Keeping clear rent receipts and records helps renters in New Brunswick protect their rights, track payments, and resolve disputes with landlords. Whether you pay by cash, e-transfer, cheque or other methods, simple documentation — a dated receipt, the amount, the period covered and a signature — can make the difference when questions arise about late payments, deposits or move-out charges. This guide explains what a valid rent receipt looks like, how to request and store records, what official forms and tribunal steps may apply in NB, and practical actions to take if a landlord refuses to provide receipts. It is written for tenants and renters who want straightforward steps and links to the appropriate provincial resources.
What is a rent receipt and why it matters
A rent receipt is a short written record showing a landlord received rent for a specific date or period. Receipts are key evidence if there is disagreement about whether rent was paid, when it was paid, or how much was paid. Keep originals or scanned copies of receipts and any related bank records or messages. If you need to raise a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, documented receipts make your case clearer and faster to process.[2]
What belongs in a proper rent receipt
- Payment amount: the exact dollar amount paid and the currency (e.g., CAD).
- Date paid: the calendar date you made the payment.
- Period covered: the month(s) or rental period the payment is for (for example, "April 1–30, 2026").
- Payment method: cash, e-transfer, cheque, or other method used.
- Received by: name or signature of the person who accepted the payment and contact details if available.
- Optional details: receipt number or a brief note (e.g., "partial payment", "last month’s rent").
How to request receipts and keep records
Ask your landlord or property manager directly and politely for a receipt after each payment, especially if you pay in cash. A written request by email or text creates a record showing you asked. If the landlord provides receipts only on request, make sure to save a copy each time. Consider using traceable payment methods (e-transfer, cheque, bank transfer) that already create a record you can pair with the receipt.
If a landlord refuses to give receipts
If a landlord refuses to provide receipts, send a written request and keep a copy. If the refusal continues, you can raise the issue with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick and include any bank records, messages, and your written requests as evidence.[1] You may also want to review Tenant''s Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for additional steps about payment records and disputes.
FAQ
- Does my landlord have to give me a rent receipt?
- Ask for one every time you pay; if a landlord refuses, document your request and consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for help. Official options are available through provincial processes.[1]
- How long should I keep rent records?
- Keep receipts, bank records, and related communications for at least the length of your tenancy and for a reasonable time afterward (commonly one to three years) in case of disputes about deposits, arrears, or damage claims.
- What official forms or applications might I need?
- You may need to file an Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or provide a written Notice or Request depending on the issue; see tribunal guidance and forms for exact steps and examples.[1]
How-To
- Submit a written request to your landlord asking for a receipt for each payment and specifying the period covered.
- Pay by a traceable method where possible (e-transfer, cheque, bank transfer) so you have backup records.
- Keep scanned copies or photos of receipts in a dated folder on your phone or cloud storage.
- When disputing a charge or non-payment claim, present the organized receipts, bank records and any written communications as evidence.
- If the landlord still refuses, file the appropriate application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Always get and keep receipts or payment records to protect yourself.
- Send written requests and keep copies if a landlord refuses to provide receipts.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for unresolved disputes and follow official forms and deadlines.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and tenant information, Government of New Brunswick
