How To Pay Water Bill Using CBE Birr?

Let’s face it, dealing with utility payments in Ethiopia used to be a real chore. Long lines, wasted time… it was a headache. But since 2023, things have changed dramatically. Digitalization has swept through our utility payments, and I, as a CBE Birr user, can tell you it’s been a game-changer. Among the many financial institutions now handling water bills, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) stands out, especially with their CBE Birr app. It’s truly made my life easier.

Why is CBE Birr so useful? It’s simple: convenience. No more rushing to pay in person. No more worrying about closing hours. You can pay your water bill from the comfort of your home, anytime, anywhere. And honestly, everyone should be using it. It transforms utility payments from a dreaded task to a quick, efficient process. It’s not just about paying bills; it’s about reclaiming your time and simplifying your life.

So, how do you get started? Let me walk you through it.

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Requirements to Open a CBE Birr Account

Opening a CBE Birr account is surprisingly easy. Whether you head to a CBE branch or visit an authorized agent, you’ll need:

• A valid ID: Your Kebele ID, Ethiopian Passport, or National ID will do.
• An active mobile number: This is crucial for account verification and transactions.
• Basic reading and writing skills: Just enough to navigate the app or USSD menu.

That’s it! Once you have these, you’re good to go.

Accessing Your CBE Birr Account

You have two options:

• USSD: Perfect for those with basic phones or in areas with limited internet.
• Mobile App: Ideal for smartphone users, available on both iOS and Android.

Activating Your CBE Birr Account

Using USSD:

1. Dial *847#.
2. Enter your PIN.
3. You’ll be directed to your CBE Birr dashboard.

Using the Mobile App:

1. Download the CBE Birr app from your app store.
2. Enter your mobile number and tap “Next.”
3. Create a strong password.
4. Enable fingerprint authentication for extra security.
5. You’re in!

How to Pay Your Water Bill Using CBE Birr

Now, for the main event: paying your water bill.

Using USSD:

1. Dial *847# and enter your PIN.
2. Select “5” for “Pay Bill from list.”
3. Select “5” for “Webirr Again from list.”
4. Enter your water utility code (payment code).
5. Confirm the payment and you’re done.

Using the Mobile App:

1. Open the CBE Birr app and log in.
2. Tap “Pay” at the bottom left.
3. Select “Water Supply.”
4. Choose your town or city.
5. Important: Leave the shortcode as is. Enter your bill reference number.
6. Confirm and pay.

See? It’s that simple. CBE Birr has truly transformed how I handle my utility payments, and I’m sure it’ll do the same for you.

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Alright, Now let’s go into some details of CBE Birr and figure out which access method, USSD or the app, is right for you. As a fellow user, I know these choices can be a bit confusing at first.

So, what’s the real difference?

USSD: The Classic and Reliable Option

Think of USSD as the reliable old workhorse. It’s the way to go if you’re using a basic phone or if you’re in an area with spotty internet. You dial *847#, navigate through menus, and get things done. It’s straightforward and functional.

• Advantages:
  • Works on any phone.
  • Requires no internet.
  • Simple and direct.
• Drawbacks:
  • Menu-driven, which can be a bit slow.
  • Limited features compared to the app.
  • Hard to navigate for first time users.

CBE Birr App with Feature Modern Choice

The CBE Birr app, on the other hand, is the sleek, modern option. It’s packed with features, has a user-friendly interface, and makes transactions a breeze. If you’ve got a smartphone and reliable internet, this is definitely the way to go.

• Advantages:
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
  • Access to all CBE Birr features.
  • More secure with fingerprint authentication.
  • Faster transaction compared to USSD.
• Drawbacks:
  • Requires a smartphone and internet.
  • App updates might be necessary.
  • Requires more data usage.

Which One to Choose?

Honestly, which one to use from depends down to your personal needs and circumstances.

• If you’re using a basic phone or often find yourself in areas with poor internet, USSD is your best bet. It’s reliable and gets the job done.
• If you have a smartphone and want a more convenient and feature-rich experience, the CBE Birr app is the way to go. It’s faster, more intuitive, and offers a wider range of functionalities.

Personally, I use the app whenever possible. It’s just so much faster and easier. But I also appreciate having the USSD option as a backup, especially when internet connectivity is unreliable. It’s all about having options, right?

Ultimately, both USSD and the CBE Birr app are valuable tools for managing your finances. So Choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and enjoy the convenience of digital payments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)