The fastest way to pay is online through your account
Seattle City Light lets you pay your bill online, by phone, by mail, or in person. The online method is fastest — you can pay the same day you receive your bill, and the payment posts within one business day. Log into your account at cityofseattle.gov/utilities, click "Pay My Bill," and enter your account number (found on the top right of your bill) and the amount due.
You do not need to create an account to make a one-time payment. If you do not have an account set up, you can still pay online by entering your account number and service address. The site accepts debit cards, credit cards, and electronic bank transfers.
If you prefer not to use a computer or phone, you can pay by mail by sending a check or money order to the address printed on your bill. Allow 7 to 10 business days for a mailed payment to reach Seattle City Light and post to your account.
Key Takeaways
- Online payment through the Seattle City Light website is the fastest method and posts within one business day.
- You can pay by phone at 206-684-3000 during business hours, or by mail if you prefer not to use the website.
- Setting up automatic payments through your account prevents missed due dates and late fees.
- If you are having trouble paying, Seattle City Light offers payment plans and assistance programs for customers with low income.
Paying by phone or setting up automatic payments
To pay by phone, call Seattle City Light's customer service line at 206-684-3000. Have your account number and payment method ready. Phone payments are available during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
Automatic payments are the easiest way to ensure you never miss a due date. In your online account, go to "Billing & Payments" and select "Enroll in Auto Pay." You can choose to pay the full bill amount or a set dollar amount each month. Payments are deducted on the due date shown on your bill.
If you set up automatic payments, you can still log in anytime to see your current balance, view past bills, or make an extra payment if you want to pay ahead.
Understanding your bill and due date
Your Seattle City Light bill shows the amount due in the top right corner, along with the due date. Bills are typically due 20 days after the billing date. If you pay after the due date, a late fee is added to your next bill.
Your bill includes charges for electricity used, any taxes or fees, and credits for programs you may be enrolled in. The "Usage" section shows how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used during the billing period and breaks down your usage by day. This information helps you understand whether your usage is typical or higher than usual.
If your bill seems unusually high, check the usage graph first. A spike often means a change in weather, a new appliance, or a leak in your home's heating system. You can also compare your current bill to the same month last year — the bill itself shows a 12-month history at the bottom.
What to do if you cannot pay on time
If you cannot pay your bill by the due date, contact Seattle City Light before your account falls behind. The utility offers payment plans that let you spread your bill over several months. Call 206-684-3000 to discuss a plan with a representative.
Seattle City Light also runs the Utility Discount Program (UDP), which reduces monthly bills for households that meet income limits. The program covers electricity, water, and sewer services. You can learn about income thresholds and how to enroll by calling 206-684-3000 or visiting the Seattle City Light website.
If your service is disconnected due to non-payment, you can request reconnection by paying the full past-due amount plus a reconnection fee. However, reconnection requests made before 5 p.m. on a business day are usually processed the same day.
Paying in person at a payment location
Seattle City Light does not operate walk-in payment centers, but you can pay in person at select locations around the city. The main office is located at 700 5th Avenue, Suite 3200, Seattle, WA 98104. Payment hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Bring your account number and payment method (check, money order, debit card, or credit card).
Some local community centers and libraries also accept Seattle City Light payments. Check the utility's website or call 206-684-3000 to find a location near you.
Viewing and managing your account online
Creating an online account gives you access to your billing history, usage data, and payment options in one place. Go to cityofseattle.gov/utilities and click "Create Account" to sign up. You will need your account number (on your bill) and service address.
Once logged in, you can view your current and past bills as PDF files, see a 12-month usage graph, set up automatic payments, and receive email reminders before your bill is due. You can also update your contact information and request a paper bill if you prefer not to receive statements online.
If you forget your login information, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. Seattle City Light will send a password reset link to the email address on file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I pay late?
A late fee is added to your next bill if you pay after the due date. If your account remains unpaid for 30 days or more, Seattle City Light may disconnect your service. You can avoid disconnection by calling 206-684-3000 to set up a payment plan before your account falls too far behind.
Can I pay with a credit card online without an account?
Yes. On the Seattle City Light website, select "Pay Without Logging In" and enter your account number and service address. You can then pay with a debit card or credit card. A convenience fee may apply depending on your payment method.
How long does it take for my online payment to show up?
Online payments typically post to your account within one business day. If you pay after 5 p.m., the payment may not process until the next business day. Mailed payments take 7 to 10 business days to arrive and post.
Is there a way to lower my bill each month?
The Utility Discount Program (UDP) reduces bills for households that meet income limits. You can also lower your bill by reducing energy use — Seattle City Light's website has tips for weatherizing your home and using appliances more efficiently. Some customers also may have access to for rebates when they upgrade to energy-efficient heating or cooling systems.
What if I think my bill is wrong?
Check your usage graph on the bill or in your online account to see whether your consumption changed. If your usage looks normal but the charges seem incorrect, call 206-684-3000 to speak with a representative. They can review your account and explain any charges you do not recognize.