Chicago's Quick Pay system lets you pay your water bill online, by phone, or in person without setting up an account
The City of Chicago Department of Water Management runs a straightforward payment system called Quick Pay. You can use it to pay a single bill right away without creating a login or account. You will need your water account number (found on your bill) and a payment method — debit card, credit card, or bank account.
Quick Pay is fastest for one-time payments. If you pay the same bill multiple times a month or want to set up automatic payments, the full online account system (called the Customer Portal) is a better fit. Both routes go through the same city system, but they work differently.
Key Takeaways
- Quick Pay requires only your account number and a payment method — no login or account creation needed.
- You can pay online at the city's water payment portal, by phone at 311, or in person at a city payment center.
- Online Quick Pay payments typically post within one business day; phone payments may take slightly longer.
- If you want automatic monthly payments or to view past bills, you will need to create a full Customer Portal account instead.
- Late fees apply 30 days after the due date, so paying before that date stops additional charges.
Paying online through Quick Pay
Go to the City of Chicago water payment website. Look for the "Quick Pay" or "Pay Now" button — it is usually on the main page. Enter your water account number (the number on your bill, not your service address). Enter the amount you want to pay and choose your payment method: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or a bank account (checking or savings).
The system will ask for the cardholder or account holder's name, address, and the last four digits of the card or account number. Review the total, including any processing fee the city charges. Online payments typically post to your account within one business day. You will receive a confirmation number immediately — save this for your records.
If you do not have internet access or prefer not to pay online, you can call 311 from any phone in Chicago. A representative can process your payment over the phone using the same information. Phone payments may take one to two business days to post.
Paying in person at city payment centers
The City of Chicago operates payment centers where you can pay your water bill in cash, check, or money order. The main payment center is located at 121 North LaSalle Street, Suite 700, Chicago, IL 60602. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but call 311 to confirm current hours before you go.
Bring your water bill or account number and your payment. If you pay by check or money order, make it payable to the "City of Chicago." Cash payments are accepted but you will not receive change — the city will credit any overpayment to your account. Ask for a receipt before you leave.
Setting up automatic payments through the Customer Portal
If you want your bill paid automatically each month, you will need to create a full account in the Customer Portal rather than using Quick Pay. Go to the city's water payment website and select "Create Account" or "Register." You will provide your account number, service address, email, and a password.
Once logged in, go to "Billing" or "Payment Options" and select "Automatic Payment" or "Recurring Payment." Choose your payment method (bank account or card) and the date you want the payment to come out each month. The city will deduct the full bill amount automatically on that date. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime by logging back in.
The Customer Portal also shows your payment history and past bills, which Quick Pay does not. If you ever need to dispute a charge or check what you have already paid, having an account makes this easier.
Understanding payment fees and processing times
The City of Chicago charges a processing fee for online and phone payments made through Quick Pay. The fee varies depending on your payment method — credit and debit cards typically cost more than bank account payments. The exact fee appears on the screen before you confirm, so you know the total before you pay.
Payments made in person at a city payment center do not include a processing fee. Online payments usually post within one business day; phone payments may take one to two business days. In-person payments post immediately or within one business day depending on the time of day you pay.
What happens if your payment is late
Your water bill is due on the date printed on your bill. If you do not pay by that date, a late fee is added 30 days after the due date. The late fee is a percentage of your unpaid balance — the exact percentage is set by the city and may change year to year. Paying before the 30-day mark stops the late fee from being added.
If your bill remains unpaid for several months, the city may shut off your water service. You can call 311 to ask about a payment plan if you cannot pay the full amount at once. The city sometimes works with residents on extended payment schedules, but this is not may provide and depends on your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay someone else's water bill using Quick Pay?
Yes. You need the account number of the person whose bill you are paying, but you can use your own payment method. Enter their account number in the Quick Pay system and proceed as normal. The payment will be credited to their account.
What if I do not have my account number?
Your account number is on your water bill in the upper right corner. If you do not have a recent bill, call 311 and provide your service address. The representative can look up your account number and read it to you over the phone.
Is there a difference between Quick Pay and the Customer Portal?
Quick Pay is for one-time payments and requires no account. The Customer Portal requires you to create a login but lets you set up automatic payments, view past bills, and manage your account online. Both use the same city system and are equally secure.
What payment methods does the city accept?
Online and phone payments accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and bank accounts (checking or savings). In-person payments at city centers accept cash, check, and money order. Credit card payments typically have a higher processing fee than bank account or in-person payments.
Can I get a refund if I overpay?
Yes. If you pay more than you owe, the city credits the overpayment to your account. You can use the credit toward your next bill, or you can request a refund check by calling 311. Refunds typically take two to four weeks to arrive.