As a tenant in British Columbia, having an official record of your rent payments is essential for protecting your rights. Whether you’re preparing for tax season, need proof of payment for a deposit return, or are facing disputes, knowing how to obtain a rent receipt—especially if your landlord refuses—can make a big difference in your rental experience. This guide will walk you through your rights and practical steps, with up-to-date legal information and support resources tailored for BC renters.

Why Rent Receipts Matter for Tenants in BC

A rent receipt is a written acknowledgment from your landlord confirming that you paid your rent. Receipts are helpful for:

• Proving payment in deposit disputes or legal claims
• Documenting payments when applying for benefits or tax credits
• Supporting your records in case of misunderstandings or disagreements

In British Columbia, many tenants pay via e-transfer, cheque, or cash. Regardless of the method, a written receipt gives you added security.

Your Right to a Rent Receipt in British Columbia

British Columbia's Residential Tenancy Act requires that landlords provide a receipt for any rent paid in cash (Section 26(4)). For non-cash payments, receipts are not automatic but can still be requested. It’s always best to keep your own payment records but asking for a receipt is a vital tenant right, especially for cash payments.^[1]

How to Request a Rent Receipt (Even if Landlord Refuses)

If your landlord refuses to provide a rent receipt, here’s how you can assert your right and document your request:

• Politely request in writing. Email or text your landlord, clearly and kindly requesting a receipt for your payment and referencing your address and payment details.
• Mention the law. Inform your landlord that BC law requires receipts for cash payments, referencing Section 26(4) of the Residential Tenancy Act.
• Keep all written correspondence as evidence in case you need to escalate the matter.

If you pay by e-transfer, bank transfer, or cheque, your bank statements serve as proof of payment. However, many organizations (like some immigration or subsidy programs) may still want an official receipt.

What to Do If the Landlord Still Refuses

If your landlord ignores your request or refuses the receipt, you have several options:

• Send a formal written request (sample letter available on the Residential Tenancy Branch website).
• Contact the BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) for guidance.
• Apply for dispute resolution with the RTB if needed. This is the official process for resolving rental disputes in BC.

Relevant Official Form

• RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution
  If the issue remains unresolved, this is the form you use to apply for a decision from the RTB regarding your landlord’s refusal to provide a receipt. For example, if you face eviction proceedings and the landlord claims non-payment, you’ll need this form to dispute their claim by showing your payment evidence.
  Download RTB-12 from the BC government

Filing with the RTB is a serious step but ensures your right to proof of payment is upheld if your landlord remains uncooperative.

Tips for Keeping Your Own Payment Records

Even when landlords are responsive, it's smart to keep a personal record:

• Save your bank statements, e-transfer confirmations, or cheque stubs
• Take photos or scans of physical receipts or cash payments
• List every rent payment in a simple log, noting the date, amount, and payment method

Your Rights After Paying Rent

Rent receipts are just one part of fulfilling and documenting your rental obligations in BC. For more on confirming your payments and what to expect, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips. If you need further details on your overall rights as a renter, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

FAQ: Rent Receipts for Tenants in BC

1. Can I demand a rent receipt for e-transfer or cheque payments?
   You can ask, but BC law only requires landlords to issue receipts for cash payments. However, many landlords will provide receipts on request.
2. What should a rent receipt in BC include?
   At a minimum: your name, address, amount paid, payment date, period covered (month), and landlord's name/signature.
3. What if my landlord keeps refusing a rent receipt?
   Keep asking in writing and save all payment evidence. If it’s a cash payment, consider escalating to the RTB using Form RTB-12.
4. Is my e-transfer or bank statement as good as a receipt?
   They are accepted as payment proof, but some organizations may need an official receipt from your landlord.
5. Where can I get more information about tenant rights in BC?
   Visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia for a comprehensive overview.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for BC Renters

• Tenants in BC have the right to receipts for cash rent payments under the law, and can request receipts for other payment methods
• Always make your request in writing and keep all correspondence as evidence
• If your landlord refuses, know the dispute process with the Residential Tenancy Branch and maintain your own records

These steps will help you stay protected throughout your tenancy, no matter the situation. For those searching for new homes, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—Canada's all-in-one rental listings platform.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) of BC: Province’s official tribunal and primary source for forms, guides, and dispute resolution
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Tenant advocacy and legal info
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia: Overview of key laws and rights for renters

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (BC): Section 26(4)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (Government of British Columbia)
3. RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution (Official BC Form)

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