City of Austin Utilities launches new cash payment option at local retailers

August 8, 2025

City of Austin Utilities customers now have a more convenient way to pay their utility bills in cash — no bank account or credit card required.

Through a partnership with third-party vendor, Paymentus, customers can select “cash” as their payment method in the Paymentus Quick Pay online portal and then pay their bill at popular neighborhood retailers, including CVS, Dollar General, Office Depot and Walgreens. After selecting the option, customers receive a barcode by text or email, which can be scanned at any open register during store hours. A $2.95 convenience fee applies. All cash payments post immediately, even outside of regular business hours.

“This new option provides added flexibility for customers who prefer to pay with cash,” said Sandra Escobedo, Austin Energy Vice President of Customer Account Management. “With expanded hours and additional retail locations, it’s now easier than ever to stay current on your utility bill — even late at night or on weekends.”

Cash payments are accepted at Utility Customer Service Centers with no convenience fee, and at retailers like H-E-B, Walmart and Walgreens through Western Union — but only during limited service desk hours. The new option with Paymentus allows cash payments to be made at any register during regular store hours, often well beyond traditional business times.

For example, a customer could walk into a 24-hour Walgreens at 11 p.m. on the day their bill is due, scan the barcode, pay in cash and have their payment posted immediately — ensuring on-time payment.

Learn more at coautilities.com/go/paywithcash.