Beginning July 2025, a convenience fee of 2.85% will be applied to all payments made using Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. This fee applies to payments made:

• Online via autopay or one time payment
• Via the automated phone system
• In person

How will this affect my utility bill?

• If you pay by personal check or money order, you will not be charged the additional fee.
• If you pay using a bill pay option offered by your bank such as an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) or Automated Clearing House (ACH) transaction, you will not be charged the additional fee.
• If you pay online with a credit or debit card, you will be charged a 2.85% convenience fee unless you elect to change your payment method.
• For those who elected autopay via credit or debit card, you will be charged the new convenience fee based on the payment method.

EXAMPLE (Based on a bill of $160 for both water and wastewater)

• Pay by personal check/money order/online bill pay offered by your bank = $160 ($0 fee)
• Payment made online with a credit/debit card = Total bill: $160 + $4.56 (2.85% fee) = $164.56

1. How can I avoid paying a fee?

Phone and online payments made by Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are subject to a convenience fee of 2.85%. To avoid paying this fee, we encourage you to use one of our no fee options listed below:

• Automatic Bank Draft (AutoPay) – Payment deducted from your checking account
• Online One-Time E-Check Payment – Make an online payment with your bank and routing number
• Electronic Bill Pay – Payment initiated from your banking institution using your bill pay feature
• Mail a check to:

City of Newport Beach
PO Box 4923
Whittier, CA 90607-4923

2. Why is the City now charging a convenience fee? 

Credit/debit card processors charge the City a fee for each transaction. Previously, the City absorbed this cost. To keep utility rates low, the City will now pass this fee on to customers who choose this payment method. Alternative, no-fee options remain available.

3. When will this change take place? 

Convenience fees will apply starting in July 2025.

4. Will I be charged a fee for using a debit card online? 

Yes. Debit cards are processed like credit cards, so the 2.85% convenience fee will apply.

5. How much is the convenience fee? 

The fee is 2.85% of the total bill amount for payments made using a credit or debit card.

6. Where can I mail my payment? 

Customers may also mail check or money order payments to:

City of Newport Beach
PO Box 4923
Whittier, CA 90607-4923

7. I’m on AutoPay with a credit or debit card—can I opt out of the fee?

No. To avoid the fee, you must change your AutoPay method to a bank draft (ACH). You can update your payment method by logging into your account or calling the Revenue Division at 949-644-3037.

8. I’m on AutoPay – will this impact me?

Yes. Starting July 2025, AutoPay transactions using a credit or debit card will include the 2.85% fee. AutoPay from a bank account (ACH) remains fee-free.