Connecticut Renters’ Rights to Rent Receipts and Written Proof

As a Connecticut renter, it’s important to know your rights around getting a rent receipt—a vital written proof that you paid your landlord. Whether you pay by cash, check, or another method, Connecticut law protects your right to written documentation of rent payments. This article will walk you through the key legal details, practical steps, and official resources you need to secure rent receipts and maintain your records confidently.

Can Connecticut Renters Request Rent Receipts?

Yes, Connecticut law requires landlords to provide a written receipt whenever a tenant pays rent in cash or by money order. Even if you pay by check or electronic transfer, requesting a written receipt is a good practice for your records.

• Landlords must provide a receipt for cash or money order payments—no exceptions.
• You should receive the receipt at the time of payment or within a reasonable period if you pay by mail.
• Although not legally obligated, many landlords may give receipts for payments made by check or electronically if you ask.

What Information Must a Rent Receipt Include?

According to Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-3a, a rent receipt must contain:

• Date of payment
• Amount paid
• Address of the rental property
• Name of the tenant (optional but recommended)
• Period covered by the payment (e.g., May 2024 rent)
• Landlord’s or agent’s signature or stamp

Keeping copies of your receipts protects you if there’s ever a dispute over unpaid rent or late fees.

Why Are Rent Receipts Important for Connecticut Tenants?

A rent receipt is your proof of payment. Here’s why it matters:

• Prevents false claims of non-payment or late payment
• Documents your payment history if facing eviction or rent increases
• Helps with rental assistance applications or other legal needs

What If Your Landlord Refuses to Give a Rent Receipt?

If your landlord will not provide a required receipt, take these steps:

• Keep your own records (photos, bank statements, copies of money orders)
• Ask for the receipt in writing (email or certified letter works well)
• If still denied, you can contact the Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session, which oversees housing matters, or file a complaint with the local Fair Rent Commission if your town or city has one

Key Connecticut Forms Related to Rent Receipts

While there is no single statewide “Rent Receipt Form,” here are related official resources:

• Connecticut Judicial Branch – Housing Session Rental Forms: This resource includes forms related to payments, notices, and landlord-tenant matters. For example, you may want to use the Motion for Order (Form JD-CV-001) to bring concerns about landlord compliance to court. If you’re having ongoing issues, this form allows you to request the court’s intervention—for example, requiring your landlord to provide documentation.
  • When to use: If your landlord repeatedly refuses to provide rent receipts you are entitled to, and you need the court to enforce your rights or prevent retaliation.
  • How it’s used: Fill out the form, describe your issue, attach any supporting papers (correspondence, payment proof), and file with the Housing Session office at your local Superior Court. See Connecticut Housing Session FAQ for filing instructions.
• Sample Written Request for Rent Receipt: While not an official government form, you can write a letter or email stating: “I am requesting a written receipt for my rental payment of $____ made on [date] for [address].” Keep a copy for your records.

What Housing Authority or Tribunal Handles Rent Receipt Issues?

The Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session is responsible for handling landlord-tenant disputes and rent-related issues, including those involving rent receipts. The Housing Session is a division of the Superior Court dedicated to housing matters.

What Does Connecticut Law Say?

The main law covering rent receipt rights is the Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 831 – Landlord and Tenant. Section 47a-3a specifically covers requirements for providing written receipts for rent paid in cash or by money order.

Your right to a rent receipt cannot be waived—even if your lease says otherwise.

What to Do If You Need to Prove a Rent Payment

If you're in a dispute with your landlord or facing a claim of unpaid rent, collect and organize the following:

• All rent receipts (photocopies or photos are valid)
• Bank statements or transaction confirmations
• Correspondence with your landlord about rental payments

Bringing this documentation to a hearing will strengthen your position.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are landlords in Connecticut required to give rent receipts for all payment methods?
   Landlords must provide written receipts for rent paid in cash or by money order. For payments by check or electronic transfer, receipts are not required by law, but tenants can and should request them for their records.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide a rent receipt?
   Document your request in writing and collect other proof of payment. If issues persist, contact the Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session or seek assistance from a local Fair Rent Commission.
3. Is an email confirmation enough as a rent receipt?
   An email from your landlord confirming the payment serves as written proof. Save these messages in case of future disputes.
4. Can my landlord charge a fee for giving me a rent receipt?
   No. Connecticut law does not allow landlords to charge tenants a fee for providing written rent receipts.
5. What happens if I lose my rent receipt?
   Ask your landlord for a duplicate copy. If unavailable, use your own records (bank statements, photos, or messages) to establish payment.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• You have the legal right to a written receipt for cash or money order rent payments.
• Always keep documentation of every rent payment.
• If you don't get a required receipt, document your request and seek help from Connecticut's housing authorities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session – Find your local office and access forms.
• Connecticut Department of Housing – Tenant resources and assistance programs.
• Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 831 – Landlord and Tenant

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1. Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 831
2. Section 47a-3a – Receipts for rent
3. Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session

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