What happens if my landlord accepts a partial rent payment?

Accepting a partial rent payment does not automatically stop or cancel eviction proceedings in Kansas. Unless you have a written agreement stating otherwise, your landlord can still seek eviction for the remaining balance.

Can a landlord refuse to accept my partial rent payment in Kansas?

Yes, landlords in Kansas are not required by law to accept partial rent payments unless it's specified in your lease or there's a written agreement.

How do I respond if I receive a 3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit?

You should pay the full rent owed within 3 days if possible. If you can't, try to reach a written repayment agreement and keep all records. If you receive court papers, attend the hearing and present your evidence.

Can a landlord evict me without going to court in Kansas?

No. Kansas law requires that all evictions for nonpayment of rent go through the district court process. Landlords cannot forcibly remove tenants or change locks without a judge's order.

What legal protections do I have if I can only pay part of my rent?

You have the right to proper notice and a court hearing. Partial payment does not guarantee protection from eviction unless specified in a written agreement with your landlord.

Partial Rent Payments and Eviction in Kansas: What Renters Need to Know

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Kansas published: June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Kansas and facing financial difficulties, you may worry about what happens if you can't pay your full rent on time. Can your landlord accept a partial payment and still evict you? This article explains how partial rent payments impact eviction risk in Kansas, outlines what the law says, and offers clear steps and resources to help protect your rights as a renter.

How Partial Rent Payments Affect Tenancy in Kansas

Kansas law requires tenants to pay rent in full and on time according to the lease agreement. However, sometimes tenants can only offer a partial payment due to financial hardship. It's important to understand what happens if you make a partial rent payment:

Landlords are not required to accept partial rent payments. They may refuse them, especially if payment is late.
If a landlord accepts a partial payment, it does not automatically stop or cancel eviction proceedings for nonpayment of the full amount.
Landlords must follow Kansas eviction processes, which require proper written notice and a court hearing before an eviction can take place.

If you can only pay part of your rent, always get a receipt and written agreement with your landlord stating whether acceptance of the payment delays or prevents eviction.

Official Forms and Notices Used in Kansas Eviction

Here are the main official documents used when a landlord seeks to evict for nonpayment of rent:

3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
- Form Name: Kansas 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
- How It’s Used: Landlords must serve this notice if rent isn’t paid on time. It gives renters 3 days to pay the full amount owed or move out. For example, if your rent is due April 1 and you haven’t paid by April 2, your landlord can serve you this notice on April 3.
- Official 3-Day Notice Form (Kansas Judicial Branch)
Petition for Forcible Detainer (Eviction Petition)
- Form Number: DC 101
- How It’s Used: If you do not pay full rent (even if a partial payment was made) after the 3-Day Notice expires, the landlord can file this court petition to begin the formal eviction process. A court hearing will then be scheduled.
- Eviction Petition DC 101 (Kansas Judicial Branch)

Eviction Risk After Partial Rent Payment

Making a partial payment in Kansas does not guarantee protection from eviction. A landlord can still move forward with an eviction unless there is a signed agreement stating otherwise.

A landlord may accept partial payment then still proceed with a 3-Day Notice and court case for the remaining rent due.
Document everything: Always get a written record of every payment you make and communicate clearly with your landlord about your intentions and their responses.
If your landlord accepts a partial payment and agrees (in writing) not to evict, this protects you best.

Important Kansas Eviction Law

Kansas rental laws are governed by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Section 58-2564 requires proper written notice and court process for eviction. Landlords must not use "self-help" methods or lockouts—they can only remove a tenant after winning a court order.

Tip: If you’re struggling to pay rent, contact your landlord as soon as possible. Try to reach a written agreement about repayment or temporary changes. Many landlords will work with tenants but are not legally required to accept less than the full amount owed unless agreed upon.

What the Kansas Tenancy Tribunal or Court Does

Eviction cases are handled by the Kansas District Court in your county. Only a judge can order eviction after reviewing the facts and hearing from both parties.

If served with court papers, you have the right to attend the hearing, present your evidence (such as proof of payment, written agreements about partial rent, or hardship), and explain your circumstances.
Find your local court using the official court directory.

Eviction is a legal process—not immediate. The court must review all evidence before any renter is forced to move.

Action Steps: What If You Can’t Pay Full Rent?

Here's what you should do if you can only pay a portion of your rent in Kansas:

Contact your landlord immediately and explain your situation.
Offer to pay as much as you can and ask for a written agreement regarding repayment or late payment terms.
Always request and keep receipts for any partial payments.
If you’re served with a 3-Day Notice, respond within the time limit and pay what you owe if possible.
If you receive court papers, attend the hearing and bring proof of payments, notices, and any agreements or communications.

Being proactive, keeping records, and understanding your legal options can help protect your tenancy.

FAQs: Kansas Partial Rent Payment and Eviction

What happens if my landlord accepts a partial rent payment?
Accepting a partial payment does not automatically stop an eviction case. The landlord can still serve a 3-Day Notice and proceed to court unless you have a written agreement stating otherwise.
Will I be evicted for making a partial payment?
If the remaining rent isn’t paid within the required time frame, the landlord can still seek eviction. Only a court can order an eviction after a hearing.
Can a landlord refuse my partial rent payment?
Yes, Kansas landlords are not required to accept partial payments unless your lease specifically allows it or you have a written agreement.
How do I respond to a 3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit?
Pay the full amount owed within 3 days if possible. If that’s not possible, contact your landlord to ask for an extension or payment plan in writing. If served court papers, attend the hearing and present evidence.
Can my landlord evict me without going to court?
No. Kansas law requires a court process for eviction. Your landlord cannot force you to move or change locks without a court order.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

Partial rent payment is not a guaranteed protection from eviction in Kansas unless you have a written agreement with your landlord.
Landlords must give proper written notice and follow court processes through the Kansas Civil Court system.
Keep records of all payments and communications and seek written agreements whenever possible.

Understanding your rights and acting quickly can make a big difference if you face financial hardship.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kansas District Court Directory – Find your county court for eviction hearings
Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Programs for rental assistance and tenant resources
Kansas Bar Association Legal Help – Legal resources and referral service
Kansas Attorney General’s Landlord/Tenant Rights – Official statewide guidance for tenants