Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) provides essential electricity water and natural gas services to residents and businesses in Rochester, MN. As a customer, you receive monthly bills for your RPU utility services that must be paid on time to avoid late fees or service disruptions.
Thankfully RPU offers a fast and easy online bill payment option through their website. In this comprehensive guide we’ll explain the benefits of paying online, walk through the payment process step-by-step, and answer common questions about RPU online bill pay.
Why Pay Your RPU Bill Online
There are many advantages to paying your RPU utility bill online rather than mailing in a check:
-
It’s convenient – Pay anytime, anywhere in just minutes with an internet connection.
-
It’s fast – Payments post instantly to your account. No waiting for checks in the mail.
-
It’s secure – RPU uses encryption and security measures to protect your information.
-
It’s eco-friendly – Save paper and avoid driving to a payment drop-off.
-
It’s automated – Set up recurring payments to avoid late fees.
-
It’s savings-friendly – Pay only what you owe for the month to better manage your utility budget.
-
It’s personalized – Store payment methods and view billing history.
Online payments give you more control and visibility into your RPU account. It’s the easiest way for most customers to pay their utility bill each month.
How to Set Up an RPU Online Account
To get started with online bill pay, you first need to set up an online account with RPU:
-
Go to RPU’s website and click on “Pay Bill” at the top.
-
Select “Pay Bill” again on the next page.
-
Click “Register” under the login fields.
-
Enter your RPU account number, account holder name, and email address.
-
Create a username and password. Agree to the terms.
-
Provide your contact information and verify your email.
-
Your online account is now active! You can log in to make a payment.
The one-time setup process only takes a few minutes. You’ll then be able to log in anytime to pay your bill, manage autopay, review payment history, update account information, and more.
How to Pay Your RPU Bill Online
Here are step-by-step instructions for making a one-time RPU bill payment:
-
Log into your RPU online account.
-
Select “Pay Bill” from the menu.
-
Choose the account you want to pay from the drop-down.
-
Enter the payment amount, or select the option to pay the total balance due.
-
Enter your debit card or bank account information if paying for the first time.
-
Review the payment details carefully before submitting.
-
You’ll receive an on-screen and email payment confirmation shortly after.
The process is quick and simple. Your RPU electricity, water, and gas accounts can all be paid seamlessly in the same online portal.
Payment Options for RPU Online Bill Pay
RPU offers multiple secure payment options for online bill payment:
-
Debit/credit card – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
-
eCheck – Free ACH withdrawals from checking/savings
-
Autopay – Set up recurring automatic payments
-
CashPay – Make payments at retail locations
-
Budget Billing – Pay an equal monthly amount year-round
There are no fees for eCheck ACH or CashPay in-person payments. Card payments incur a small convenience fee.
Other Ways to Pay Your RPU Bill
If you prefer not to pay online, RPU also accepts:
-
Mail: Send check or money order to 4000 E River Rd NE, Rochester, MN 55906
-
Phone: Call (507) 280-1500 to pay by credit/debit card
-
In person: Visit the RPU office to pay by cash, check, or money order
-
Drop box: Use the drive-up drop box at the RPU office after hours
However, online payments are the easiest and most widely-used option for most RPU customers each month.
Tips for Avoiding Online Payment Issues
Follow these tips when paying your RPU bill online for a smooth, problem-free experience:
-
Log in early to check your balance due before the due date.
-
Pay a few days before the due date to account for processing time.
-
Schedule recurring autopay payments for predictability.
-
Save payment info to avoid re-entering details each time.
-
Contact RPU immediately if your payment doesn’t process properly.
-
Update expired debit/credit cards if you have autopay set up.
-
Save payment confirmations and check your account for reflected balances.
-
Use strong passwords and keep your login information secure.
With some planning and vigilance, you can avoid most headaches with RPU’s user-friendly online bill pay system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about paying your RPU bill online:
Is there a fee to pay online?
Yes, a convenience fee applies to debit/credit card payments. eCheck ACH payments are free.
When will my online payment be applied to my account?
Payments are typically applied to your RPU account within an hour if submitted before 3 PM.
Can I set up autopay or recurring payments?
Yes, RPU allows you to schedule automated recurring payments within your online account.
What if I forgot my RPU online account password?
Use the “Forgot Password” link on the login page and you’ll be emailed a reset link.
What details can I see in my RPU online account?
You can view current and past bills, make payments, see payment history, change account info, sign up for alerts, and more.
Paying your RPU bill online saves time and gives you greater visibility into your utility usage and payments. Follow this guide to securely manage your account and pay your bill in just minutes each month!
