Partial Rent Payments and Eviction Risk in Washington

If you’re a renter in Washington State, missing rent or making a partial payment can be stressful. It's important to understand how partial rent payments affect your legal rights and your risk of eviction. Washington law sets out clear rules for landlords and renters, but the process can be confusing when you’re trying to keep your housing stable.

What Happens If You Make a Partial Rent Payment?

In Washington, rent is legally due on the date agreed to in your lease. If you can't pay the full amount, you might consider making a partial payment. However, accepting a partial payment does not automatically stop eviction proceedings unless your landlord agrees in writing.

• Landlords can issue a 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate if any rent is unpaid.
• If a landlord accepts a partial payment, they can still proceed with eviction unless both parties sign a formal repayment plan.
• It’s important to get any agreement about partial payments or payment arrangements in writing.

Find the official 14-Day Notice template and information on repayment plans at the Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources.

Your Rights Under Washington Law

The main law protecting renters and outlining eviction is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).¹ This law describes your right to receive written notice and outlines rules about eviction related to rent payments.

• Landlords must use official notices for rent-related eviction.
• Partial rent payments might need a written repayment agreement to fully protect you.
• If you enter a repayment plan, make sure you understand and can meet the terms.

Eviction Process for Unpaid or Partially Paid Rent

Here’s what typically happens if you owe some or all of your rent:

• You may receive a 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (Form: 14-Day Pay or Vacate Notice).
• This gives you 14 calendar days to pay what’s owed or move out.
• If you pay the full rent and any required late fees within the notice period, the landlord must stop the eviction process.
• If you make a partial payment only, the landlord can still pursue eviction unless you both sign a formal repayment agreement.
• If you do not resolve the amount owed, the landlord can file an eviction case with the court (called an "Unlawful Detainer" action).

The official tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes in Washington is the local Superior or District Court, depending on your county.²

Official Forms and When They're Used

• 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate
  Form Name: 14-Day Pay or Vacate Notice
  When & How: Landlords must use this to legally begin the eviction process if you owe rent. You’ll have 14 days to pay in full or leave. For example, if you fall behind on rent, your landlord serves this notice — paying what you owe within 14 days can stop eviction.
  Washington State Attorney General’s Notice Forms
• Eviction Summons and Complaint
  Form Name/Number: Summons: Unlawful Detainer, Complaint for Unlawful Detainer
  When & How: If you don’t pay or vacate after being served the 14-Day Notice, your landlord may file these forms in court. If you receive them, it means the eviction lawsuit has started.
  Washington Court Eviction Forms

If you make a partial payment, always ask your landlord for a written repayment plan. This can protect you from immediate eviction while you catch up.

What Is a Repayment Plan?

A repayment plan is a written agreement between you and your landlord to allow gradual payment of overdue rent. Washington law (RCW 59.18.630) requires repayment plans during emergencies and encourages written plans in other cases. Without a signed plan, making just a partial payment may not prevent eviction.

What To Do If You Receive a 14-Day Notice

If you get a 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate:

• Check your records to confirm the amount owed.
• Gather any payment receipts or communication with your landlord.
• If you can, pay the full amount before the deadline.
• If you can pay only part of the rent, ask your landlord (in writing) to enter a repayment agreement.
• If you believe the notice is incorrect, or you need help responding, contact your local legal aid office or Washington Attorney General’s Office.

Act quickly—ignoring the notice can lead to court proceedings.

FAQ: Partial Rent Payments and Eviction in Washington

1. Does making a partial rent payment stop eviction in Washington?
   No, making a partial payment does not automatically stop the eviction process. The landlord can still pursue eviction unless both sides sign a written repayment agreement.
2. What is a 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate?
   It’s a legal notice given by a landlord stating you have 14 days to pay all overdue rent in full or move out before the landlord can file for eviction.
3. Who handles tenant-landlord disputes and evictions in Washington?
   Local Superior or District Courts handle these cases. You can find court information on the Washington Courts official website.
4. Can I request a repayment plan if I can’t pay all my rent?
   Yes. Washington law allows you to request a repayment plan, especially during a declared emergency. It should always be in writing.
5. Where can I get official tenant-landlord forms in Washington?
   Forms are available at the Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources and Washington Courts Eviction Forms page.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General - Landlord-Tenant Resources: Official forms, complaint options, and guides.
• Washington Law Help: Free legal information for renters.
• Washington Courts: Find court forms, locations, and procedural information.
• For local help: Contact your county’s Superior or District Court or seek legal aid clinics in your area.

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1. Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. King County District Court – Eviction Process

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