The Ultimate Guide to MPS Bill Pay: Fast, Convenient Ways to Pay Your Utility Bills

Hey there, fellow Moorhead residents! Today I wanna talk about something we all deal with each month – paying our utility bills. As someone who’s lived in Moorhead for years, I’ve tried pretty much every payment method MPS offers, and I’m here to share everything I know about MPS bill pay options

Let’s face it – nobody loves paying bills, but Moorhead Public Service has actually made it pretty darn convenient. So let’s dive into all the ways you can pay your MPS bill without breaking a sweat!

What is Moorhead Public Service (MPS)?

Before we jump into payment methods, let me give ya a quick overview. Moorhead Public Service (MPS) is our local utility provider here in Moorhead, Minnesota. They handle both our electricity and water services. Unlike private companies, MPS is publicly owned, which is pretty cool because they focus on serving us residents rather than making profits for shareholders.

MPS has been committed to making bill payments as quick and easy as possible for us customers. That’s why they offer several different payment methods to fit everyone’s preferences

When Is My MPS Bill Due?

First things first – when do you actually need to pay? MPS bills are due approximately 20 days after the issue date The specific billing dates vary depending on when they read your meter.

Don’t worry about remembering random dates though – the due date is clearly printed in the lower-right portion of your bill. I always circle this with a red marker as soon as I get my bill!

Important: If you don’t pay by the due date, you’ll get hit with a late charge of 5% of the current amount due. Trust me, I learned this the hard way last winter when I forgot about my bill while on vacation!

7 Easy Ways to Pay Your MPS Bill

Now let’s get to the good stuff – all the different ways you can pay your MPS bill!

1. Automatic Payment Plan (My Personal Favorite!)

If you’re like me and sometimes forget to pay bills on time, this option is a life-saver. The Automatic Payment Plan lets MPS automatically withdraw your payment from your checking or savings account on the due date each month.

How to set it up: You’ll need to sign up for this service by filling out a form. You can get this at the MPS office or download it from their website.

Pros:

• Never forget to pay again
• No late fees
• No need to log in anywhere
• No processing fees

Cons:

• You need to make sure you have enough money in your account on the due date
• Less control over exact payment timing

2. Pay Online at myMPSbill.com

This is super convenient if you prefer to pay online. You can visit www.myMPSbill.com and pay using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check.

How it works:

• You can create an account for recurring payments
• OR simply use the “Pay Now” button for one-time payments
• You’ll need your customer and account numbers (found in the top right corner of your bill)

Something to keep in mind: There’s a processing fee for online payments. It’s annoying, but sometimes the convenience is worth it when I’m traveling and can’t get to the office.

3. Pay by Phone (24/7 Service)

When I’m super busy and can’t make it to the office, I sometimes use this option. You can make payments by phone at any time by calling 218-477-8017.

What you’ll need:

• Your customer number
• Your account number
• A credit/debit card or checking account info

Like the online option, phone payments also come with a processing fee. But hey, sometimes convenience trumps saving a few bucks!

4. Pay in Person

If you’re old-school or just prefer face-to-face service, you can pay your bill in person at:

MPS Office:
2901 South Frontage Road, Suite 2
Moorhead, MN 56560

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm (excluding Holidays)

I actually like going in person sometimes because the staff is super friendly, and I can ask questions about my usage or any other concerns.

5. Drop Box Payment

If you can’t make it during office hours but happen to be in the area, there’s a drop box at the same address:

2901 South Frontage Road, Suite 2
Moorhead, MN 56560

I use this option when I’m running errands on the weekend and remember my bill is due soon. Just drop your payment in the box, and you’re good to go!

6. Mail Your Payment

The traditional way still works! You can mail your payment to:

Moorhead Public Service
P.O. Box 779
Moorhead, MN 56561-0779

Pro tip: I always mail my payment at least 5-7 days before the due date to make sure it arrives on time. The post office can be unpredictable sometimes!

7. Contact Customer Service for Special Arrangements

If you’re having trouble paying your bill, don’t just ignore it! MPS has some options that might help:

• Financial Assistance Agencies – MPS can refer you to local agencies that might be able to help
• Equalized Billing – This spreads your costs evenly throughout the year
• Minnesota Cold Weather Rule – Provides protection against disconnection during cold months
• Military Personnel Payment Arrangements – Special arrangements for active military

You can contact MPS customer service at 218-477-8000 (Option 4) or email them for more information about these programs.

My Personal Experience with MPS Bill Pay Options

When I first moved to Moorhead, I used to pay my bills in person because I wanted to make sure everything was set up correctly. The staff was super helpful in explaining my bill and answering all my newbie questions.

After a few months, I switched to the Automatic Payment Plan, and it’s been smooth sailing ever since. I like that I don’t have to remember due dates anymore, and I never get hit with those pesky late fees.

Last year when I was traveling for work, the online payment option saved me when I realized my auto-pay hadn’t processed correctly. I was able to hop online from my hotel room and take care of it right away.

Common Questions About MPS Bill Pay

What information do I need to pay my bill?

For most payment methods, you’ll need:

• Your customer number
• Your account number
• Payment method information (credit card, bank account, etc.)

These numbers are located in the top right corner of your most recent bill.

Are there any fees for paying my MPS bill?

• In-person, drop box, mail, and automatic payments: No fees
• Online payments and phone payments: Subject to processing fees

What if I’m having trouble paying my bill?

Don’t wait until you’re facing disconnection! Contact MPS at 218-477-8000 (Option 4) to discuss your options. They can provide information about:

• Payment arrangements
• Budget billing
• Financial assistance programs
• The Minnesota Cold Weather Rule

What happens if I pay late?

If payment isn’t received by the due date shown on your bill, you’ll be assessed a late charge of 5% of the current amount due. If bills remain unpaid, you could eventually face disconnection of services.

Tips for Managing Your MPS Utility Bills

Beyond just knowing how to pay, here are some tips I’ve picked up for managing my utility bills:

1. Sign up for e-bills – Get your bills electronically and save some trees!

2. Track your usage – Understanding your consumption patterns can help you identify ways to reduce your bills.

3. Consider equalized billing – This spreads your costs evenly throughout the year, making budgeting easier and avoiding those high summer (AC) or winter (heating) bills.

4. Check for leaks – A small water leak can significantly increase your water bill. Check faucets, toilets, and pipes regularly.

5. Explore efficiency rebates – MPS offers rebates for energy-efficient appliances and improvements through their Bright Energy Solutions program.

Final Thoughts

MPS has done a pretty good job making bill payment convenient for us Moorhead residents. Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer traditional methods, there’s an option that fits your lifestyle.

Personally, I’ve found the automatic payment plan to be the most stress-free way to handle my utilities, but I’m glad to have alternatives when I need them. The most important thing is finding what works for you and making sure you pay on time to avoid those extra charges!

---

Resources and Contact Information

Customer Service:

• Phone: 218-477-8000 (Option 4)
• Email: Contact through MPS website

Office Location:
2901 South Frontage Road, Suite 2
Moorhead, MN 56560

Mailing Address for Payments:
Moorhead Public Service
P.O. Box 779
Moorhead, MN 56561-0779

Pay by Phone:
218-477-8017 (24/7 automated system)

Online Payment:
www.myMPSbill.com

Remember, staying on top of your utility bills not only prevents late fees but also helps maintain the reliable service we all depend on every day!