What to Do if You Can't Pay Rent

If you’re staring down the first of the month thinking, “I can’t pay my rent,” take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not out of options. 

Yes, falling behind on rent can be scary, but there are tangible steps you can take immediately to safeguard your housing and maintain your peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you can’t pay rent, including tips on how to talk to your landlord, where to find help, and what resources are available to get you through. 

Communicate with your landlord right away

Before taking any action or the situation worsens, contact your landlord. In this instance, sooner is definitely better. Being open and proactive about your situation builds trust and can often lead to temporary solutions. 

Instead of waiting for a notice, explain your situation honestly and thoroughly, along with a proposed plan or timeline for catching up on rent payments (if possible). You can also ask about payment plans or deferrals. A strong landlord-tenant relationship can go a long way when you need support paying rent.

Revisit your lease agreement

In stressful situations, it’s easy to forget what your lease actually says. Take a moment to review your lease agreement. Some agreements offer grace periods before rent is considered late, outline late fees, and may even include clauses for hardship. 

Understanding the terms you’ve already agreed to both gives you a clearer picture of what to expect and how much time you have to make things right. 

Explore rental assistance options near you

If paying rent this month feels completely out of reach, and you know you won’t be able to catch up before any grace periods end, you’re not out of hope. Across the country, there are organizations and support programs specifically designed to help renters facing tough times.

Start by checking in with your state and local housing authorities, which were created to provide fast, meaningful support for people in exactly your situation. National and local nonprofits like United Way, Catholic Charities, and the Salvation Army also offer emergency rental relief, hardship grants, and other forms of assistance that can give you some breathing room.

It can also help to speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor. These professionals are trained to walk you through your options, help you build a sustainable budget, and connect you with resources you might not even know exist. 

Ask about a payment plan

When rent is due and you don’t have the full amount, offering a partial payment with a clear timeline on when you can pay can go a long way. Many landlords are open to payment plans that let you break up what you owe into smaller chunks. It’s a sign of good faith and a lifeline that can buy you the breathing room you need to recover financially.

Prioritize rent in your budget

When money is tight, it’s time to triage. Take a hard look at your expenses and identify anything that can wait, such as dining out, vacations, new clothes, streaming subscriptions, nail or hair appointments, or non-urgent purchases. 

By temporarily redirecting those funds to rent, you protect your housing and reduce long-term stress. It may not be easy, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. 

To gain a better understanding of how much you can afford to pay for rent each month, try our Rent Affordability Calculator. 

Find temporary sources of income

Sometimes the best solution is just bringing in a little more cash. Try freelancing in your current field, taking on weekend shifts, or signing up for gig work such as delivery services, rideshare apps, or babysitting. You can also try selling unused household items or clothing to get quick cash on hand. 

Remember, even a few hundred dollars can make all the difference when rent is due. Don’t underestimate the power of small wins. 

Understand your rights as a renter

When you're stressed and not sure of what’s next, knowing your rights can offer a sense of stability. Every state has its own set of rental laws, but many include important protections, like grace periods or limits on late fees. In a few states, mediation is required before eviction proceedings can begin.

Understanding what you’re legally entitled to can help you stay calm, make informed decisions, and avoid unnecessary panic. It’s worth taking a few minutes to explore your renter’s rights and what to expect during the eviction process.

Take a deep breath and stay proactive

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but remember, falling behind on rent doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Life happens. What matters now is how you respond.

Start with one step: a conversation, a phone call, or a quick online search for resources. Bit by bit, you’ll start to regain control. Staying calm, informed, and action-oriented is the best way to protect your housing and your peace of mind.