*ACH can only be added to an account for continuous scheduled payment once it has a zero balance. This is NOT a single payment service.
If you are interested in having your water bill payment automatically deducted from your checking or savings account, please provide the Authority with the following information. This information will be used for billing purposes only:
Are you tired of forgetting to pay your water bill or having to make special trips to drop off payments? I’ve been there too! As someone who’s used every payment method the State College Borough Water Authority (SCBWA) offers, I wanted to create this comprehensive guide to help my fellow community members understand all their options for handling their SCBWA bill payments.
What is SCBWA?
Before diving into payment methods, let’s clarify what SCBWA actually is The State College Borough Water Authority provides water services to residents and businesses in the State College area Like any utility company, they send regular bills that need to be paid to maintain your water service.
SCBWA Bill Pay Options in 2025
SCBWA offers several convenient ways to pay your water bill. I’ll break down each option so you can choose what works best for your lifestyle and preferences.
1. Online Customer Portal (NEW!)
SCBWA recently introduced a Customer Portal that allows you to:
- Make one-time payments
- View your account history
- Track water usage
How to access the portal
- Visit https://scbwa.authoritypay.com/
- If you’re a new user, click “Create a new account”
- You’ll need your account number and CID number from your most recent bill
- Follow the prompts to set up your account
This portal is a game-changer for managing your water account! I personally love being able to check my usage history without calling the office.
2. Paymentus Third-Party Payment System
SCBWA has contracted with Paymentus to process online payments.
Important notes about Paymentus:
- Minimum payment amount is $20.00
- If you schedule automatic payments through Paymentus, your bill will NOT say “Auto-Pay” on it
- Scheduled payments under $20.00 will not process
3. Auto-Pay via ACH (Automatic Cash Withdrawal)
This is my favorite method! Once set up, your payment is automatically deducted from your checking or savings account on the due date.
How to enroll in ACH:
- Submit an online ACH form through the SCBWA website
- OR download the ACH form from their website and mail/bring it to their office
- Your account must have a zero balance before enrolling
- Any changes to ACH must be made at least 30 days before your bill date
When enrolled in ACH, your bill will be marked “Auto-Pay” – this is different from Paymentus automatic payments!
4. In-Office Payment Options
If you prefer paying in person, SCBWA accepts the following payment methods at their office:
- Cash
- Checks
- Credit cards (Discover, MasterCard, Visa)
Note about credit card payments: There’s a service fee assessed by the credit card processor (not SCBWA) of either $2.50 OR 2.95% of the payment amount, whichever is greater.
5. After-Hours Drop Box
Can’t make it during regular business hours? No worries! SCBWA has a night drop box for after-hours payments at their office location.
6. Mail-In Payments
You can always mail your payment to:
State College Borough Water Authority1201 West Branch RoadState College, PA 16801-7697Warning About Third-Party Payment Services
SCBWA has noticed some customers using a service called “doxo” which is NOT affiliated with them. While doxo is legitimate, they:
- Create payment pages that might appear to be affiliated with SCBWA
- May add their own convenience fees
- Use search engine optimization to appear in search results
Always make sure you’re using official SCBWA payment channels to avoid additional fees!
What If I’m Having Trouble Paying My Bill?
We all go through tough times. If you’re facing financial hardship, SCBWA encourages you to contact them as soon as possible at (814) 238-6766. They may be able to offer:
- Payment arrangements
- Information about assistance programs
Don’t wait until you’re behind – they’re willing to work with customers who reach out proactively!
Office Information and Contact Details
Main Office:
1201 W Branch Rd
State College, PA 16801
Phone: (814) 238-6766
After Hours Emergency: (800) 479-0050
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Returned Payment Fees
Be careful with your payment information! Any returned payments are subject to a $35.00 NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) fee.
My Personal Experience with SCBWA Bill Pay
When I first moved to State College, I used to mail my payments, but I’d occasionally forget and have to rush to the office on the due date. After a particularly hectic month where I nearly missed my payment deadline, I decided to enroll in the ACH program.
