Stearns Electric Association delivers reliable electric service to more than 28,000 members across central Minnesota. Monthly bills cover energy usage, distribution charges, and any applicable rate adjustments, with payments due according to the due date printed on each statement. Managing your Stearns Electric bill is straightforward with secure digital tools and traditional methods that keep service uninterrupted.
- For the most current details on accounts and payments, visit the official Payment Options page at https://www.stearnselectric.org/account-services/billing-information/payment-options/.
- Members and customers can also make one-time payments directly through the secure Pay Now portal at https://stearnselectric.smarthub.coop/PayNow.html.
Guest Pay / One-Time Payment Option
Stearns Electric Association offers a convenient Pay Now feature for one-time payments without creating or logging into a SmartHub account. This guest-pay option is ideal for occasional users or those who prefer not to register.
To pay:
- Go to the Pay Now portal.
- Enter your full Stearns Electric Association Billing Account Number (found in the top right of your bill).
- Enter your Last Name or Business Name.
- Click Submit, then enter the payment amount (Total Due or Other Amount).
- Choose to pay with a new Credit/Debit Card or a new Bank Account (ACH/eCheck).
- Review and confirm to complete the transaction.
Payments are processed securely and typically post the same or next business day. No convenience fees are charged for these official Pay Now transactions. You will receive an immediate receipt and confirmation number upon successful payment.
Online Account Management with SmartHub
For recurring access, create a free SmartHub account at the official member portal. Once logged in, you can view bills, track usage, set up AutoPay, enroll in paperless billing, receive email/text alerts, and manage multiple accounts. SmartHub works seamlessly on computers, tablets, or the mobile app, giving 24/7 control over your Stearns Electric bill. AutoPay automatically deducts the billed amount from your chosen bank account or card each month, eliminating due-date worries.
Pay by Phone
Use the 24/7 automated Secure Pay system by calling (855) 939-3705. Have your Stearns Electric account number and payment details ready. The system accepts credit/debit cards and electronic checks. Payments are secure and process immediately during the call. For billing questions or assistance, call the main customer service line at (800) 962-0655 during business hours.
Mail Payments
Send your payment stub along with a check or money order (payable to Stearns Electric Association) to: Stearns Electric Association PO Box 40 Melrose, MN 56352
Write your account number on the check. Do not send cash, and allow 5–7 business days for processing and mail delivery. This option remains completely fee-free.
In-Person and Drop Box Payments
Visit the Melrose Headquarters in person at: 700 Kraft Drive SE Melrose, MN 56352
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Payments are accepted at the front desk during these hours. A secure 24/7 drop box is available outside the building for after-hours check or money order payments (no cash).
The St. Joseph Branch Office is located at: 29643 Frontage Road St. Joseph, MN 56374
This location is open by appointment only, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with its own 24/7 drop box.
Additional Payment Programs
Stearns Electric Association offers Budget Billing to average your payments over 12 months for more predictable monthly amounts. Enroll through SmartHub or by contacting customer service. AutoPay through SmartHub provides automatic monthly deductions with no setup fees. These programs help members manage costs effectively, especially with the 2026 rate adjustments.
Contact Customer Service
Reach Stearns Electric Association customer service at (800) 962-0655 for billing inquiries, payment arrangements, service starts/stops, or assistance programs. For outages or emergencies, use the same number or report via SmartHub. Response times are prompt during office hours, and the cooperative maintains dedicated support for members facing financial hardship, including coordination with Minnesota energy assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Stearns Electric bill online without creating an account? Yes. The Pay Now guest option at https://stearnselectric.smarthub.coop/PayNow.html allows one-time payments using only your account number and last name—no login required.
What payment methods does Stearns Electric accept? Official channels accept credit/debit cards and bank accounts (ACH/eCheck). Mail and drop boxes accept checks or money orders. No cash is accepted by mail or drop box.
Are there convenience fees for Stearns Electric online or phone payments? No convenience fees are charged for Pay Now, SmartHub, or the automated phone system when using official channels.
Where do I mail my Stearns Electric payment? Stearns Electric Association, PO Box 40, Melrose, MN 56352. Include your account number on the check.
What are the in-person payment hours at Stearns Electric? Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–4:00 PM at the Melrose Headquarters, 700 Kraft Drive SE, Melrose, MN 56352. The St. Joseph Branch is by appointment only.
How do I set up AutoPay for my Stearns Electric bill? Log into your free SmartHub account or contact customer service at (800) 962-0655. AutoPay automatically withdraws the billed amount each month.
What services does Stearns Electric Association provide? Electric distribution and member-owned cooperative services, including energy efficiency programs, outage management, and billing support for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural members.
How do I report an outage or get help with payment arrangements? Call (800) 962-0655 or use SmartHub. The cooperative offers flexible payment plans and can connect eligible members with Minnesota assistance programs.
