Utility Bill Assistance

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) knows that the pandemic, inflation, and rising housing costs have made it harder for some of our customers to afford essential services, and we're here to help. We offer several financial resources for customers to get caught up and stay caught up on their bills.

Payment Plans

Pay what you can now and the rest over time.

About utility bill payment plans

Payment plans are available to all customers, including residential, business, and property owners, regardless of income. With a payment plan, you can break up your past due balance into smaller amounts and pay over time and continue receiving your utility services. SPU will work with you to set up a plan that makes sense for your budget.

Can you pay your past due balance within 60 days?

Short-Term Payment Plan

You can set up a short-term payment plan for any Seattle Public Utilities or Seattle City Light account linked to your account on the Utility Services Website or by calling (206) 684-3000.  

Don't have a profile? Set one up today.

Do you need more than 60 days to pay your past due balance?

Long-Term Payment Plan 

You can also set up a long-term payment plan with a Customer Service representative by calling (206) 684-3000.

If you are a tenant requesting a long-term payment plan, please have the property owner’s contact information (name, phone, and email address) available when you call to set up a long-term payment plan. 

Bill Assistance Programs

Utility Discount Program

If your household income is at or below 70% of the state median income, enroll in the Utility Discount Program to receive an ongoing 50% bill discount on your water, sewer, and solid waste services from Seattle Public Utilities plus a 60% discount on Seattle City Light electricity bills. Learn more about the Utility Discount Program.

Emergency Assistance Program

Income-eligible residential customers can get help paying their utility bill immediately through the Emergency Assistance Program. If you qualify, you could receive up to a maximum of $507 a year ($1014 for households with children under 18) toward your past due balance. Find out if you qualify for Emergency Assistance Program.

If you are enrolled in the Utility Discount Program, you may also be eligible for Emergency Assistance Program. To find out if you qualify, call SPU Customer Service at (206) 684-3000.