At Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), we’re committed to making utility services more affordable and accessible for everyone. We understand that many customers are facing financial challenges, and we’re here to help.
In addition to our customer programs like the Toilet Replacement Rebate, Side Sewer Assistance Program, Free Waste Disposal Service, and more, SPU offers several affordability programs that provide relief to customers who qualify:
- Utility Discount Program (UDP): Ongoing 50% discount on your water and waste services from Seattle Public Utilities, plus a 60% discount on Seattle City Light electricity bills.
- Emergency Assistance Program (EAP): One-time help for households experiencing a sudden loss of income or unexpected expenses. You could receive up to a maximum of $518 a year ($1,036 for households with children under 18) toward your past-due balance.
These programs are designed to help those who qualify based on income. But we know customers who don’t meet the income threshold struggle to catch up on past-due utility bills.
To support more customers, we’re introducing a new way to get help: flexible, long-term payment plans through a secure online platform. No income verification is required!
Introducing PromisePay: A New Way to Manage Past-Due Balances
SPU has partnered with PromisePay, a trusted payment platform that makes it easier for residential customers with past-due balances of $100 or more to set up and manage payment plans online.
Through PromisePay, customers can:
- Set up a payment plan that fits their budget
- Choose a payment amount and due date that works best for them
- Manage their plan anytime, online
- Get helpful reminders and tools to stay on track
Short-Term Payment Plans are Still Available
SPU will continue to offer short-term payment plans (up to 60 days) for all customers, including renters, property owners, and businesses.
You can set up a short-term plan:
- Online: Set up a short-term plan through the Utility Services Website.
- By Phone: Call SPU’s Customer Service team at (206) 684-3000 for assistance.
Why Use a Payment Plan?
Flexible payment plans give customers more control over their bills and help prevent service shutoffs. Key benefits include:
- Breaking large balances into smaller, easier payments
- Avoiding interruptions to essential services
- Reducing stress with predictable, scheduled payments
- Staying informed with reminders and easy access to your plan
We’re Here to Help
We know that inflation, housing costs, and the lasting impacts of the pandemic have made it harder to keep up with bills. That’s why we’re expanding our support options and making it easier to get the help you need.
Get Started Today
To explore your options and find the right payment plan for you, visit our Payment Plans page. Ready to enroll in a long-term plan? Sign up anytime through the PromisePay portal or call (206) 684-3000 for help. Eligible customers may also receive texts, emails, or other outreach inviting them to join PromisePay.
Stay Safe: Watch Out for Scams
SPU will never call or text you to demand immediate payment or request personal financial information. If someone contacts you demanding immediate payment, rather than working with you to set up a payment plan, it is a scam.
If you’re unsure about your account status, log in to your profile on the Utility Services Website or call us at (206) 684-3000 to verify.