If you are facing the possibility of eviction, it can feel overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. When you’re worried about where you’ll live and how to keep your family safe, it can be difficult to know where to start. But acting quickly can give you more options and can help you access resources before the situation becomes more difficult.
1. Read the Notice Carefully
Take time to read the eviction notice from beginning to end. Pay close attention to the details, such as:
- The reason for the notice
- The amount of any past-due rent that’s owed
- Any potential steps you can take to resolve the problem
- Important deadlines or court dates
2. Know Your Rights
You deserve to understand your rights as a tenant. Doing your own research can certainly be helpful, but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Organizations such as Legal Aid and other nonprofit legal services can explain your rights, answer questions, and help determine whether your landlord has followed the proper legal process for eviction.
3. Understand Your Financial Situation
Before you speak with your landlord, do a realistic assessment of your finances. If the landlord is willing to discuss a repayment plan, then you’ll need to know what you can reasonably afford.
Start by listing your monthly income and most critical expenses (think transportation, basic food, and medications). Use those numbers to create a temporary “crisis budget” that prioritizes your most urgent needs. Consider any costs that can be put on hold, even just for a month or two. The goal is to create space within the budget to either catch up on rent or prepare for a possible move.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a nonprofit financial or credit counselor can help you review your budget and brainstorm options. Consider connecting with SaverPerks partners, Greenpath or MMI.
4. Communicate with Your Landlord
Contact your landlord as soon as possible and briefly explain your situation and hardship.
When you speak with them:
- Express your desire to resolve the situation
- Ask if repayment options are available
- Be honest about what you can realistically afford
- If asked, suggest a payment plan that fits your budget, such as making additional weekly payments or doubling up payments on the 1st and 15th of the month
Landlords are generally more willing to work with tenants who communicate early and proactively.
5. Check out Local Assistance
Community resources may be available to help you stay in your home or reduce financial pressure. Start by calling 2-1-1, which can connect you with local organizations that offer rental assistance, utility assistance, food programs, and other emergency services. There may also be funding through local religious organizations such as Catholic Charities or St. Vincent de Paul.
Even if rental assistance isn’t specifically available, help with other household expenses can free up money to catch up on rent. Funding is often limited, so apply as early as possible. You may also want to consider other temporary sources of funds, such as selling unused household items or asking trusted family members for assistance.
Bottom line
An eviction notice doesn’t always mean eviction is inevitable, but don’t wait until the situation becomes more urgent. Acting quickly, understanding your rights, communicating openly, and seeking available resources can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
