Help & Support

What is a Pay or Quit Notice?

A Pay or Quit Notice (also called a Notice to Pay Rent or Quit) is a formal legal document sent by a landlord to a tenant when rent is overdue. This notice informs the tenant that they must either:

• Pay the full amount owed (rent, late fees, and other charges) within the specified time period, OR
• Quit (vacate) the property by the deadline

If the tenant does neither, the landlord may proceed with eviction proceedings in court.

For Tenants: What to Do If You Receive a Notice

If you've received a Pay or Quit Notice, here's what you need to know:

Your Options:

1. Pay the Full Amount: If you can pay the total amount owed (rent + late fees + other charges) before the deadline, your tenancy will continue and no eviction will proceed. Make sure to get a receipt and keep records of your payment.
2. Contact Your Landlord: If you cannot pay the full amount, contact your landlord immediately to discuss payment plans or other arrangements. Some landlords may be willing to work with you.
3. Seek Legal Assistance: If you believe the notice is incorrect, if you have defenses to the eviction, or if you need help understanding your rights, contact a tenant rights organization or attorney in your area. Many areas offer free or low-cost legal aid for tenants.
4. Vacate the Property: If you cannot pay and do not have legal defenses, you may choose to vacate before the deadline to avoid an eviction on your record.

Notice Deadlines by State

The deadline to respond to a Pay or Quit Notice varies by state. Common timeframes include:

• 3 days: Most common timeframe (CA, TX, FL, NY, and many others)
• 5 days: Some states require 5 days (MO, OK, VA, and others)
• 7 days: Required in some states (AL, KY, MI, NV, and others)
• 10-14 days: Longer periods in states like IN, NC, OR, PA, TN, VT, and others
• 30 days: District of Columbia requires 30 days

Note: The deadline may be counted as calendar days or business days depending on your state. The notice you receive will specify the exact deadline. Always check your local laws, as requirements can vary.

What Happens After the Deadline?

If you do not pay the full amount or vacate by the deadline:

• The landlord may file an eviction lawsuit (also called an unlawful detainer) in court
• You will receive a court summons and complaint
• You will have an opportunity to respond to the court and present any defenses
• If the landlord wins, the court may order you to vacate and may award money damages
• An eviction judgment can appear on your credit report and rental history

Important: Even after the notice deadline passes, you still have rights. You cannot be removed from the property without a court order. Only a sheriff or court officer can physically remove you after a court judgment.

Tenant Rights & Resources

As a tenant, you have legal rights. If you receive a notice, consider:

• Legal Aid Organizations: Many cities and states have free legal aid services for tenants
• Tenant Rights Hotlines: Check with your local housing authority or tenant union
• Housing Counseling: HUD-approved housing counselors can provide guidance
• State & Local Laws: Your state and city may have additional tenant protections
• Document Everything: Keep copies of all notices, receipts, and communications

Remember: This service provides notice delivery for landlords. We are not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice. If you have questions about your rights or need help responding to a notice, please consult with a qualified attorney or tenant rights organization.

How long does it take to send a notice?

Once your payment is processed, notices are typically sent within 1-2 business days via certified mail.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards and debit cards through our secure payment processor.

Can I view my notice after it's sent?

Yes! You can view and download a PDF copy of your notice from the status page after it's been processed.

Is my information secure?

Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and security measures to protect your data. See our Privacy Policy for more details.