugged storm drain or water quality concern.
- Whether water is entering a building, street, basement, yard or traffic area.
- Whether there is a safety risk, sinkhole, electrical danger or blocked roadway.
- Your name and callback number.
Local Seattle Tips That Prevent Water Bill Problems
Use one-time pay for speed, My Utilities for control
One-time payment is fastest with account number and ZIP. My Utilities is better for recurring payment, paperless billing, account history and start/stop requests.
Do not ignore final shutoff notice
Seattle says the Final Shutoff Notice is the last notification before disconnection. Call immediately if you cannot pay in full.
Check sewer when water use rises
Sewer charges are calculated from water usage and are much higher per CCF than water. A running toilet affects both.
Inspect summer outdoor use
Peak rates and outdoor watering can make a normal-looking usage increase feel like a very large bill.
For underground leaks, call before covering repair
If the leak is between the meter and foundation, SPU inspection may be required before repair is covered.
Combined bill confusion is common
SPU, Seattle City Light, solid waste and sewer items can appear on one bill. Match the line item to the correct department before calling.
Seattle Municipal Tower Map and Visit Planning
Use this map for the Downtown service counter. Check the official payment center page for closures and current hours before visiting.
Downtown service counter
Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Avenue, 4th Floor lobby entrance, Seattle, WA 98104.
Listed hours
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Customer Service by phone is Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Bring
Utility bill, account number, valid ID, payment method, service address, leak documentation, shutoff notice or move/closing details if relevant.
Official Seattle Water Bill Links
Seattle Water Department FAQs
Is Seattle Water Department the same as Seattle Public Utilities?
For Seattle water, sewer, drainage and solid waste billing, the official department is Seattle Public Utilities. Electricity is handled by Seattle City Light.
How do I pay my Seattle water bill online?
Use the official Seattle Public Utilities Bills & Payments page, My Utilities account, or the one-time payment page. One-time payment uses your account number and billing address ZIP code.
What is the Seattle Public Utilities customer service phone number?
Call 206-684-3000, Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Out-of-area toll-free number is 800-862-1181.
What is the Seattle water bill pay-by-phone number?
Call 877-398-3531 for 24/7 toll-free automated utility bill payment.
Does Seattle charge a convenience fee for utility bill payments?
Seattle Public Utilities says it does not charge additional convenience fees for listed payment methods. Confirm the final payment screen before submitting any payment.
Where is the Seattle utility service counter?
The Downtown service counter is at Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Avenue, 4th Floor lobby entrance, Seattle, WA 98104. Listed hours are Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
What number do I call for a Seattle water, sewer or drainage emergency?
Call 206-386-1800 for 24-hour water, sewer or drainage emergencies. Call 911 first for immediate life-safety danger.
Can I get a Seattle utility payment plan?
Yes. Short-term payment plans up to 60 days are available through SPU. Residential customers with at least $100 past due may be eligible for long-term PromisePay plans.
What should I do if my Seattle water is shut off for nonpayment?
Call 206-684-5800 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., to make payment, set up a plan and schedule reconnection. Same-day reconnection is not guaranteed.
Does Seattle offer utility bill discounts?
Yes. Income-eligible customers may qualify for the Utility Discount Program, which offers a 50% discount on SPU water, sewer and solid waste services and a 60% discount on Seattle City Light bills.
What are Seattle’s 2026 residential water rates?
For inside-Seattle residential customers, 2026 off-peak water usage is $5.82 per CCF. Peak tiers are $5.98, $7.39 and $11.80 per CCF depending on usage. A common 3/4" and smaller meter base charge is $21.35 per month.
Why is my Seattle utility bill high?
Common causes include leaks, dripping faucets, running toilets, estimated meter-read catch-up, summer peak water tiers, irrigation, higher sewer charges, garbage container size, extra garbage/yard waste, or Seattle City Light electric charges on the combined bill.
Can Seattle customers request a leak adjustment?
SPU offers adjustments for most leak types. Repairs must be completed within 60 days after the initial high utility bill indicating a leak. Call 206-684-5800, and do not cover underground repairs before any required inspection.
Does this page collect Seattle water bill payments?
No. This is an independent informational guide. Use official Seattle.gov, MyUtilities.Seattle.gov and official payment links for live payment, account access, payment plans, assistance and emergency routing.
Pay Your Water Bill Safely, Fix High Bills, Avoid Shutoff, Start Service and Find Official Utility Links
Use this free USA water bill assistant before paying online, calling utility billing, setting up AutoPay, checking a high bill, requesting leak help, starting or stopping service, handling a past due account, or searching for the official city utility portal.
What water bill problem do you need to solve?
Choose your situation. The tool will suggest the safest route, what to prepare, and which official page or office to check first.
Open the official city, county, water authority or utility website first. Do not enter account details into a random sponsored payment page.
If the bill is unusually high, compare usage, billing days, meter read type, toilet leaks, irrigation, late fees and leak adjustment rules before paying blindly.
Safe Water Bill Payment Route
Choose how you want to pay. This helps users avoid wrong portals, posting delays and urgent shutoff mistakes.
AutoPay / Bank Draft Setup Helper
Use this before enrolling in recurring payments so the first draft, current balance and payment date do not surprise you.
High Water Bill Review
Compare your normal bill and usage with the current bill. This gives a practical path before requesting a high bill review.
Leak Adjustment Proof Checklist
Use this before asking for a leak adjustment, high bill review, sewer adjustment or payment plan.
Past Due, Shutoff Notice and Reconnect Helper
Use this if your bill is late, you received a shutoff notice, service is off, or you need a payment plan.
Start, Stop or Transfer Water Service
Use this before moving, closing an account, starting service, transferring service or requesting a final bill.
Water Bill Cost Estimate
Estimate a simple monthly bill from base charge, water usage, sewer, stormwater, trash, service fees and late charges. Official tiered rates may be different.
Bill Dispute and Meter Reading Checklist
Use this before calling billing support about a meter reading, duplicate payment, wrong address, missing payment, estimated bill, or incorrect charge.
Official Water Bill Portal and Phone Finder
Enter city/utility and state to create safe searches for official water bill pay, phone payment, guest pay, AutoPay, start service, leak adjustment, reconnect, assistance and this site’s guide.
Official portal safety
- Use official city, county, authority or utility websites first.
- Check service address before paying.
- Save confirmation number and screenshot.
- Call the utility for shutoff or reconnect situations.
Best sitewide placement
Place this tool after the first payment section or before FAQs. It turns every water bill article into a practical help page, not only a list of links.
Important note
This tool gives educational guidance only. Always confirm payment portals, fees, shutoff rules, assistance programs, account balance and reconnection steps with the official utility.