Is my landlord required to provide a rent receipt in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, landlords are not required to give a rent receipt unless you request one. You can and should ask for written confirmation of payment.

What if my landlord refuses to give me a rent receipt?

Ask in writing and keep your request as proof. Save other payment evidence like bank statements. If there's a dispute, contact your local General Sessions Court.

Do online or check payments count as rent receipts?

Yes, check copies, bank records, and payment confirmation emails serve as valid proof if there is later a dispute over rent payment.

Can I use a handwritten note as a rent receipt?

Yes, any written and signed record from your landlord or their agent—paper or digital—counts as a receipt.

Where do I get help with rent payment disputes?

You can contact Tennessee's General Sessions Court or local Legal Aid for free guidance and dispute resolution.

Tennessee Rent Receipts: Written Proof for Renters

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

When you pay rent as a tenant in Tennessee, having a record of each payment is essential. Written proof helps protect you in rental disputes and clarifies financial expectations. If you're wondering whether your landlord must provide a rent receipt in Tennessee, or what to do if you need one, this guide explains your rights and practical steps—making sure you're prepared for any rental situation.

Your Rights to Rent Receipts in Tennessee

While many states have strict laws about rent receipts, Tennessee's rules may differ from what you expect. Under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords of certain residential properties are not specifically required to issue receipts for every rent payment unless requested by the tenant. However, providing a written receipt is considered good practice and can help avoid disputes.

Which Rentals Are Covered?

This law primarily applies to counties in Tennessee with a population of over 75,000 (per the Act's jurisdiction list). Outside these areas, rules are less strict but tenants still benefit from requesting receipts.

If you pay rent in cash or money order, always ask for a written receipt—it serves as critical proof of payment.
Payments by check or electronic transfer automatically provide a paper trail, but receipts are still helpful if proof is later needed.

Why Rent Receipts Matter

Written receipts confirm that you have paid rent, which can protect you in situations like:

Disputes about missing or late rent payments
Potential eviction proceedings
Proof needed for rental assistance, tax credits, or reimbursement programs

If you ever pay in cash or without an automatic payment record, always obtain a signed and dated receipt from your landlord. This is your best defense against misunderstandings or false claims.

How to Request a Rent Receipt in Tennessee

It's your right to ask for written confirmation of your rent payment. While there is no official statewide form in Tennessee specifically for rent receipts, you can make your request in person, by email, or by letter. Keep a copy for your records.

Sample Rent Receipt Request

Politely ask the landlord or manager at the time of payment: “Could you please give me a written receipt for my rent payment?”
Use a short written request if needed: “I am requesting a written receipt for my rent payment on [date]. Thank you.”

What Should a Rent Receipt Include?

For your receipt to serve as legitimate proof, make sure it contains:

Landlord or property manager’s name and signature
Date the rent was paid
Amount paid
Property address or unit number
Payment method (cash, check, money order, etc.)

Relevant Forms and Where to Find Them

Unlike some states, Tennessee does not provide an official government-issued rent receipt form. However, you can create your own written request or use a template for documentation. For tenants facing broader rental issues (such as disputes about payment that may lead to court), you may eventually need to consult resources or forms from the following:

Complaint/Dispute Forms: If your landlord refuses to provide any written confirmation and this becomes an issue (e.g., in an eviction or small claims case), standard forms and instructions can be found at Tennessee Courts Self Help Center.
Example: A renter who receives a notice to vacate for alleged non-payment may need to show proof of payment in court. If you are responding to an eviction notice and don’t have receipts, submit bank records, electronic payment proofs, or a copy of your written receipt request with your response document.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Tennessee?

For problems involving rent receipts or rental payments, the relevant authority is your local county court—specifically, General Sessions Court. You can learn more at the Tennessee General Sessions Courts page.

Summary of Tennessee Rental Laws

The Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs most landlord-tenant relationships in eligible counties. Review the Tennessee Attorney General's Tenant and Landlord Consumer Protection resources for guidance on your rights and obligations.

FAQ: Rent Receipts in Tennessee

Is my landlord required by law to give me a rent receipt in Tennessee?
Currently, Tennessee law does not require landlords to issue a rent receipt unless you ask for one. It’s best practice to request and keep a written record of all payments.
What should I do if my landlord refuses to give a rent receipt?
Submit your request in writing and keep a copy. If issues persist, retain other proof (bank statement, screenshot of electronic payment) and contact local legal aid or the General Sessions Court if a dispute arises.
Does paying by check or electronic transfer count as proof of rent payment?
Yes, these payment methods create their own paper trails. However, a signed receipt provides extra security, especially if payment is disputed later.
Where can I go for help if I am facing eviction due to alleged non-payment but have made my payments?
Gather all available documentation (receipts, bank statements, rent receipt requests) and contact your county's General Sessions Court or a local legal aid office for support.
Can I use a handwritten note or email as a rent receipt?
Yes. Any written and signed record from your landlord or their agent is acceptable. Email confirmation also provides a digital proof of payment.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Tennessee landlords are not automatically required to provide rent receipts, but tenants can and should request them for any cash or non-traceable payments.
Written proof—whether a signed receipt, email, or bank record—is vital in resolving disputes and protecting your rights.
If disputes escalate, official help is available through General Sessions Courts and state legal resources.

Keeping organized records gives you confidence and security throughout your renting experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Tennessee General Sessions Courts – For local disputes and filing complaints
Tennessee Courts Self Help Center – Guides, forms, and information for renters
Tennessee Attorney General: Tenants and Landlords
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands – Free legal help for qualifying tenants