Setting up ACH was super easy – I just filled out the form online, and after about a month, my bill started showing “Auto-Pay.” Now I never worry about late fees, and I can still track my usage through the customer portal. The peace of mind is totally worth it!
Common Questions About SCBWA Bill Pay
How do I sign up for the new Customer Portal?
To register for the Customer Portal, you’ll need to:
- Visit https://scbwa.authoritypay.com/
- Click “Create Account”
- Have your most recent bill handy for your Account Number and CID Number
- Follow the registration instructions
What’s the difference between ACH and Paymentus automatic payments?
This is something that confuses many customers! Here’s how they differ:
- ACH payments are set up directly with SCBWA, require a zero balance to begin, and your bill will show “Auto-Pay”
- Paymentus automatic payments are set up through the third-party payment processor, and your bill will NOT show “Auto-Pay”
What if I don’t receive my bill?
Not receiving your bill doesn’t exempt you from payment responsibility. If you haven’t received your bill, contact SCBWA at (814) 238-6766 as soon as possible.
How can I update my contact information?
You can update your information by:
- Calling the office
- Using the Customer Portal
- Visiting the office in person
Are there any discounts for senior citizens?
Currently, SCBWA doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors, but they do have assistance programs for customers experiencing hardship. Call their office for more details.
Understanding Your SCBWA Bill
Your SCBWA bill typically includes:
- Account number
- CID number (needed for online access)
- Current charges
- Due date
- Previous balance
- Payment history
If you’re enrolled in ACH, your bill will clearly state “Auto-Pay” to remind you that no action is needed.
Tips for Efficient SCBWA Bill Management
- Set up account reminders if you’re not using automatic payments
- Keep your contact info updated to ensure you receive bills and important notices
- Check for leaks if you notice unusual increases in your bill
- Sign up for the Customer Portal even if you use ACH – it’s great for monitoring usage
- Contact SCBWA immediately if you anticipate payment difficulties
The Future of SCBWA Bill Pay
SCBWA continues to modernize their payment systems to make things easier for customers. Their newest addition, the Customer Portal, shows their commitment to providing convenient options for account management and bill payment.
We can probably expect more digital features in the future as they continue to enhance customer service options. I’m personally hoping for text message reminders and maybe even a mobile app someday!
Final Thoughts
Paying your SCBWA bill doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With multiple payment options available, you can choose the method that best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
I’ve found that the auto-pay ACH option provides the most peace of mind, but the new Customer Portal is excellent for those who prefer more control over when payments are made.
Whatever method you choose, the most important thing is staying current with your payments to avoid service interruptions and late fees. And remember – if you’re having trouble making payments, SCBWA is willing to work with you if you contact them proactively.
Have you tried any of these payment methods? Which one works best for your situation? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!
Resources
- SCBWA Customer Portal: https://scbwa.authoritypay.com/
- SCBWA Payment Options: https://www.scbwa.org/payment-options
- SCBWA Main Office: (814) 238-6766
- After Hours Emergency: (800) 479-0050
Don’t forget – maintaining a good payment history with SCBWA isn’t just about avoiding late fees; it’s about ensuring the continued delivery of safe, clean water to your home or business. Choose the payment option that helps you stay on track!
Authorization for Automatic Bill Payment Please Complete ALL Sections and return this form: (required)
I authorize the State College Borough Water Authority to instruct my banking/savings institution to make my water (and sewer if located in State College Borough) payment from the account listed below. I understand that I control my payments, and if at any time I decide to discontinue this payment service or if my banking institution or information changes, I will notify the Authority in writing. I understand that the addition or changes to my automatic payment must be made at least 30 days prior to the bill date of the account listed below. I acknowledge that this is not an immediate payment. ACH can only be applied once an account has a 0 balance. I understand that I am responsible for removing ANY other auto-pay that I may have set up. Account Number (required) CID number (required) Name (required) Service Address (required) City (required) State (required) Zip Code (required) Telephone Number (required) Email Address (required) Signature (required) Sign above Name for Signature (required)
