How to pay CenturyLink online, by phone, or by mail

CenturyLink (now Lumen Technologies) accepts payments through their website, by phone, through automatic bank transfers, or by mailing a check. The fastest method is online through your account portal, where payment posts within one business day. If you prefer not to use the internet, you can call their payment line or set up autopay so the bill withdraws automatically each month.

Your bill arrives by mail or email depending on your preference. The due date is printed on your statement. Paying after the due date typically triggers a late fee, though CenturyLink usually allows a grace period of a few days before reporting the account as past due to credit bureaus.

Key Takeaways

  • Online payment through your CenturyLink account is the fastest option and posts within one business day.
  • You can pay by phone at 1-800-CENTURYLINK (1-800-236-8879) using a debit card, credit card, or bank account.
  • Autopay removes the need to remember due dates and can be set up through your online account or by calling customer service.
  • Mailed checks should be sent to the address on your bill and take 7 to 10 business days to post.
  • Late fees and service suspension typically occur if payment is not received within 15 to 20 days after the due date, depending on your state.

Paying online through your CenturyLink account

Log into your account at centurylink.com or through the Lumen app. Click on "Billing" or "Pay My Bill" and enter the amount you want to pay. You can pay the full balance, the minimum due, or a custom amount. CenturyLink accepts debit cards, credit cards, and bank account transfers from this portal.

Online payments post within one business day. If you need the payment to reach your account faster, call the payment line instead, as phone payments sometimes process the same day. Keep your confirmation number for your records.

Setting up automatic payments (autopay)

Autopay withdraws your bill amount automatically on your due date each month, so you never miss a payment. Set it up in your online account under "Billing" or "Payment Methods," or call 1-800-236-8879 and ask a representative to enable it for you.

You can choose to pay the full bill amount or a set dollar amount each month. You can pause or cancel autopay anytime through your account settings. If your bill amount changes (for example, if you add a service), autopay will deduct the new total on the next billing cycle.

Paying by phone

Call 1-800-236-8879 to speak with a representative or use the automated payment system. Have your account number and a debit card, credit card, or bank account information ready. Phone payments typically process the same day, though they may take up to one business day to appear in your account.

There is no fee to pay by phone with a debit card or bank account. Credit card payments may carry a processing fee, which CenturyLink will disclose before you complete the transaction.

Paying by mail

Write a check or money order with your account number on the back. Mail it to the address printed on your bill statement. Do not send cash through the mail. Allow 7 to 10 business days for a mailed payment to post to your account.

If you are close to your due date, mailing a check is the slowest option and risks a late fee if it does not arrive in time. Use this method only if you have paid well before the due date or if you do not have access to online or phone payment.

What happens if you miss a payment

A late fee is added to your account if payment is not received by the due date. The amount varies by state and service type. After 15 to 20 days past due (depending on your state), CenturyLink may suspend your service without further notice. You will need to pay the full past-due balance plus any late fees and reconnection fees to restore service.

If your account remains unpaid for 30 to 60 days, CenturyLink may report it to credit bureaus, which damages your credit score. Contact CenturyLink immediately if you cannot pay on time to discuss payment plans or hardship options.

Payment plans and hardship options

If you are unable to pay your full bill, call 1-800-236-8879 and explain your situation. CenturyLink may offer a payment plan that spreads your balance over several months. Some customers also may have access to for reduced rates through the Lifeline program if they receive certain government assistance.

Payment plans do not erase late fees already applied, but they can prevent service suspension while you catch up. Ask the representative what documentation they need to set up a plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my CenturyLink bill with a credit card online?

Yes, you can pay with a credit card through your online account or by phone. Some credit card companies charge a cash advance fee for utility payments, so check with your card issuer first. Debit cards and bank account transfers do not carry this fee.

What time of day does my autopay payment process?

CenturyLink does not specify an exact time. Autopay withdrawals typically occur sometime during the business day on your due date. If your due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment processes on the next business day.

How do I change or cancel my autopay?

Log into your account and go to "Payment Methods" or "Billing," then select "Manage Autopay." You can pause it for one month, change the payment amount, or cancel it entirely. Changes take effect on your next billing cycle.

Is there a fee to pay my bill online?

No. CenturyLink does not charge a fee for online payments made through their website or app. Credit card payments by phone may include a processing fee, which they will tell you before you confirm the payment.

What should I do if my payment was not received?

Check your account online to see if the payment posted. If you paid by mail, allow 10 business days. If you paid online or by phone and it has been more than one business day, call 1-800-236-8879 with your confirmation number and ask them to locate the payment.