Let’s face it – nobody loves paying utility bills, but we all gotta keep the lights on! If you’re a TCLP customer like me, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide on all the ways you can pay your Traverse City Light and Power bill. From online options to in-person payments, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your account current and avoid any late fees.
Quick Overview of TCLP Payment Methods
Before diving into the details here’s a quick look at all the ways you can pay your TCLP bill
- Online credit/debit card payments
- Auto Pay enrollment
- Mail-in payments
- Drop box locations
- In-person payments
I’ve tried most of these methods myself, and each has its own advantages depending on your preference and situation.
Online Payment Options for TCLP Customers
Credit/Debit Card Payments
The fastest and most convenient way to pay your Traverse City Light and Power bill is through their online payment system. TCLP makes this super easy:
- Visit the TCLP website (www.tclp.org)
- Click on “PAY NOW” under the Credit/Debit Card section
- Follow the prompts to complete your payment
What I really like about this option is that you can pay anytime, day or night, without worrying about mail delays or making it to the office during business hours. Plus, you’ll get an immediate confirmation that your payment was received.
Auto Pay: Never Miss a Payment Again
If you’re forgetful like me (or just busy!), Auto Pay is a lifesaver. With this option, TCLP automatically withdraws your payment amount on the due date.
To sign up:
- Go to the TCLP website
- Look for “AUTO PAY” and click “SIGN UP”
- Complete the enrollment process with your banking information
The best part? Once you set it up, you can pretty much forget about it. Your bill gets paid on time, every time, without you having to remember due dates.
Account Access
TCLP also offers an online account portal where you can:
- View your current and past bills
- Check your payment history
- Monitor your energy usage
To access these features, click on “LOGIN” under the Account Access section on their website If you haven’t created an account yet, you’ll need your account number from a recent bill to get started
Traditional Payment Methods
Not everyone prefers paying bills online, and TCLP understands that. They offer several traditional payment methods for those who prefer them.
Mail-In Payments
You can still pay your TCLP bill the old-fashioned way by mailing a check. Here’s what you need to do:
- Write a check payable to “Traverse City Light & Power”
- Include your remittance stub from the bill
- Mail to:
Traverse City Light & PowerP.O. Box 5920Traverse City, MI 49696
Just remember to allow enough time for mail delivery – I usually send mine at least 5-7 days before the due date to be safe.
Drop Box Locations
TCLP maintains convenient drop boxes where you can drop off your payment any time of day. The drop boxes are located at:
- In front of the Governmental Center (400 Boardman Avenue)
- The TCLP office (1131 Hastings Street)
When using the drop boxes, be sure to:
- Include your payment stub with your check
- Don’t leave cash in the drop box (checks or money orders only)
- Make sure your payment is securely in the box
I’ve used the drop box option several times when I was cutting it close to the deadline, and it’s super convenient for last-minute payments!
In-Person Payments
If you prefer face-to-face service or need to pay with cash, you can visit the TCLP Customer Service office in person:
Location: 1131 Hastings Street, Traverse City
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 4:30pm
When paying in person, you can use:
- Cash
- Check
- Credit card
- Money orders
The customer service reps are always friendly and helpful if you have questions about your bill or service.
Understanding Your TCLP Bill
Before paying your bill, it’s good to understand what you’re actually paying for. Your Traverse City Light and Power bill typically includes:
- Electricity usage charges
- Any applicable TCLPfiber services
- City utility fees (if applicable)
- Previous balance information
- Due date
If you ever have questions about your bill, TCLP has several resources to help:
- Online Billing Information – Available on their website
- Billing Questions – Call or email their customer service
- Payment Assistance – Programs available for those who qualify
- Rates Book – Detailed information about current rates
Need Help With Your TCLP Bill?
Sometimes we all need a little assistance, and TCLP offers several programs to help customers who are struggling to pay their bills:
- Residential Assistance Programs – Available for qualifying households
- Payment Plans – May be available by contacting customer service
- Energy Coaching Program – Get tips on reducing your energy usage
If you’re having trouble paying your bill, don’t wait until you’re facing a shutoff. Contact TCLP customer service at 231-922-4940 to discuss your options. I’ve found them to be really understanding when life throws you a curveball!
