초록 ▼

Computerized billing and payment authorization methods and systems are described. In one aspect, a host system includes a database in which information associated with a billable entity from which payment is to be received is stored. Billing information is received from a billing entity and is assoc

Computerized billing and payment authorization methods and systems are described. In one aspect, a host system includes a database in which information associated with a billable entity from which payment is to be received is stored. Billing information is received from a billing entity and is associated with a bill for payment by the billable entity. The billable entity is provided with remote electronic access to the billing information in the host computer and can authorization payment thereof. In one implementation, the billing information is scrutinized in accordance with pre-determined tolerance parameters prior to the billable entity gaining access thereto. In another implementation, a plurality of billing entities provide billing information to the host system, with the billing information being subsequently checked and consolidated into a consolidated amount which can be remotely accessed by the billable entity. In a preferred implementation a plurality of utility providers are incorporated into the system and providing billing information for customers which may have a number of different, geographically-separated sites being serviced by different utilities. The billing information is consolidated and made available electronically through access which is initiated by the customer. Preferably, the systems and methodologies of the invention are implemented in connection with a multi-user computer network such as the Internet.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] A computerized billing and payment authorization method comprising:defining a database in a host computer;storing in said database information associated with a billable entity from which payment authorization is to be received;receiving billing information into said host computer

[ We claim:] [1.] A computerized billing and payment authorization method comprising:defining a database in a host computer;storing in said database information associated with a billable entity from which payment authorization is to be received;receiving billing information into said host computer from a billing entity, said billing information being associated with a bill for payment by said billable entity to said billing entity, said billing information including an amount said billable entity is to pay;providing said billable entity with remote electronic access to said billing information in said host computer wherein said billable entity can receive said billing information and authorize payment thereof; andprior to providing said billable entity with remote electronic access, performing an audit of said billing information against pre-determined tolerance parameters and determining whether said billing information satisfies said tolerance parameters.