Help with rent when you're behind

Falling behind on rent is frightening because the timeline feels fast. In most states the legal process takes longer than people fear — which means there is time to act, starting with these steps.

1. Talk to your landlord before they file anything

Landlords overwhelmingly prefer a partial payment and a plan over an eviction filing, which costs them money and a vacant unit. Put any agreement in writing: how much you'll pay, on which dates, and that the balance plan pauses late fees if possible. A written plan also strengthens assistance applications.

2. Find rental assistance through 211

Dial 211 (free, nationwide) and ask for emergency rental assistance in your county. Depending on where you live, that can include county or city rental assistance programs, Community Action Agencies, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, and church benevolence funds. Many programs pay the landlord directly and can cover arrears — bring your lease, the amount owed, and any notice you've received.

3. Know your notice period

Before a landlord can evict, they must give written notice and go through court in every state — a landlord cannot legally change locks or shut off utilities to force you out. If you've received court papers, look for free legal aid in your area (lawhelp.org lists local offices); many courts also run eviction diversion programs that pair tenants with assistance funds.

4. Post your rent bill on DueDone

DueDone lets you post a verified rent bill: upload the lease page or landlord statement showing what's owed, we verify it by hand, and donors pay your landlord directly — never you, and never through us. The public listing can be semi-anonymous or fully anonymous, and confirmed payments stamp the bill PAID ✓ in public.

DueDone is not a charity and gifts are not tax-deductible. One active bill per household; see how it works and the FAQ.