Start a conversation about rent repayment
- English
- Español
Eviction can be costly and difficult for renters and landlords. In addition to applying for rental assistance, renters and landlords may benefit from having a conversation about options for a repayment plan.
Have you applied for rental assistance?
Some state and local programs distribute money to help cover housing costs.
Landlords are part of the process.
Many rental assistance programs accept applications from both landlords and renters. Where renters can apply, they often need help from landlords to complete the application process.
Working together, you’ll have a better chance of getting rental assistance funds.
| Options | How it works | When this is a good option |
|---|---|---|
Adjust due dates |
Rent due dates are changed to align better with payday, or split into multiple payments over the month. |
Renters who are juggling multiple bills may find it hard to come up with the full rent payment on the first of the month. It might be easier to break rent payments into two smaller payments each month. |
Waive late fee |
Late fees and interest are forgiven as long as some payment is made. |
Landlords might be willing to skip the usual penalties, as long as renters keep up with paying an amount that you both agree on. |
Agree to lower rent payments |
A smaller rent payment is accepted, as long as some amount is paid each month. |
Landlords may be willing to accept a smaller payment for a few months, as long as renters pay the agreed-on amount each month. You can also combine this with a rent repayment plan. |
Repayment plan |
Back rent is repaid over a period of time, say, six months to a year. A portion of the amount owed is added to each month’s rent payment. |
Renters may feel more confident about making bigger payments once they get back on their feet. Some renters might also expect money soon, like from a child tax credit or a bonus, that can be used to repay a chunk of the amount owed. |
Start the conversation with these tips
Explain why you want to work things out
Renters, help your landlord understand why this conversation is important to you.
- What would it mean for you and your family to remain housed where you are?
- Is your home close to work and school?
- What do you appreciate about your landlord, your home, or your neighborhood?
- What are you doing now to try to make ends meet? Don’t assume that your landlord knows.