Rent arrears tool

Rent arrears payment plan letter

Write to your landlord early, explain the arrears, and propose a realistic plan before the situation escalates.

Letter builder

Build your arrears payment proposal

Use this to set out what you owe, what you can pay now, and how you will clear the balance without making promises you cannot keep.

Draft output

Your letter

Dear [Landlord or agent name],

Re: Rent arrears payment plan for [Rental property address]

I am writing about the rent arrears on my account. I understand the arrears are currently [Total arrears] and that my normal rent is [Normal rent].

The reason for the arrears is:

[Brief reason for arrears]

I want to resolve this and avoid the arrears increasing. I can make the following payment now:

[Payment you can make now]

I propose the following repayment plan, in addition to paying my normal rent when it falls due:

[Proposed instalments]

I am also taking these steps to improve the position:

[Support or benefit steps you are taking]

Please confirm whether you will accept this plan. I suggest reviewing the arrangement on [Date to review the plan] to make sure payments are being made and the balance is reducing.

I will keep a copy of this letter and all payments made. Please send me an updated rent statement showing the arrears balance and any charges applied.

Yours sincerely,

[Your name]

Practical workflow

How to use this tool well

The draft is strongest when it is backed by dates, amounts, agreement wording, and evidence. Work through these steps before sending it.

1

Work out the true arrears balance and check for errors or fees.

2

Prioritise ongoing rent so the arrears do not keep growing.

3

Offer a payment amount that is sustainable, not just optimistic.

4

Put every payment in writing and keep receipts or bank confirmations.

Why writing early helps

Rent arrears are serious because they can lead to possession action. A payment plan letter will not remove that risk by itself, but it shows you are engaging, asking for a statement, and offering a practical route to reduce the balance.

GOV.UK guidance says rent arrears can lead to eviction and that the notice and court rules depend on tenancy type. Since May 1, 2026, assured periodic tenancy rules are different from the old assured shorthold tenancy framework.

Make the plan realistic

A repayment offer should sit on top of normal rent. If your normal rent is not paid, arrears can keep growing even while you make instalments. Work out an amount you can repeat every week or month without missing food, energy, travel, council tax, or priority debt payments.

If your arrears are linked to benefits or temporary income problems, say what steps you are taking, but avoid sharing more personal detail than needed.

When to get help

Get advice straight away if you receive a section 8 notice, a notice seeking possession, court papers, or a threat that the locks will be changed. Do not ignore letters because you are embarrassed; advisers can often help with payment plans, benefit issues, and court preparation.

Frequently asked questions

Can a payment plan stop eviction?

A payment plan can help, but it does not automatically stop a landlord from taking action. If you receive a notice or court papers, get advice immediately.

How much should I offer each month?

Offer what you can sustain after normal rent and essential bills. A smaller reliable payment is usually better than a large promise you miss after one month.

Should I include personal reasons for arrears?

Keep it brief and relevant. Explain enough for the landlord to understand the situation and why the plan is realistic, but do not share sensitive details unless they help your case.

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