A Comprehensive Guide to Paying Your MCWA Water Bill

Having reliable water service is essential for every home and business. As a customer of the Monroe County Water Authority (MCWA), it’s your responsibility to pay your water bill on time each month. MCWA offers multiple payment options to fit your needs. This guide will walk through everything you need to know about managing your water account and making prompt payments to MCWA.

Overview of Monroe County Water Authority

The Monroe County Water Authority is the main water provider for residents and businesses in Monroe County NY. Here are some key facts about MCWA

• Provides water service to over 180,000 customers.

• Headquartered at 475 Norris Drive in Rochester, NY.

• Operates two water treatment plants and maintains over 1,800 miles of water main.

• Governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Monroe County Executive

• Customers are billed monthly based on metered water usage

• Offers online account access, billing alerts, and various payment methods.

As an MCWA customer, you must pay your water bill by the due date printed on your monthly statement to avoid late fees or service disruption.

Payment Options Offered by MCWA

MCWA offers several convenient ways to pay your water bill each month:

• By mail – Send your payment stub and check to the address printed on your bill. Allow mailing time.

• Online – Pay by credit/debit card or e-check through the customer portal. A $1.45 transaction fee applies.

• Phone – Call 585-442-7200 during business hours to pay over the phone.

• Auto-pay – Enroll in monthly auto-drafts from your bank account on your bill’s due date.

• Drop box – Use the drop box at the MCWA office to leave check/money order payments.

• In person – Visit the MCWA office during business hours to pay at the front desk.

Choose the most convenient option each month to make sure your water bill gets paid on time.

Payment Timelines and Late Fees

MCWA bills are typically due within 21 days of the billing date. Here are key payment timelines:

• Due within 21 days – Pay bills by the due date to avoid late fees.

• 30 days late – A 10% late penalty is added to past due balances.

• 60+ days late – Accounts 60+ days late are subject to water service shut-off.

Paying on time is crucial to avoid late fees and possible service interruption. Contact MCWA immediately if you anticipate issues paying on time.

Setting Up Online Account Access

The fastest way to monitor and pay your MCWA water bill is through the online customer portal. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the MCWA website and click on “My Account”

2. Click on “New User Registration” if it’s your first time.

3. Enter your account number, email, phone number and create a password.

4. Check your email for a verification link and click to confirm.

Once registered, you can view bill amounts, payment history, usage graphs, make payments and more. Online access makes account management quick and easy.

Payment Help for Struggling Customers

If you’re unable to pay your water bill in full, contact MCWA right away to discuss options like:

• Payment agreements to pay past due balances over time.

• Due date extensions to align with your pay schedule.

• Budget billing to pay equal monthly installments.

• Bill review for possible adjustments.

• Water bill assistance programs if you meet income requirements.

Don’t let payments fall behind without proactively communicating with MCWA. Payment arrangements and temporary assistance are available to avoid water shut-off.

Moving In or Out of Monroe County?

To start or stop water service, contact MCWA at least 3 business days before your move date. Provide:

• Your move in/out date

• Service address

• Proof of property purchase/lease

• Valid photo ID

Handling this in advance ensures water is on when you move in and billing stops promptly when you move out.

Key Takeaways for Paying Your MCWA Bill

• Carefully review monthly bills and pay the total due on time.

• Sign up for convenient online account access and bill pay.

• Contact MCWA right away if you anticipate issues paying on time.

• Payment assistance and flexible arrangements are available if you qualify.

• Plan ahead when starting/stopping service before moving in/out.

Following these tips will help you stay on top of your MCWA water account. Maintaining prompt payments ensures your water service continues uninterrupted. With multiple payment options available, paying your MCWA water bill can be quick and easy each month.