Can my landlord in Yukon refuse to accept cash for rent?

No, Yukon landlords must accept cash unless your signed agreement specifies otherwise. Always ask for a receipt.

What evidence should I keep after paying rent?

Keep paper or digital receipts, copies of cheques, or e-transfer confirmations as proof of payment.

What if my landlord refuses my preferred payment method?

Communicate your concerns in writing. If unresolved, submit Form 2 to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Do tenants in Yukon have to use post-dated cheques?

No, unless you agreed in writing. Tenants can usually choose among cash, cheque, or e-transfer.

Legal Ways to Pay Rent in Yukon: Cash, Cheque, or E-transfer Explained

Rent & Deposits Yukon published: June 20, 2025

Knowing how you can legally pay your rent in Yukon is essential for protecting your rights as a tenant. Whether you prefer cash, cheque, or e-transfer, Yukon tenancy laws outline what landlords can request and what tenants are allowed to use. This article reviews your payment options, explains how to keep proper records, and provides landlord-tenant best practices using current Yukon legislation.

Which Methods of Rent Payment Are Legal in Yukon?

Under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)¹, tenants and landlords are free to agree on lawful forms of rent payment as part of the tenancy agreement. The most common methods include:

Cash: Legal and widely used, but always request a written receipt for every payment. Landlords are required to provide a receipt if asked.
Cheque: Accepted (post-dated cheques are common), but tenants cannot be forced to pay by post-dated cheque unless both parties agree.
E-transfer: Electronic fund transfers are increasingly popular. Make sure to save an electronic or print record of successful transfers for your own protection.

Tenants cannot be required to pay rent by automatic deductions from their wages or by providing post-dated cheques, unless clearly agreed in writing. Landlords must not refuse legal tender in Canada, such as cash, if the tenant requests it, unless the tenancy agreement contains a different mutually agreed payment method.

Best Practices for Paying Rent

Always pay rent on time and through the method set out in your rental agreement.
Request a receipt with the landlord’s signature and date for all cash, cheque, or e-transfer payments.
Keep copies of cheques and digital proof of e-transfers.
Communicate in writing if you need to change your payment method, and get landlord agreement in writing.

Proper record-keeping protects you in the case of disputes or misunderstandings. For more tips on making secure payments, visit the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

What If the Landlord Won’t Accept Your Preferred Payment Method?

If your landlord insists on a payment method not outlined in the lease—for example, refusing to accept e-transfer or only demanding post-dated cheques—you can request that the rent be accepted in a lawful manner. The key is to document your communication, and, if necessary, seek advice from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

If your landlord refuses lawful rent or won’t provide a receipt for payment, you can file a complaint with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Filing a Complaint: Forms and Process

In Yukon, if you have a rent payment dispute, you can apply for help using Form 2 – Application to Settle a Dispute. This is used for issues such as a landlord refusing a legal payment method, not providing receipts, or alleging non-payment of rent. You can find the form and instructions on the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office website.
Example: If your landlord will not accept your e-transfer for rent, complete and submit Form 2 to request an official resolution.

Security and Peace of Mind

Staying organized with rent records helps avoid conflict. If you pay your deposit at the start of a lease, be sure your landlord gives you a receipt and keeps your money in trust. To learn more about deposits, check out Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

If you ever pay with cash, ask for a signed receipt showing the amount, date, address, and both parties' names—never hand over cash without this!

Your Rights and Responsibilities After Signing

Understanding your ongoing payment and record-keeping responsibilities helps build a strong tenancy relationship. For a full overview, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For a broad look at tenant and landlord roles, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon. If you’re searching for your next home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions: Rent Payment in Yukon

Can my landlord in Yukon refuse to accept cash for rent?
Landlords cannot refuse cash as payment unless your written rental agreement says otherwise. If you pay in cash, always request a receipt.
Does my landlord have to give me a rent receipt?
Yes, Yukon landlords must provide a rent receipt upon request for any payment method, including cash and e-transfer.
What should I do if my landlord refuses my e-transfer?
Try to discuss and resolve the issue first. If unresolved, contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office and submit Form 2 – Application to Settle a Dispute.
Is it legal to pay rent with post-dated cheques in Yukon?
Yes, but you can only be required to provide post-dated cheques if you agree to it in the rental agreement. Otherwise, you may choose another allowed method.
How do I prove I paid rent if my landlord won’t provide a receipt?
Keep copies of cheques, e-transfer confirmations, or take photos of your cash payment and note the date and time. These can serve as proof in a dispute.

Key Takeaways

Yukon law allows rent to be paid by cash, cheque, or e-transfer if both parties agree and the payment method is documented.
Always obtain and keep rent receipts—this protects you as a tenant.
If there is a payment dispute or your landlord refuses a legal payment, seek support from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Understanding your rights on rent payments helps maintain a fair tenancy and avoid unnecessary issues later.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Main contact for tenancy issues, official forms, and dispute resolution. Visit the Residential Tenancies Office or call 867-667-5944
Download Forms: Official Yukon tenancy forms
Tenant Resources: For general questions or help, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon