Delinquency research · dataset 2026.08
Shut-off and delinquency information for City of Mercedes Utilities Department / Utility Billing
Only provider-specific public findings are stated as policy. A missing field is not replaced with a rule borrowed from another utility.
Provider-specific findings
Delinquency research for this provider
The notes below may document a rule or explain a specific public-information limit. Any active notice and direct provider confirmation remain controlling.
- Grace period
- Bills are due 15 calendar days from issuance. If unpaid seven days after the due date, the account is delinquent and service may be terminated without further notice.
- Late-fee rules
- A 10% penalty is added to the original bill when payment is not received by the 15-day due date. The ordinance also imposes a $30 NSF charge per returned check and a $35 meter-reread service call when the City's initial reading is correct.
- Shut-off timeline
- The ordinance provides a short progression: bill issued, 15 calendar days to pay, 10% penalty after the due date, then termination without further notice if the account remains unpaid for seven additional days. Full utility and garbage charges must be paid before service is reconnected.
- Warning and notice protocol
- The code states that service may be terminated without further notice after seven days past the due date. It does not document automated calls, texts, colored paper, or door hangers. Customers may request a payment arrangement through Utility Billing; three failed arrangements in twelve months end eligibility for additional arrangements and disconnection commences.
- Reconnection costs
- The current ordinance charges $35 to reinstate an account during normal business hours and $50 after hours. A separate older restoration provision lists $5, but the current late/termination section is the more specific schedule and should be confirmed with Utility Billing before payment.
Documentation context
5 of 5 fields found
This is a record-completeness measure, not a customer-protection grade.
Texas
53%
records with any shut-off detail
National
34%
records with any shut-off detail
Research record
Broad public detail found
5 of 5 fields in this section contain provider-specific public detail in dataset August 1, 2026.
Documented
100%
Primary verification routes
- City of Mercedes Utilities Department / Utility Billing public website ↗
Provider-controlled destination used to confirm current customer instructions.
- EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System ↗
Federal background on public water-system records and their limitations.