Streamlining Bill Payments with Brainerd Public Utilities

Paying your utility bills on time every month is an essential part of being a responsible homeowner or renter. However, keeping track of due dates and mailing in payments can be tedious and time-consuming. Fortunately, Brainerd Public Utilities offers convenient online and offline options to pay your electric water, and wastewater bills. In this article we’ll provide an overview of the various bill payment methods available and tips for choosing the right option for your needs.

Brainerd Public Utilities (BPU) is a municipal utility company serving residents of Brainerd, Minnesota and the surrounding communities. They provide electric, drinking water, and wastewater treatment services to over 12,800 customers in the area.

BPU is governed by the Public Utilities Commission, which is comprised of five citizens from Brainerd. The goal of the utility is to provide reliable services to customers at the lowest reasonable cost.

Payment Options Offered by Brainerd Public Utilities

BPU offers customers multiple ways to pay utility bills, both online and offline. Let’s take a look at each of the payment methods available:

Pay Online

The easiest way for most customers to pay their bill is online through BPU’s payment portal. You can make secure payments on your computer or mobile device anytime.

First-time users will need to enter their BPU account number and the amount of their last payment. After the initial setup, you can store your payment information for future transactions.

One thing to note is that if your account is in disconnect status, you won’t be able to use the online payment portal. You’ll need to call BPU directly to arrange payment.

Pay In-Person

If you prefer to pay your bill face-to-face, you can stop by the BPU Business Office located at 8027 Highland Scenic Rd Their front office is open Monday through Friday from 7 00 AM to 3 30 PM.

Pay by Phone

Calling the automated phone payment system at 218-829-8726 is another convenient option. This line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You’ll just need to have your BPU account number handy to process the payment.

Pay by Mail

Billing statements include a return payment envelope that you can use to mail in a check or money order. Be sure to include your payment stub to apply the funds properly.

You can also mail payments directly to:

BPU
PO Box 373
Brainerd, MN 56401

Just keep in mind payments sent by mail need to be received by the due date to avoid late fees. Allow 3-5 business days for delivery.

Drop Boxes

BPU has four drop box locations around the city where you can deposit your payment envelopes. Payments left in the drop boxes by 7:00 AM each weekday will be collected and processed that day.

Drop box locations include:

• East Brainerd Mall by The Dollar Store
• Senior Citizens Center south entrance
• Southwest corner of S 7th St and Laurel St
• BPU Business Office at 8027 Highland Scenic Rd

Automatic Payments

Signing up for auto-pay through your bank is a hassle-free way to ensure your BPU bills are paid on time each month. Payments will be automatically deducted from your checking or savings account on the due date.

To enroll, complete the auto-pay form available on BPU’s website and submit a voided check. Allow 30 days notice to cancel auto-pay if desired.

Budget Billing

Budget billing gives customers the option to pay a fixed amount each month based on their average annual usage. Your monthly bill will still show the actual usage, but the budget amount due stays the same.

To qualify, you’ll need 12 months of billing history with BPU and a good payment record. Budget accounts are reevaluated twice a year.

Tips for Paying Your Bill

• If funds are tight, contact BPU before your bill is past due to discuss payment plan options and financial assistance programs that may be available.

• Sign up to receive billing statements electronically through e-billing. You’ll get an email when your bill is ready to view and pay online.

• Consider combining auto-pay and budget billing for maximum convenience. Your pre-determined budget amount will be automatically deducted each month.

• Keep your account info current. Update your phone number, email, and mailing address if they change so you continue receiving billing notices.

• Get payment receipts and track payment history by accessing your online account portal.

• Avoid late fees by paying a day or two early, especially around holidays when due dates may shifted forward.

Whychoose Brainerd Public Utilities for Service?

There are many good reasons for Brainerd area residents and businesses to choose services from this local utility:

• BPU is a not-for-profit community-owned utility focused on providing reliable service at the lowest practical cost.

• Revenue generated goes back into the community to maintain infrastructure and keep rates affordable.

• BPU prioritizes exceptional customer service and offers multiple payment options for convenience.

• They actively invest in renewable energy like hydropower and community solar gardens to increase sustainability.

• Tap water provided by BPU consistently meets or exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards.

• Employees live in and care about the Brainerd lakes area just like their customers.