Call BGE's automated payment line to pay by phone using your account number and a debit or credit card
BGE's phone payment system lets you pay your electric or gas bill without logging into a website or visiting an office. You call a dedicated number, enter your account information, and complete the payment in a few minutes. The system accepts debit cards, credit cards, and bank account transfers.
Payment goes through immediately, and you'll receive a confirmation number before you hang up. Keep that number for your records — it proves the payment was processed on that date. BGE applies the payment to your account within one business day.
Key Takeaways
- BGE's phone payment line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and you do not need to speak to a representative.
- You will need your BGE account number (found on your bill) and a valid debit card, credit card, or bank account information.
- The system gives you a confirmation number immediately, which you should write down or screenshot for your records.
- Payments processed by phone typically post to your account within one business day.
- BGE charges a convenience fee for credit card payments but not for debit card or bank account payments.
The phone number and what to have ready
Call 1-888-685-0123 to reach BGE's automated payment system. This number works for both electric and gas customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
Before you call, gather your BGE account number. It appears on your bill in the upper right corner or on your account statement. You will also need the payment method you want to use: a debit card, credit card, or bank account number and routing number if you are paying from a checking or savings account.
Have the amount you want to pay in mind. You can pay your full balance, a partial amount, or a set dollar figure. The system will confirm the amount before you complete the transaction.
Step-by-step payment process
When you call, the automated system will ask you to enter your account number using your phone keypad. It will then read back your account information and current balance to confirm you have reached the right account.
Next, you will enter the amount you want to pay. The system will ask whether you want to pay from a bank account, debit card, or credit card. If you choose a bank account, enter your routing number and account number. For a card, enter the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back.
The system will display the total amount, including any convenience fee, and ask you to confirm. Once you confirm, the payment processes immediately. Write down or take a photo of the confirmation number the system provides — this is your proof of payment.
Convenience fees and payment timing
BGE charges a convenience fee only when you pay with a credit card. The fee is a percentage of your payment amount and varies depending on the card type and the payment method. Debit card payments and bank account transfers have no convenience fee.
The payment is deducted from your card or account the same day you call. BGE posts the payment to your account within one business day, so your balance updates by the next day in most cases. If you call on a weekend or holiday, the payment still processes, but posting may take until the next business day.
What to do if the call does not go through
If you reach a busy signal or the system disconnects, try calling again. BGE's system handles high call volume during bill payment periods, so calling early in the morning or late in the evening may result in a faster connection.
If you receive an error message about your account number or payment method, double-check that you entered the information correctly. Account numbers are case-sensitive in some systems, and card numbers must be entered without spaces or dashes. If the problem persists, you can pay online through BGE's website or contact customer service during business hours for assistance with phone payment.
Keeping a record of your payment
The confirmation number you receive is your only immediate proof that the payment was processed. Write it down, take a screenshot, or save the number in your phone right after you hang up. Include the date, time, amount, and confirmation number.
Check your BGE account online or on your next bill to confirm the payment posted. If more than two business days pass and the payment does not appear, contact BGE customer service with your confirmation number. They can look up the payment and confirm it was received.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay someone else's BGE bill by phone?
No. The automated system requires the account number of the bill you are paying, and BGE does not allow third-party payments through the phone line. If you need to pay another person's bill, contact BGE customer service to discuss options, or ask the account holder to authorize you as a payment contact on their account.
What if I do not have my account number?
You can find your account number on your BGE bill, on your online account dashboard, or on any recent statement. If you cannot locate it, call BGE customer service at 1-888-685-0123 during business hours and ask for your account number. Have your service address and phone number ready.
Is paying by phone safer than paying online?
Both methods are secure. Phone payments use the same encryption as online payments. The main difference is that phone payments are processed by an automated system, while online payments go through BGE's website. Neither method is inherently safer — both protect your card or account information.
Can I set up automatic payments by phone?
No. The phone line handles one-time payments only. To set up automatic monthly payments, you will need to log into your BGE account online or contact customer service. Automatic payments can be scheduled from a bank account or debit card.
What happens if I pay more than I owe?
BGE will credit the overpayment to your account. The credit applies to your next bill. If you overpay significantly or want a refund instead, contact BGE customer service to request one. Refunds are typically issued within two to four weeks.