TBC
Recurring Credit Card payment
From 1 July 2026, a 0.8% transaction fee will apply to water bills paid using a recurring credit card. If your water bill is automatically paid by credit card, this transaction fee will be added to your payment from 1 July.
This reflects the processing fee charged to Watercare by banks and our payment provider.
To avoid the transaction fee, you will need to change your payment method before 30 June 2026.
- To switch to direct debit: You can update your payment details through MyAccount if you wish to switch to direct debit.
- For any other payment method (not direct debit): If you would like to cancel the recurring credit and pay via another payment method (not direct debit), please complete the online form below. Alternatively, you can contact our Billing team on LiveChat.
If you have any questions, please first check our Frequently Asked Questions below, or reach out to the team via the LiveChat.
Why is this fee being introduced?
When customers pay by credit card, banks and card providers charge processing fees. These fees have increased over time.
Until now, Watercare has covered these costs, meaning all customers have contributed toward a service that only some customers use. Introducing this fee means the cost is paid only by customers who choose to use credit card payments. This helps keep overall water charges as low as possible and aligns with how most other utility providers operate.
Who does this effect?
Only customers who use recurring credit card payments.
Most customers already use fee free payment options such as direct debit or bank payments and will not be affected.
How much is the transaction fee?
A 0.8% transaction fee will apply to recurring credit card payments.
How can I avoid paying the transaction fee?
You can switch to a feefree payment option, such as:
- Direct debit (recommended)
- Online bank payment
- Automatic payment set up through your bank
- Account-to-Account (A2A) payment
How do I change my payment method?
If you would like to change your payment method to Direct Debit, you can do this by logging into your MyAccount and updating or changing your payment details, at any time.
If you would like to use another payment method, you will need to contact our Billing team on LiveChat or online form as soon as possible to allow time for the change to be processed.
Why doesn’t Watercare continue to absorb the cost?
Covering the cost would mean all customers pay for a service only some customers use. Recovering the fee helps keep charges fair and water bills lower overall.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Watercare website for the latest information about payment options and transaction fees, or contact us if you need help choosing the best payment method for you.