Paying your rent in New Brunswick can be done in several ways, but it's important for tenants to understand their legal rights and obligations. This article covers what the law says about rent payment methods—cash, cheque, and e-transfer—so you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure your payments are always properly recorded. Whether you're new to renting or want to make sure your current process is legal, this guide will keep you on the right track under New Brunswick law.
Legal Ways to Pay Rent in New Brunswick
New Brunswick tenants and landlords often agree on a rent payment method in the lease, but the province’s rental laws set clear rules to protect both sides. Common legal payment methods include:
- Cash
- Cheque (personal or certified)
- E-transfer (such as Interac e-transfer)
Landlords cannot require you to pay only by a specific method—for example, cash—or restrict you from using another reasonable method unless it's clearly stated and mutually agreed in your rental agreement.
Paying by Cash: Rights and Protections
If you pay rent in cash, always request a written receipt at the time of payment. This receipt should clearly show:
- Date of payment
- Amount paid
- Period the payment covers (e.g. June 1–30)
- Property address
- Landlord's (or agent’s) signature
Paying by Cheque or E-transfer
Personal and certified cheques are widely used and provide a record of payment through your bank. When using e-transfer (like Interac), make sure to:
- Send payment to the correct email or account
- Double-check the security question and answer if required
- Save all e-transfer confirmation emails or screenshots
With digital payments, these records serve a similar purpose to receipts, but you can also ask your landlord for a receipt for extra reassurance.
Mandatory Rent Receipts
In New Brunswick, landlords are required by law to provide a receipt for any rent paid in cash on request. It is a best practice for tenants paying via cheque or e-transfer to ask for a receipt, too, although the record from your bank or email trail also serves as proof of payment.
What the Law Says: Residential Tenancies in New Brunswick
All tenancy matters—including how rent is paid—are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick1, which sets out rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords.
Disputes, including those about rent payments and receipts, are handled by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. If your landlord refuses to accept a reasonable payment method or won't give you a receipt, you can contact the Tribunal for assistance or to make a formal complaint.
Forms and Practical Steps for Tenants
If you need to file a complaint or resolve a dispute regarding payment methods or receipts, use these official forms:
- Form 6: Tenant Application for Assistance – Use this if you believe your landlord is not following the law about rent payment methods or receipts. Download Form 6 (Tenant Application for Assistance).
To file the form:
- Complete all required sections with details about your payment dispute
- Attach copies of any receipts, emails, or bank records
- Submit the form to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in-person, by mail, or as directed on the form
Learn more by reviewing Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for additional advice on protecting yourself when handling rent payments.
What to Expect if Payment Issues Arise
If a landlord refuses to accept a reasonable rent payment (such as cheque or e-transfer), withholds a receipt, or insists on cash only, tenants are encouraged to:
- Communicate in writing with your landlord stating your preferred payment method
- Keep records of all correspondence and payment receipts
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for advice or to submit a formal complaint using Form 6
For more on your rights and responsibilities as a tenant after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
Summary of Paying Rent in New Brunswick
Tenants in New Brunswick have the right to pay rent in cash, by cheque, or e-transfer. Always keep records, request receipts, and act if your landlord fails to comply. For broader info on tenant protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
You can also browse apartments for rent in Canada across all provinces and cities with a convenient map view.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord refuse to accept e-transfer or cheque?
Generally, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a standard payment method like e-transfer or cheque, unless your rental agreement specifically outlines restrictions and both parties agreed. - What do I do if my landlord won’t give me a rent receipt?
You can request one in writing. If refused, gather your payment proof and submit Form 6 to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for help. - Is it safe to pay rent in cash?
It is legal, but only safe if you always get a signed, dated receipt showing all details. Never pay cash without a receipt. - Do I need to use the same payment method every month?
No, unless the lease says otherwise. Tenants may switch methods with clear communication, but notify your landlord in advance. - What if my payment is late because of a banking issue?
Communicate delays to your landlord in writing as soon as possible and retain all payment records if needed for a Tribunal dispute.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Brunswick Tenants
- You may pay rent by cash, cheque, or e-transfer — ensure all payments are well-documented.
- Always collect or create receipts for every rental payment.
- For payment disputes, use Form 6 and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for assistance.
Keeping records and understanding your rights protects you from rent disputes and helps maintain a good tenant–landlord relationship.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick – Official resource for forms, rights, complaints, and information
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) – Review your legal rights and obligations
- Local community legal clinics or tenants' advice lines are often available for support
