Where to pay your Black Hills Energy bill
Black Hills Energy operates in multiple states, and your payment options depend on which state you live in. The company accepts payments through their website, by phone, through automatic bank transfers, and by mail. You can also pay in person at authorized payment locations in some service areas.
The fastest way to pay is online at the Black Hills Energy website for your state — search for "Black Hills Energy" plus your state name to reach the correct regional site. You'll need your account number, which appears on your bill. Online payment typically posts within one business day.
If you prefer not to use the website, you can call the customer service number on your bill to pay by phone with a debit or credit card. Phone payments also process quickly, usually the same day if you call before the cutoff time listed on your statement.
Key Takeaways
- Black Hills Energy bills can be paid online, by phone, through automatic bank draft, or by mail, depending on your state's service area.
- Your account number on your bill is required for any payment method you choose.
- Online and phone payments typically post within one business day, while mailed checks take 7 to 10 days to reach the company.
- Setting up automatic payments through your bank account removes the risk of late fees and ensures your bill is paid on schedule.
- Late payment fees vary by state and are listed on your bill or in your service agreement.
Setting up automatic payments from your bank account
Automatic bank draft is the most reliable way to avoid missed payments. You authorize Black Hills Energy to withdraw the amount due directly from your checking or savings account on a date you choose — usually around your due date.
To set this up, log into your account on the Black Hills Energy website and look for "Auto Pay" or "Automatic Payment" in the billing section. You'll enter your bank routing number and account number. Some customers prefer to call customer service instead and have a representative set it up over the phone.
Once automatic payments are active, you can still view your bill online and adjust the payment date if needed. If your bill amount changes significantly month to month, you can choose to have a fixed amount withdrawn or the full bill amount each month.
Understanding your bill due date and late payment fees
Your bill due date appears clearly on the front of your statement. Black Hills Energy typically gives you 20 to 25 days from the bill date to pay before a late fee applies. The exact number of days depends on your state's regulations.
Late payment fees are not the same across all Black Hills Energy service areas. Your bill or your service agreement shows the specific late fee amount for your account. Some states cap late fees at a percentage of your bill; others allow a flat fee. If you're unsure, call the number on your bill and ask what the late fee is for your account.
If you know you'll miss the due date, contact Black Hills Energy before the deadline. Some areas offer short-term extensions or budget billing plans that can help spread costs over the year and reduce the risk of a large bill catching you off guard.
Paying by mail or at authorized locations
If you prefer to pay by check or money order, mail your payment to the address shown on your bill. Include your account number on the check and allow 7 to 10 business days for the payment to arrive and post to your account. Mailing a payment close to the due date risks a late fee if the check hasn't cleared by then.
Some Black Hills Energy service areas allow in-person payments at authorized payment centers, convenience stores, or utility offices. Call the customer service number on your bill to find payment locations near you. In-person payments usually post the same day.
What to do if you can't pay your full bill
If you're unable to pay your bill in full by the due date, contact Black Hills Energy before the deadline. The company may offer a payment plan that lets you split the amount into smaller installments over several weeks or months.
Black Hills Energy also participates in energy assistance programs in some states. These programs help households with low income cover part or all of their bill. Contact your local community action agency or search your state's energy assistance program to learn what's available in your area.
If you're struggling with utility costs, ask about budget billing when you call. This plan averages your annual energy use and spreads the cost evenly across 12 months, which can make bills more predictable and easier to manage.
Checking your payment status and account balance
After you make a payment, you can check whether it has posted by logging into your online account or calling customer service. Online accounts usually show payment status within 24 hours. Your current balance and next due date are also visible in your account.
Keep your account number handy when you call or log in. If you've recently moved or changed your contact information, update it in your account to ensure you receive bills and payment reminders on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Black Hills Energy bill with a credit card online?
Yes, Black Hills Energy accepts credit and debit cards for online payments through their website. Some payment methods may charge a small convenience fee, which will be shown before you confirm the payment. Check your state's Black Hills Energy website for current payment methods and any associated fees.
What happens if I pay after the due date?
A late fee will be added to your account if payment is not received by the due date shown on your bill. The amount varies by state. If you're more than 30 days late, Black Hills Energy may disconnect your service. Contact the company immediately if you've missed a payment to discuss a plan.
How long does it take for an online payment to show up?
Online payments typically post within one business day. If you pay on a weekend or holiday, the payment may not process until the next business day. For payments needed urgently, call customer service to pay by phone, which often processes the same day.
Can I change my automatic payment date?
Yes, you can adjust your automatic payment date through your online account or by calling customer service. Most customers choose a date shortly after they receive their paycheck to ensure funds are available. You can also pause or cancel automatic payments at any time.
What if I overpaid my bill?
If your account has a credit balance, Black Hills Energy will apply it to your next bill. If you prefer a refund, contact customer service and request one. Refunds typically take one to two billing cycles to process.