EPB bills can be paid online through their website, by phone, by mail, or at authorized payment locations around Chattanooga

EPB (Electric Power Board of Chattanooga) offers several ways to pay your electric bill, and the fastest route depends on when you need the payment to post. Online payment through their website or mobile app reaches your account within one business day. Phone payments and in-person payments at authorized locations also process quickly. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days, so use it only if you have time before your due date.

Your bill shows a due date in the upper right corner. Payments received after that date may trigger a late fee, even if you have already sent the payment. The key is knowing which method works for your timeline and whether you want to set up automatic payments to avoid missing a due date altogether.

Key Takeaways

  • EPB's online payment portal and mobile app process payments within one business day and are the fastest option if you are paying close to your due date.
  • Phone payments can be made by calling EPB's customer service line, and the payment posts quickly, though you will need your account number and a payment method ready.
  • Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to post, so send them at least two weeks before your due date to avoid late fees.
  • Automatic payments through EPB's website remove the risk of missing a due date and can be set up or cancelled anytime without penalty.
  • Late fees apply to payments received after the due date shown on your bill, regardless of when you sent the payment.

Paying online through EPB's website or app

Go to EPB's website and log into your account using your username and password. If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one by entering your account number (found on your bill) and setting up a login. Once logged in, select "Pay My Bill" and enter the amount you want to pay.

EPB accepts payments by debit card, credit card, and bank account transfer. Credit card payments may carry a processing fee, which EPB will show you before you confirm the payment. Bank account transfers (ACH) typically have no fee. The payment posts to your account within one business day, so this method works well if your due date is coming up soon.

You can also download the EPB mobile app from your phone's app store and pay the same way. The app shows your current balance, usage history, and due date in one place, making it easy to check your account before paying.

Paying by phone

Call EPB's customer service line at 423-648-1372 to pay by phone. Have your account number and payment method (debit card, credit card, or bank account information) ready. A representative will walk you through the payment and confirm the amount and due date for posting.

Phone payments process quickly, usually within one business day. This method works well if you prefer speaking to someone or if you have questions about your bill while paying. There is no fee for paying by phone.

Paying by mail

Write a check or money order payable to EPB and mail it to the address shown on your bill. Include your account number on the check so EPB can match the payment to your account. Mail typically takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive and be processed, so send your payment at least two weeks before your due date.

Late fees apply to payments received after the due date, even if you mailed the check before that date. If you are cutting it close, use online or phone payment instead to ensure your payment posts on time.

Paying in person at authorized locations

EPB has authorized payment locations around Chattanooga where you can pay in person with cash, check, or debit card. These locations include some local businesses and utility payment centers. Check EPB's website for a current list of locations near you, as the list changes.

In-person payments post to your account within one business day. This method works well if you prefer handling cash or do not have online access. Call ahead to confirm the location's hours and accepted payment methods.

Setting up automatic payments to avoid late fees

Automatic payments remove the risk of missing a due date. Log into your EPB online account, go to "Billing" or "Payment Settings," and select "Enroll in AutoPay." Choose the date you want the payment to come out each month (usually your due date) and whether you want to pay your full bill or a set amount.

You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your online account without penalty. If your bill amount varies month to month, you can set up automatic payment for a fixed amount and pay any remaining balance separately, or you can authorize EPB to charge your full bill each month.

Automatic payments are deducted from your bank account or charged to your card on the date you choose. This method is especially useful if you travel, have an irregular schedule, or simply want one less thing to remember.

What to do if you cannot pay your full bill by the due date

If you are struggling to pay your bill, contact EPB before your due date to discuss your options. EPB may offer a payment plan that spreads your balance over several months, allowing you to avoid a late fee and service disconnection.

Some customers may also be may be able to access for bill assistance programs through local nonprofits or government agencies. EPB's website lists resources for customers facing hardship. Calling customer service at 423-648-1372 is the fastest way to learn what options are available for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for an online payment to show up on my EPB bill?

Online payments typically post within one business day. If you pay on a Friday evening, the payment may not show until Monday. Check your account the next business day to confirm the payment went through.

Is there a fee for paying my EPB bill online?

There is no fee for paying by bank account transfer (ACH). Credit and debit card payments may carry a processing fee, which EPB shows you before you confirm the payment. Phone and in-person payments have no fee.

Can I pay someone else's EPB bill if I have their account number?

Yes, you can pay another person's bill online or by phone if you have their account number. The payment will post to that account. You do not need to be the account holder to make a payment.

What happens if I pay after the due date?

A late fee will be added to your next bill if your payment is received after the due date shown on your bill. The late fee amount depends on your bill total. If you are paying late, contact EPB to ask about a payment plan or hardship assistance before your service is disconnected.

Can I set up automatic payments for a specific amount instead of my full bill?

Yes. When you enroll in AutoPay, you can choose to pay a fixed amount each month instead of your full bill. You would then pay any remaining balance separately when you receive your next bill.