Rent Receipts and Your Rights in Oregon

As an Oregon renter, it's important to keep secure records of your rent payments. Written receipts provide vital protection if there’s ever a dispute about the payment or your tenancy status. This guide explains your legal rights to rent receipts in Oregon, the process for requesting them, and links to reliable government resources for more support.

Understanding Rent Receipts in Oregon

Rent receipts are official, written confirmations from your landlord that show when, how much, and by what method you paid rent. They are an essential part of your rental documentation.

Are Landlords Required to Provide Rent Receipts?

In Oregon, the law requires landlords to provide a written receipt upon request when a tenant pays rent in cash, or by a money order. This requirement is found in the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically ORS 90.140.

• If you pay rent in cash or by money order and request a rent receipt, your landlord must provide one.
• For payments made by check or electronic transfer, a rent receipt is not automatically required—but you can still request written confirmation.
• The receipt must include the date, amount, and purpose of the payment (such as monthly rent or security deposit).

Why Rent Receipts Matter for Oregon Renters

Receipts are more than a formality—they’re your proof that you followed your lease terms. If there's ever a disagreement about rent payment or amount owed, your receipts serve as crucial evidence.

• Protection from eviction for nonpayment by showing you paid on time
• Helps if a landlord’s records are incorrect
• Essential for getting your full security deposit back

How to Request a Rent Receipt in Oregon

As a renter, you have a right to written proof of your payment. To ensure you get a rent receipt—especially when paying cash or money order—be sure to request it in writing.

• You may use the official Request for Rent Receipt form or write your own clear, dated request.

Example: Submitting a Rent Receipt Request

Sara pays her rent in cash each month. One day, her landlord doesn’t immediately offer a receipt. Sara writes a short note: “I am requesting a written rent receipt for my rent payment made on June 1, 2024.” She hands this to her landlord along with her rent, and keeps a copy for her records.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Request for Rent Receipt (No Standard Form Number)
  When and how to use: Use this request whenever you pay rent by cash or money order. It can be a simple written statement or letter to your landlord, clearly requesting a rent receipt for a particular payment. Oregon does not provide a standardized government form, but see the guidance at the Oregon Housing and Community Services Tenants Page for templates and best practices.

Be sure to include key information: your name, unit number, date of payment, amount, purpose (rent), and request for written receipt.

What If a Landlord Refuses to Provide a Receipt?

If your landlord refuses to provide a rent receipt upon your written request, this could be a violation of Oregon law. The Oregon Courts – Landlord-Tenant Section provides guidance for resolving disputes. In some circumstances, you may be able to file a complaint or bring the issue in small claims or landlord/tenant court.

• Keep copies of any written requests you made
• Maintain proof of how and when you paid rent
• Contact tenant support resources or seek legal assistance if problems persist

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Oregon?

Rental disputes, including issues about rent receipts, can be handled by your local county courthouse or through the Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord/Tenant Resources. These courts interpret state tenancy law and can offer guidance on filing complaints or defending your rights.

1. Do I have to pay rent in cash to get a receipt?
   No, but Oregon law specifically requires landlords to provide a rent receipt when you request it for payments made by cash or money order. For other forms of payment (check, electronic), a written receipt isn’t mandatory, but it’s still wise to request one for your records.
2. What should a rent receipt include?
   It should state your name, the amount received, date of payment, the purpose (rent for which month), and the payment method.
3. How do I ask for a rent receipt if my landlord doesn’t offer one?
   Write a simple, dated note requesting a rent receipt for your specific payment and keep a copy.
4. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to give a receipt?
   No, you are still required to pay rent. Instead, document your payment and requests, and seek help from official Oregon tenant support if your landlord does not comply.
5. Where can I file a formal complaint about a landlord?
   Rental disputes, such as failure to provide rent receipts, are addressed through your local small claims or landlord/tenant court. The Oregon Judicial Department offers contact information and guidance for renters.

Summary: Protect Yourself with Rent Receipts

• Always request a rent receipt when paying cash or money order
• Written proof protects you during disputes or when ending your lease
• Contact Oregon tenant resources if you need legal help or your rights are denied

Documenting your payments now can save you from bigger problems later.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenants Resource Page: Information on leases, receipts, and housing support.
• Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord/Tenant Information: Guidance on small claims and legal rights disputes.
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90): Full, updated rental legislation.
• Local tenant advocacy groups (search: "Oregon tenant support") may also provide counseling and assistance.

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Oregon Housing and Community Services Official Tenant Page
3. Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord/Tenant Information

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