Finding the right help when it’s time to pay the rent is essential!
Life is all about those first milestones: first job, first car (no more hand-me-down from the parents!), and finally, a first apartment! For all of life’s exciting milestones, it’s important to remember that setbacks are also a natural part of the journey.
Whether it’s a lost job, a costly car repair, an expensive healthcare bill, or simply the unexpected – whatever it may be – it can be especially scary and stressful facing a financial crisis that prevents you from being able to pay your rent.
Speak Up
Begin by speaking with your landlord about money issues that may effect your ability to fully pay the rent. The sooner they know the situation, the better, and the more likely they are to help work out a mutually viable solution . Explain the situation and offer options for repayment, such as paying late but within the month, or paying half for an agreed-upon period of time, with a date by which they can expect full payment. Even if they say no, being proactive, professional, and polite goes a long way.
If financial hardships put you at risk of missing your next rent payment, start by talking over the situation with your landlord.
Simple solutions like these are more likely to be reached when renting from an individual versus a management company. It also makes sense to be on good terms with the landlord from day one. An existing friendly and congenial relationship always helps, and the longer the tenancy, the more likely a mutually agreeable solution can be found. An empty apartment generates no income, so the landlord is very likely to want a solution that keeps the unit occupied with solid plans for repayment.
If a setback starts to look more long-term than short-term, there are options, including rental assistance programs run by Jackson County, the city of Kansas City, nonprofit organizations, and the state of Missouri. Practical solutions are available with no judgment, no pressure, and no shame.
Finding Help
Start with Jackson County and Kansas City-specific programs first, as these will generally provide the quickest response. Those include Catholic Charities of KC, Della Lamb Community Services, Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City, and more. You can also call 211. It is a free, confidential helpline from the United Way that connects people with health and human service resources, including housing and rental assistance.
Even if an eviction notice has been slipped under the door, it’s still not too late. There are organizations offering free legal advice and interventions to negotiate solutions. Contact the City of Kansas City for a complete understanding of renters’ rights and resources.
Crisis Over – Now What?
Get started on building a strong financial future with Kansas City Credit Union!
Once the financial setback has been resolved, keep in mind that late rent payments may affect your credit score. Depending on the landlord’s preference, they may report the late payment, which can cause a dip in your credit score – especially if the debt went to collections.
Moving forward, the best course of action is to take steps now to avoid this situation from repeating itself. Start feeding the emergency fund again, or if not having an emergency fund played a role in the financial setback initially, start building one now! Kansas City Credit Union focuses on building financial security by putting our members first and finding the right financial solutions for them. Whether new to budgeting or facing housing insecurity, the KCCU team is here to assist customers, walk them through their options, and help them explore local resources.
Move Forward With Confidence
Struggling to pay rent can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether renting that first place or starting over after a life change, what matters most is knowing that help is within reach. From local assistance programs to supportive partners like Kansas City Credit Union, there are people and organizations ready to see renters through this challenge and find solutions to avoid housing insecurity in the future.
