Understanding how Tampa Electric bills you helps you manage your account and budget effectively.
Billing Cycle Basics
Billing Cycle Length: TECO bills monthly, but cycle lengths vary slightly:
- Most cycles are 28-32 days
- Your specific cycle depends on your meter reading route
- Bills are generated 1-3 days after the meter read
When Bills Are Due:
- Payment is due approximately 20 days after the bill date
- Late payments incur a 1.5% penalty
- Service disconnection can occur after 20+ days past due
Payment Options
TECO offers multiple ways to pay:
- Online: Through tampaelectric.com or the TECO app
- AutoPay: Automatic bank draft or credit card
- Phone: Call TECO's automated payment line
- Mail: Send check to the address on your bill
- In Person: Authorized payment locations
Budget Billing
TECO's Budget Billing program averages your annual costs:
- Pay the same amount each month
- Reviewed and adjusted periodically
- Helps avoid summer bill shock
- No additional fees
Payment Assistance
If you're struggling to pay:
- Payment arrangements: Spread past-due amounts over time
- LIHEAP: Federal assistance for qualifying households
- TECO SHARE: Customer-funded assistance program
- Senior/disability discounts: Reduced rates for qualifying customers