Frequently Asked Questions

What information is needed when signing up for utility service?

Applications can be made in person or over the phone.  Proof of Identification which could include social security number, driver’s license or other picture ID is required to set up an account.  A deposit may be required based off past payment history with the City of Hamilton or other utility companies.

How do I pay online? 

Payments can be made online by going to Pay My Utilities link on the home page.  To sign up for an account that will let you save payment methods, link accounts and receive paperless bills click here.

Do you offer any remote payment options?

The City of Hamilton has installed two self-serve kiosks to provide customers with a convenient option for paying their utility bills with more flexible hours.  The kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and checks.

Locations

AllWealth Federal Credit Union (Drive Thru)

Address: 200 N Brookwood Avenue, Hamilton, Ohio 45013

Hours: Available 24/7

City Hall (Outside Utilities Customer Service Lobby)

Address: 345 High Street, Hamilton, Ohio 45011

Hours: 7:30AM-7:00PM, Monday-Friday

How do I set up Paperless Billing or Automatic Payments? Can I save my payment method so I don’t have to enter it next month?

Click here for information on setting up an online payment account.

What is Budget Billing?

Budget Billing is a payment plan available to City of Hamilton utility customers. The program spreads out the cost of utilities (electric, gas, water, wastewater) used during high-demand times of the year. Instead of seeing an increase in winter heating bills or summer cooling bills, Budget Billing breaks down total yearly usage into manageable monthly bills.  The budget billing amount is calculated by taking the previous 12 months of account history and dividing by 11.  This method helps even out the impact of the variable Ohio weather. Click here for additional information.

Can I change my due date?  

The Qualified Payment Plan (QPP) allows a customer on a fixed income and whose only source of income is benefits under Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability, Railroad Pensions, Veteran’s Pension and/or Disability, Disability Black Lung, or any other retirement and/or pension program to defer payments until after the first of each month without incurring a penalty for late payment.  At the time of application, the customer’s account must be current (a zero balance or a balance consisting of only their current bill which is due but not yet past its final due date).  Click here for additional information and application.

How can I get utility assistance?  

Several community and state organizations offer utility assistance some of the resources include HEAP (1-800-282-0880), SELF (513-868-9300), Salvation Army (513-863-1445), Butler County Veterans (513-887-3600), St Vincent DePaul and other area churches.

Do you offer assistance for low income families?

The City of Hamilton does not directly offer assistance to low income families.  We do offer assistance in providing the information needed for local agencies such as SELF and the state assistance program HEAP.  Hamilton does offer a program where customers can donate by rounding up or signing up for recurring monthly donations.  Funds are then sent to the Hamilton Community Foundation for distribution to local agencies such as the Salvation Army.

How do you donate to Empower Hamilton?

EmPower Hamilton helps local families in need through the Salvation Army and the Emergency Money Fund utility support programs. These programs play a critical role by helping Hamilton residents avoid service disconnections in times of need. EmPower Hamilton allows Hamilton Utility customers to make direct contributions to our partner organizations through their monthly utility bills. 100% of these donations are forwarded to the Hamilton Community Foundation for use by the Salvation Army and the Emergency Money Fund to help those in need in our community.  To donate you can either round up and include the information on the payment stub mailed in each month, make a direct donation on line or call our office at 513-785-7100 and sign up for recurring monthly donations that will be automatically added to your monthly billed total each month.

What do I do if my trash cart is stolen?  

If your trash or recycle carts are stolen, please contact Rumpke at the Hamilton Transfer Station at 513-867-8661.  They will require a form to be completed and will arrange to replace your cart.

How do I report a street light that is out?

Street Lights that are malfunctioning or burned out can be reported using the City’s 311 system or by calling 513-785-7550 option 3 then 2.

Why is my bill so high? 

Several things can impact the amount you owe.  Seasonal high or low outside temperatures can result in higher usage and higher bills.  Click here for ways to reduce energy usage in summer or winter.  Another factor is high water usage can result in higher bills.  Leaking toilets and faucets are usually the cause of higher water usage.  Checking to make sure your water supply sources are not leaking is a key way to ensure lower water usage.

Can I have an extension on my utility bill due date?

Extensions are granted on a case by case basis usually for no more than an additional week.  Please call our office at 513-785-7100 for assistance.