Rent Receipts: Your Right to Written Proof in New York

Keeping accurate records of your rent payments is essential for every renter in New York. Whether you pay by cash, check, or another method, having written proof of payment safeguards your rights if disputes arise about rent, repairs, or your tenancy. In New York, laws are in place to ensure tenants can always obtain a rent receipt—and knowing how these rules work can help protect your home and finances.

Understanding Rent Receipts in New York

A rent receipt is a written or electronic document confirming that your landlord received your rent payment. It should include:

• The date of payment
• The amount paid
• The rental period covered
• The name and signature (or electronic confirmation) of the landlord or agent accepting payment
• Your name and apartment address

Rent receipts can be vital if there’s ever a disagreement about unpaid rent, late fees, or even during the eviction process.

Your Legal Right to a Rent Receipt

According to New York State Real Property Law § 235-e, your landlord must provide you a receipt if you pay rent by cash, money order, cashier’s check, or in any form other than personal check. Even when paying by personal check, you can request a receipt, and the landlord must provide it within 15 days of your request.^[1]

If the landlord fails to provide a rent receipt as required, it can impact their ability to pursue some types of legal action or fees, and may be used in your defense in disputes over rent payments.

What Must Be Included in a Rent Receipt?

• Date the rent was received
• Name and address of the tenancy
• Amount paid and rental period it covers
• Signature and title of the person receiving payment

For more details, see the official New York State Homes and Community Renewal: Fact Sheet #10.

When and How You Should Get Your Rent Receipt

• Paying by cash, money order, or cashier's check: The landlord is required by law to provide an immediate written receipt.
• Paying by personal check: You are entitled to a receipt if you request one, and your landlord must provide it within 15 days.
• Paying online or by app: Make sure to save or print electronic confirmations as this may serve as proof, but you can still request a formal receipt.

Tip: Always ask for your rent receipt, and keep copies (physical or digital) organized by month. This record can be essential for proving payment if there’s ever a dispute or eviction notice.

Official Forms: Requesting Rent Receipts

• There is no standardized statewide form specifically for requesting rent receipts in New York, but you can provide a written request to your landlord referencing New York Real Property Law § 235-e. Keep a copy for your records.
• Sample text: "I am requesting a written rent receipt for my rental payment made on [date], as per New York Real Property Law § 235-e."
• For legal complaints involving rent receipts or payment proof, you may use Order to Show Cause Forms (NYC Housing Court) if facing court action or dispute, although these are generally for broader disputes. You may need to reference your missing rent receipt as part of your supporting documentation.

The New York City Housing Court and local courts handle tenancy disputes, including those involving rent receipts. Statewide, New York Civil Courts are the main resource for landlord-tenant proceedings.

If Your Landlord Refuses to Provide a Rent Receipt

If your landlord doesn’t give you a receipt as required, take the following steps:

• Submit a written request citing Real Property Law § 235-e.
• Keep a copy of your request; deliver it by certified mail or with proof of delivery.
• If refused, gather any other proof of payment (bank statements, electronic receipts, money order stubs).
• If the issue persists, you may contact your local housing authority or file a complaint in Housing Court as supporting evidence in any dispute.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

The primary law for rent receipts in New York is New York State Real Property Law § 235-e. For more on tenant rights, see the NYS Homes and Community Renewal Tenant Rights Guide.

FAQ: Rent Receipts in New York

1. Am I always entitled to a rent receipt in New York?
   Yes, if you pay rent by cash, money order, cashier's check, or any method other than personal check, your landlord must give you a receipt automatically. If you pay by personal check, you must request one, and it should be provided within 15 days.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide a rent receipt?
   Make a written request quoting New York State Real Property Law § 235-e, and keep a copy. If still refused, document your payment by other means and consider seeking help from legal aid or the courts.
3. Can an electronic payment confirmation serve as a rent receipt?
   Digital confirmations may serve as proof, but you still have the right to an official rent receipt from your landlord upon request.
4. How can rent receipts help protect me in an eviction case?
   Receipts provide solid proof you paid rent. In a court dispute, they can be critical evidence to prevent wrongful eviction or claims of unpaid rent.
5. Which tribunal handles rent and tenant disputes in New York?
   Tenant-landlord issues, including rent receipts, are handled through the New York Housing Courts and City Civil Courts.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You are entitled to a written rent receipt in most situations—always request one for your records.
• If you pay by personal check, request your receipt in writing if needed.
• Keep copies of all receipts to avoid disputes about payment and rental history.

Safeguarding proof of rent payments can make a major difference if conflict or confusion arises with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York City Housing Court – For filing complaints or resolving disputes.
• NYS Homes and Community Renewal Tenant Rights – Comprehensive guide on tenant protections and rent issues.
• NY Attorney General: Tenants’ Rights – Official support, complaints, and guidance.
• For rental issues outside NYC, contact your local housing agency.
• Legal aid is available through Legal Aid Society of Northeastern NY and similar tenant support organizations statewide.

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1. New York State Real Property Law § 235-e: Read the text here
2. NYS Homes and Community Renewal Fact Sheet #10: Fact Sheet: Information on Rent Receipts
3. NYC Housing Court: Official resource for tenant-landlord issues

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