TCLP Contact Information
If you need to reach TCLP about your bill or payment options:
Physical Address: 1131 Hastings Street, Traverse City, MI 49686
Phone: 231-922-4940
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 4:30pm
There’s also a secondary location at:
130 Hall Street, Traverse City, MI 49684
Beyond Bill Payments: Other TCLP Services
While we’re focused on bill payments in this article, it’s worth mentioning that TCLP offers many other services that might interest you:
For Residential Customers
- Residential incentives
- Energy coaching program
- Time of Use billing options
- Customer generation programs
- Home Energy Saver tool
- TCLPfiber internet service
For Business Customers
- Commercial incentives
- Energy efficiency micro loans
- Business internet services
Tips for Managing Your TCLP Bill
As someone who’s been paying TCLP bills for years, I’ve picked up a few tips that might help you:
- Sign up for paperless billing – Get your bill faster and help the environment
- Set calendar reminders – If you don’t use Auto Pay, this helps avoid late fees
- Review your usage patterns – Understanding when you use the most electricity can help you reduce costs
- Consider budget billing – This can help even out seasonal fluctuations
- Look into energy efficiency programs – TCLP offers several programs that can help lower your bill
FAQs About TCLP Bill Payments
Q: When is my TCLP bill due?
A: Due dates are listed on your bill, but typically bills are due about 21 days after they’re issued.
Q: Is there a fee for paying online?
A: Check the current terms on the payment page as processing fees may apply for certain payment methods.
Q: What if I’m going to be late on my payment?
A: Contact TCLP customer service as soon as possible to discuss your options.
Q: Can I pay part of my bill now and the rest later?
A: Contact customer service to discuss partial payment options and payment arrangements.
Q: How do I report a power outage?
A: Call 231-922-4940 to report outages.
Final Thoughts
Paying your Traverse City Light and Power bill doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you prefer the convenience of online payments or the traditional methods of mail or in-person payments, TCLP offers several options to make the process as painless as possible.
I personally switched to Auto Pay a few years ago and haven’t looked back – no more worrying about due dates or late fees! But whatever method works best for you, the important thing is finding a system that helps you keep your account current.
Remember, if you ever have questions or concerns about your bill or payment options, don’t hesitate to contact TCLP customer service. They’re there to help!
This article was last updated in October 2025 with the most current information about TCLP payment options. Policies and procedures may change, so always check the official TCLP website for the most up-to-date information.
Go Paperless & Manage your Water & Sewer Utility Account Online
We encourage all customers to enroll in InvoiceCloud so you can better manage your account, maintain the most up-to-date payment information, online payment options, and view your utility usage.
Drop payment in the “Red Drop Box” that sits in front of the Governmental Center.
Please pay by check or money order if making a payment in our Drop Box.
If paying both utility bills, water/sewer and electric/fiber, two checks must be made out ot each entity i.e. City and Traverse City Light & Power.
Cash payments are not recommended.
City Treasurer Governmental Center 1st Floor 400 Boardman Ave Traverse City, MI 49684
Please pay by check or money order if making a payment by mail. Cash payments through the mail are not recommended.
Utility customers may be eligible for economic assistance from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Apply online at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/emergency-relief/eligibility or call 1-844-464-3447
Utility Bill Separation Implemented
Payment for utilities have separated. You will now receive one bill for water and sewer, and a separate bill for electric and fiber (if applicable).
The Citys utility billing program is through BS&A and payment gateway is InvoiceCloud.
Customer Service Hours: 8 am – 5 pm
Payment for water & sewer utilities may be made with a credit or debit card over the phone, online, or electronically through the options listed below:
The City accepts the following online payments at the water & sewer payment link
EFT (Check) payments at no fee
Credit/Debit Card payments (convenience fee of 2.95%, with a $1.95 minimum)
Google Pay payments (convenience fee of 2.95%, with a $1.95 minimum)
PayPal payments (convenience fee of 2.95%, with a $1.95 minimum)
Customers currently enrolled for auto-payment will see no change in your utility payment process. However, we encourage all customers to create an online account at Invoice Cloud so you can better manage your account and maintain the most up-to-date payment information.
