The City of New Bern, North Carolina, provides essential utility services including electricity, water, wastewater, sanitation, and refuse to over 25,000 customers in New Bern and surrounding areas. Customers can pay bills securely online via the official portal powered by SEDC/Official Payments, by phone at 252-639-2750, mail, drive-thru, or in person at the office, with options for e-billing and payment plans to avoid late fees. Bills are issued monthly; payments post immediately for online and phone methods. New service requires an application and possible deposit.
Learn how to pay your City of New Bern utilities bill, set up auto payments, view statements, and contact support using the official links below.
Utilities Business Office – City of New Bern, NC
https://www.newbernnc.gov/departments/administration/finance/utilities_business_office.php
Access billing information, payment options, and resources for electric, water, sewer, and sanitation services.
Pay My Bill – City of New Bern, NC
View or pay your bill online by clicking the link. If assistance is needed, scroll to the bottom of the page for instructions. Jurisdiction code 3964 for City of New Bern utilities.
I. City of New Bern Payment Methods and Fees
The City of New Bern offers several flexible payment options, including online, in-person, and mail.
1. Online Payment (Third-Party Portal)
The City uses a third-party processor, such as Official Payments or Paymentus, for all card and electronic check transactions.
- eCheck/Electronic Check (ACH):
- Fee: FREE (No transaction fee).
- Details: Pay directly from your checking or savings account using the online portal.
- Credit/Debit Card:
- Fee: A convenience fee applies. (Typically a percentage of the payment amount, charged by the third-party vendor).
- Details: Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover) are accepted online.
2. Automated Payment Plans
- Bank Draft (AutoPay): This is the most recommended and cost-effective option.
- Fee: FREE (No transaction fee).
- Enrollment: Fill out an authorization form (available on the City’s website) and submit it along with a voided check to the Utility Billing Office. Your bill will be automatically paid from your bank account on the due date.
3. Other Payment Methods
| Method | Instructions | Fee |
| Pay by Phone | Call the Utility Billing Office at (252) 639-7500 during business hours. Payments are accepted via card (fee applies) or eCheck (free). | Varies by method |
| In-Person | Pay at the City Hall Finance Office (300 H.W. Hyde Memorial Parkway, New Bern, NC 28560). Accepts cash, check, and money orders. | FREE |
| Drop Box | A secure night deposit box is available at City Hall for payments by check or money order only (do not leave cash). | FREE |
| Send a check or money order along with the payment stub to the mailing address listed on your utility bill statement. | FREE (Postage applies) |
II. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These questions and answers address common customer concerns regarding utility services in New Bern.
Q: What is the most cost-effective way to pay my New Bern utility bill?
- A: Enrolling in the Bank Draft (AutoPay) program using your checking or savings account is the most cost-effective option, as it is fee-free and ensures timely payment every month.
Q: Why does the City charge a fee for credit card payments?
- A: The fee is a convenience fee assessed by the third-party payment processor (e.g., Official Payments) to cover the costs associated with the card transaction. The City of New Bern does not retain any portion of this fee.
Q: What happens if I miss the due date on my utility bill?
- A: Utility bills must be paid by the due date. Accounts that are past due are subject to:
- A late penalty fee (typically 1.5% of the unpaid balance).
- A potential disconnection of service, which will require payment of the full past-due balance plus a reconnection fee before service is restored.
Q: Who should I call for a utility emergency (e.g., water main break, power outage)?
- A: For utility emergencies outside of normal business hours, you should call the main emergency line: (252) 639-7500. This number is answered 24/7 and will dispatch appropriate City personnel.
Q: How can I change the mailing address or service address on my utility account?
- A: You must contact the Utility Billing Office directly during business hours at (252) 639-7500 or visit the Finance Office at City Hall to complete the necessary change forms.