DC Rent Receipts: Tenant Rights to Proof of Payment

Keeping track of your rent payments is essential for every renter in Washington, DC. One of the most important tools you have is a rent receipt—a simple document proving you paid your rent on time. DC law gives you the right to written proof of payment, protecting you in disputes over rent, eviction, or claims about late or missing payments. Here’s what every DC tenant should know about your rights, how to request a rent receipt, and what to do if your landlord refuses.

What Is a Rent Receipt and Why Does It Matter?

A rent receipt is a written acknowledgment from your landlord that you paid your rent. It usually includes:

• The date payment was received
• The amount paid
• The method of payment (cash, check, money order, etc.)
• Your name and address
• The landlord or property manager's signature or stamp

Having rent receipts is especially important if you pay with cash or money orders, as these forms of payment are difficult to trace without written documentation.

Your Legal Right to Rent Receipts in DC

Under DC Code § 42–3505.04, landlords in the District of Columbia must provide a written receipt for each rent payment made by cash or money order, or whenever requested by the tenant for any form of payment.

• Receipts must be provided at no cost.
• They must include the date, amount, method, and the rental address.
• For electronic or check payments, a receipt is required only if you ask for one.

How to Request a Rent Receipt

If you pay by check or electronically, and want a physical receipt, simply ask your landlord in writing or verbally. It’s best to make your request in writing (email or text) for your records. Your landlord must provide the receipt within 15 days.

What if My Landlord Refuses to Provide a Receipt?

If your landlord does not give you a receipt as required by law, you can file a complaint with the Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA) or with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).

DC Official Forms for Rent Payment Issues

• Tenant Petition (Form OTA-TP): Use this form to file an official complaint or dispute involving your landlord, such as refusal to provide receipts. Submit this to the Office of Tenant Advocate. Download the Tenant Petition Form. For example, if your landlord won't give rent receipts after repeated requests, fill out this form and detail the problem.

For step-by-step instructions on filing, see the how-to section below.

Tribunal Handling Rent Issues in DC

The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) is the tribunal that hears cases about landlord-tenant disputes, including rent receipt complaints.

Relevant Tenant Law in DC

For more on DC tenant rights, see the Tenant Receipts Law, DC Code § 42–3505.04, and review additional landlord-tenant resources from the Office of Tenant Advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are landlords in DC required to provide rent receipts?
   Yes, for any cash or money order payments, DC landlords must provide a rent receipt. If you pay by check or electronically, they must provide a receipt upon your request.
2. How soon should I receive a rent receipt after payment?
   By law, landlords must provide the receipt within 15 days of your request for any payment method.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to give me a receipt?
   You can file a complaint using the Tenant Petition form with the DC Office of Tenant Advocate. This helps ensure your rights are protected.
4. Do I need rent receipts if I pay rent electronically?
   While electronic transactions can be traced, requesting a physical receipt can provide added proof and peace of mind. It can also show total rent paid over the lease term.
5. How long should I keep my rent receipts?
   It’s best to keep them at least three years, or longer if you have an active dispute or pending legal case.

Conclusion: Protect Yourself with Written Proof

• DC law guarantees your right to a rent receipt for every payment—especially for cash or money order payments.
• Always request and save your receipts to safeguard against rent disputes or eviction concerns.
• If your landlord does not comply, official resources and complaint forms are available to help protect your rights.

Rent receipts are a simple but powerful way for DC tenants to protect themselves and maintain positive records with their landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA): Information, forms, and support for renters
• Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH): Tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes, including rent receipt complaints
• Tenant Petition (Form OTA-TP): Submit complaints or rights violations
• DC Code § 42–3505.04 - Rent Receipts Law

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1. DC Code § 42–3505.04, Tenant Right to Receipt
2. DC Office of Tenant Advocate – Official resources and forms
3. Office of Administrative Hearings – Tribunal handling residential tenancy disputes in DC

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