How to Pay Your Bill for the Department of Public Works in Hialeah

Living in Hialeah comes with the responsibility of paying your bills for water, sewer, and waste services provided by the city’s Department of Public Works. While these bills are a part of life, paying them doesn’t have to be a hassle. The Department of Public Works offers residents multiple convenient options for taking care of these obligations. This article will provide an overview of the billing process and outline the various methods you can use to pay your Public Works bill in Hialeah.

Understanding Your Public Works Bill

The Public Works department handles your water sewer and solid waste services. This means you’ll receive a single bill from them covering all these utilities.

Your water and sewer charges are based on your actual metered usage. The rates are determined by the size of your meter and how much water you use each month. There is a base facility charge and then a volumetric rate per 1,000 gallons.

Solid waste fees are charged per dwelling unit. This covers your regular trash, recycling and bulk pickup services. The monthly rate depends on factors like your property type and the size of your trash cart.

Bills are sent out monthly and are typically due 21 days after the statement date. However, you can also opt for bi-monthly billing if preferred.

When and How to Pay Your Bill

The due date is printed on your bill and will generally be 3 weeks after the statement date. However, you don’t need to wait for the due date to pay. The department offers several options to pay your bill early or on a schedule that meets your needs

• In Person: You can pay by cash, check or money order at the Department of Public Works office (3700 W 4th Ave), Hialeah City Hall (501 Palm Ave) or any local Amscot branch.

• By Mail: Detach the payment coupon from your bill and mail it with a check or money order to the address printed. Allow 5-7 days for delivery.

• Drive-Thru: The Public Works office has a convenient drive-thru window open weekdays 7am-5pm for quick payment drop-off.

• Drop Boxes: The Public Works office also has a 24/7 drop box for after hours payment drop off. There is one by the drive-thru and one by the front entrance.

• Online: Pay by credit/debit card or e-check via the online payment portal. You’ll need to register for an account.

• By Phone: Call 305-556-3800 and press 2 to pay by credit/debit card.

• Mobile App: Download the HialeahFL mobile app and pay via your stored payment method.

• Bank Bill Pay: Use your bank’s online bill pay service. Allow 5-7 days for the check to reach the city.

As long as your payment arrives by the due date, any of these options will avoid late fees or service disruption. Setting up automatic payments is a great way to stay on track.

Payment Plan Options

If you’re having trouble paying your bill in full, Hialeah offers payment plan options. You can apply for a payment extension to spread your balance over multiple months. Interest and penalties will still apply, but this prevents disruption to your services.

For low income residents, you may qualify for the city’s ASSIST program. This provides a 25% discount on your water/sewer bill based on household income criteria.

The Public Works department also has an RPP program to assist lower income seniors and disabled customers. This offers a 50% discount on water/sewer charges.

Avoid Late Fees and Service Disruption

To avoid penalties, it’s important to pay your Public Works bill by the due date printed on your statement. If you miss the deadline, a 10% late fee will be applied to the outstanding balance.

If a bill remains unpaid for 60 days past the due date, your water service may be disconnected. There will be fees to restore service once payment is made. Solid waste collection will also be suspended for delinquent accounts.

Setting up automatic payments or reminders on your calendar can help prevent overlooked bills that lead to late fees. And reaching out to the Public Works office early about payment arrangements shows good faith if you’re having trouble making a payment on time.

Communication is Key

The Public Works department understands unexpected situations can arise. If you anticipate difficulty with payment, it’s important to contact them right away to discuss potential solutions.

Some options include:

• Payment plan/extension
• Budget billing to even out bills
• Leak adjustment if a leak caused a spike in usage
• Account audit if you have questions about your charges

Don’t let an unpaid bill escalate unnecessarily. The department has tools to work with residents facing financial hardship. But helping requires open communication in a timely manner.

Keep Your Contact Info Updated

To ensure you receive and can pay bills on time, verify your contact information is current with Public Works. Let them know if you move or need to update:

• Mailing address for bills
• Phone number
• Email for paperless e-bills
• Account holder name if responsibility changes

You can update details through the online customer portal, mobile app or by calling the department directly. Having correct info prevents missed notices that can lead to disruption.

Paying Your Public Works Bill is Easy

What seems like a chore is fairly simple when you know all the payment options. From dropping a check in the drive thru to paying on your phone in seconds, Hialeah offers modern flexibility. Plus programs for those facing financial challenges provide a helping hand when needed. Stay in communication with Public Works, pay by the due dates and your utility services will continue uninterrupted!