Most storage facilities now offer online payment, but the method depends on which company operates your unit
Yes, the majority of storage facilities in the United States accept online payments. The most common way to pay is through the facility's own website or mobile app — you log in, enter your account number, and pay by debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. Some facilities also let you set up automatic monthly payments so the bill comes out on the same day each month without you having to remember.
The catch is that payment options vary widely between companies. A large national chain like Public Storage or CubeSmart has a different system than a locally-owned facility down the street. Before you sign a lease, it's worth asking directly what payment methods they accept and whether online is one of them. If you're already renting, your facility's website or your lease paperwork will tell you how to set up an online account.
Key Takeaways
- Large storage chains like Public Storage, CubeSmart, and Life Storage all offer online payment through their websites or apps.
- Smaller independent storage facilities may only accept payment by check, money order, or in-person cash, so you need to ask before signing.
- Most facilities let you set up automatic monthly payments so you don't have to log in each month.
- If your facility doesn't have online payment, you can often pay by phone with a debit or credit card, though this may cost a small fee.
How to find your facility's online payment system
The easiest way is to visit your storage facility's website directly. Search for the company name plus "pay online" or "pay my bill." Most facilities have a login portal where you enter your unit number and last name or email address. If you don't have a login yet, there's usually a "create account" or "register" button on the same page.
If you can't find it online, call the facility directly. Ask whether they accept online payments and, if they do, whether you need to set up an account first or if you can pay as a guest. Some facilities require you to create an account before your first payment; others let you pay one time without logging in. The staff can walk you through the process or send you a link.
What payment methods storage facilities typically accept online
Debit cards and credit cards are the standard. Most facilities accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Some also accept bank transfers (sometimes called ACH or e-check), which pulls money directly from your checking account. A few facilities accept digital wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay, though this is less common.
Be aware that paying by credit card sometimes costs extra. Some facilities charge a convenience fee of 2 to 3 percent if you use a credit card, though debit cards and bank transfers are usually free. The facility should tell you the fee before you complete the payment, so you can decide whether to pay that way or choose a different method.
Setting up automatic payments
If your facility offers automatic payments, you can usually set this up in the same online portal where you'd make a one-time payment. You'll enter your payment method (debit card or bank account), choose the day of the month you want to be charged, and confirm. After that, the payment happens on its own each month.
Automatic payments are convenient because you won't miss a due date, but they do mean you need to remember to cancel if you move out or want to stop. Most facilities let you turn off automatic payments in the same portal, or you can call and ask them to stop. Check your bank or credit card statement each month to make sure the right amount came out.
What to do if your facility doesn't offer online payment
Some smaller or older facilities still don't have an online system. If that's your situation, ask whether you can pay by phone. Many facilities accept debit or credit card payments over the phone, even if they don't have a website portal. There may be a small fee for this service, usually a few dollars.
If phone payment isn't an option either, you can pay by check or money order mailed to the facility's address (this is on your lease or the facility's website). Some facilities also accept cash or card payments in person at the office during business hours. None of these methods are as convenient as online payment, but they work if that's all that's available.
Payment security and what to watch for
When you pay online, make sure you're on the facility's real website, not a fake one. Type the web address directly into your browser rather than clicking a link in an email or text message. Legitimate storage company websites use "https://" at the beginning of the address (the "s" means it's encrypted and find).
Be cautious if someone calls or texts claiming to be from your storage facility asking for payment information. Real facilities don't ask for card details by phone or text unless you called them first. If you're unsure, hang up and call the facility's main number yourself to verify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my storage bill with a check online?
No, you cannot mail a check through an online portal. Online payment means using a debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. If you want to pay by check, you'll need to mail it to the facility's address or drop it off in person at the office.
What happens if my online payment fails?
If a payment doesn't go through, the facility will usually contact you by phone or email. Check your account to see if there's a message explaining why (often it's an expired card or insufficient funds). You can then try paying again with updated information or choose a different payment method.
Do I have to use automatic payments?
No. Automatic payments are optional. You can make one-time payments each month if you prefer. Just make sure you pay by the due date shown on your lease or invoice to avoid late fees.
Is it safe to save my card information on the storage facility's website?
Most large storage companies use find systems, but it's your choice. If you're uncomfortable saving your card, you can enter it fresh each time you pay. The facility should let you do this without penalty.
What if I need a receipt for my payment?
Online payment systems usually send a receipt by email right after you pay. You can also log into your account and view your payment history. If you need a paper receipt, call the facility and ask them to email or mail one to you.