Seattle won't interrupt public utility services for those impacted by COVID-19 outbreak

Mayor Jenny Durkan announced Tuesday afternoon that Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities will keep services going throughout the city's COVID-19 emergency.

Tuesday's announcements mean that both residential and commercial customers financially impacted by the coronavirus outbreak will receive relief if they can't immediately pay their utility service charges.

Affected customers of both entities can set up deferred payment plans and continue receiving services for the duration of the COVID-19 Civil Emergency, which Durkan proclaimed last week.

Moreover, Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities offer a discount program for income-eligible customers, which allows residential customers to self-report their household income without providing additional documentation. Those who qualify for the Utility Discount Program can access utilities at a 50 to 60 percent discount rate.

Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities are slated to begin reaching out to small and mid-size businesses this week that may be experiencing financial hits. Additionally, legislation that would eliminate a one percent late fee for all past due balances is also expected to move forward this week, according to the Mayor's Office.

Customers who have been financially impacted by COVID-19 can set up payment plans with either service provider by calling 206-684-3000 or sending an email here.