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Friday, Oct. 10, 2025

Do CT landlords need to offer at least one way to pay rent without a service fee?

Mariana Navarrete Villegas, CT Mirror

yes

Under Connecticut law, landlords must accept at least one method of payment — for rent or security deposits — that does not involve a service fee, like a check or a money order.

Digital rent payments, like those made online with a credit card, debit card or ACH transfer, often incur a processing fee. These service fees are usually between 1% and 3%. 

Sections 47a-4c of state law specifies landlords are prohibited from requiring electronic funds transfer as the exclusive form of payment for any lease or rental agreement executed on or after October 1, 2013. If a tenant wants to avoid service fees, a money order or a check can be used.

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