Call PG&E's automated payment line at 1-800-743-5000
The fastest way to pay a PG&E bill by phone is to call their automated payment system at 1-800-743-5000. You do not need to speak to a representative. The system accepts payments 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can complete the transaction in about five minutes.
Have your bill or account number ready before you call. The automated system will ask you to enter it using your phone keypad. You will also need a checking account, savings account, or debit card to process the payment. Credit cards are not accepted for phone payments.
The system will confirm your payment amount and the date the money will be withdrawn from your account. Most payments process the same business day if you call before 5 p.m. Pacific time. If you call after 5 p.m. or on a weekend, the payment typically processes the next business day.
Key Takeaways
- PG&E's automated phone payment line is 1-800-743-5000 and operates around the clock without requiring you to speak to anyone.
- You need your account number and a bank account or debit card; credit cards cannot be used for phone payments.
- Payments made before 5 p.m. Pacific time on a business day usually process the same day.
- If you need to speak with a representative instead of using the automated system, call the same number and select the option to speak with an agent.
What information you need before calling
Gather these details before you dial so the call moves quickly. You will need your PG&E account number, which appears on the front of your bill. If you do not have your bill handy, you can look up your account number on the PG&E website by logging into your account.
You will also need the payment amount you want to send. The automated system will tell you what you owe, but having the number ready saves time. Finally, have your bank account or debit card information available. The system will ask for your routing number and account number if you are paying from a bank account, or your card number and expiration date if you are using a debit card.
When payments process and how long they take
The timing of your payment depends on when you call and what day of the week it is. If you call during business hours (before 5 p.m. Pacific time) on a weekday, your payment typically posts to your account the same day. If you call after 5 p.m. or on a weekend or holiday, the payment processes the next business day.
PG&E does not charge a fee for phone payments made through their automated system. However, your bank may charge a fee if you do not have sufficient funds in your account when the payment is withdrawn. Check your account balance before you call to avoid overdraft charges.
Speaking with a representative instead of using automation
If you prefer to speak with someone or have questions about your bill, call the same number — 1-800-743-5000 — and select the option to speak with a customer service representative. Wait times vary depending on call volume, and you may be on hold for several minutes during peak hours.
A representative can answer questions about your charges, discuss payment plans if you are behind on your bill, or help you set up automatic payments so you do not have to call each month. They can also process your payment over the phone if you prefer not to use the automated system.
Setting up automatic payments to avoid calling each month
If you pay your PG&E bill the same way every month, you can set up automatic payments through the PG&E website or by calling customer service. Automatic payments withdraw money from your bank account on a date you choose, usually around your bill due date. This means you will not have to remember to call or pay online each month.
To set up automatic payments, log into your PG&E account online and go to the billing section, or call 1-800-743-5000 and ask a representative to enroll you. You can change or cancel automatic payments at any time. This option works well if your bill amount stays roughly the same each month, though you should still check your bill occasionally to catch any unusual charges.
Other ways to pay if you cannot use the phone
Phone payment is one option, but PG&E offers other methods if that does not work for you. You can pay online through the PG&E website using your bank account or debit card. You can also pay in person at a PG&E payment center, by mail, or through third-party payment services like Western Union or MoneyGram.
If you are struggling to pay your full bill, PG&E has programs that may help. You can discuss payment plans with a representative by calling 1-800-743-5000. Some customers also may have access to for bill assistance programs based on household income, though you will need to contact PG&E directly to learn what programs may be available in your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my PG&E bill by phone with a credit card?
No. PG&E's phone payment system only accepts payments from checking accounts, savings accounts, or debit cards. If you want to pay with a credit card, you will need to pay online through the PG&E website instead.
What if I call after 5 p.m. or on a weekend?
The automated payment system is available 24/7, so you can call anytime. However, payments made after 5 p.m. Pacific time or on weekends will not process until the next business day. If your bill is due soon, call during business hours to ensure same-day processing.
Is there a fee for paying by phone?
PG&E does not charge a fee for phone payments made through their automated system. However, your bank may charge an overdraft fee if you do not have enough money in your account when the payment is withdrawn.
Can I change my payment after I call?
If you realize you made a mistake right after calling, contact PG&E customer service immediately at 1-800-743-5000. If the payment has not yet processed, a representative may be able to cancel or adjust it. Once the payment has posted to your account, you will need to contact your bank to dispute it.
What if I do not have my account number?
You can find your account number on your PG&E bill, on the PG&E website if you have an online account, or by calling customer service at 1-800-743-5000. The automated payment system can also look up your account if you provide your service address instead.