I need help paying my rent today. What are my options?

If you need an emergency loan, one option is to take out a credit card cash advance by visiting an ATM. This is an expensive option because you accrue interest the moment you withdraw the cash. Another option if you need help paying your rent today is to get a payday loan, which you can apply for online and get approved for within minutes, with funds e-transferred to your account often within an hour. Payday loans are one of the most expensive borrowing options though, so consider other emergency rent options first. If you can wait a little longer, a cheaper option is to take out a personal or installment loan with an online lender. Although not as fast as withdrawing from an ATM, there are online lenders that can fund you on the same business day or the next business day. Compare online lenders of personal loans and installment loans now.

Where can I get a rent subsidy?

The best place to get a rent subsidy is from your provincial/territorial government or city government. All Canadian provinces and territories offer rent subsidy programs to support low- to moderate-income individuals experiencing financial hardship. Currently, the Government of Canada doesn't offer a federal rent subsidy for individuals. However, businesses may be eligible to retroactively apply for the CEWS subsidy (Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy) or CERS subsidy (Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy), which help cover losses from revenue drops due to the pandemic.

Can you use student loans for rent?

Yes, you can use student loans for rent payments. Student loans – whether it be government or private student loans – are meant to help you cover all expenses related to your time in school, which includes expenses beyond tuition and books like rent, groceries, utilities and other living costs.

What are my rights as a tenant?

As a tenant of a rental property, you have the right to safe, livable housing. Your province may have special rules regarding eviction or rent nonpayment, so browse tenants' rights laws by province to see what legal protections you have if you're unable to make your rent.

How long can I go without paying rent?

Laws vary by province, and your landlord may have their own terms set out in your contract. You might want to speak to an attorney to get help specific to your situation.

What happens if I don't pay rent?

Consider contacting your landlord as soon as you realize you won't be able to meet the rent payment deadline. You may be able to work out a temporary alternative payment plan, which would be the simplest option for both you and your landlord. Make sure to get any agreement in writing. However, your landlord has the legal right to take steps to evict you through the Landlord and Tenant Board starting from the day after you miss a rent payment. That process may look different depending on where you live, but will generally involve the landlord first sending you an official notice to end your tenancy for non-payment, which will often give you anywhere from 7-14 days to pay outstanding rent. If you don't pay everything by the deadline, the landlord can then apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to evict you. At that point you may still be able to make an agreement with your landlord to pay all outstanding rent and stay in the home. Otherwise, you may be able to challenge the eviction with the Landlord and Tenant Board and win the right to remain in the house. At that point, it may be worth contacting a lawyer to discuss what the best course of action is.

Should I hire a tenants' rights attorney?

A tenants' rights attorney might be helpful if your landlord is violating the terms of your lease or if you're facing eviction. However, you should know the costs of going to court — especially if you owe back rent or fees. See if a lawyer is willing to discuss your case at a lower rate or pro bono before pursuing legal action.