If you are experiencing a financial hardship, paying your bills can be about as pleasant as a root canal. Sometimes you have no choice but to be late on your rent. An apology letter to your landlord might help your relationship. While some landlords will be angry no matter what, others might be understanding and forgive the late payment fee. Here are three sample apology letters for late rent.
Always be very truthful when writing your letter. It is best to type it, if possible. Try to use business letter format. If you need help, please read “How to Write a Business Letter.”
Sample Apology Letter If You Need Extra Time to Pay the Rent
Dear Mr. Smith,
I want to sincerely apologize for being late on my rent. I realize I am three days late, and I am very sorry that I still cannot pay you. I hope to be able to pay you no later than the Friday the 12th.
I do understand that this creates an inconvenience for you. I am very sorry and I know that this is probably very frustrating.
I would like to explain why I cannot pay at this time. My son got very ill two weeks ago with a stomach virus. I had to take three unpaid days off from work. In addition, I had to pay for his medicine and the $50 copay to see the doctor. My paycheck was short for the following week. I had to use all of it to pay for his daycare (they will not let him come if I am late, and then I cannot work at all) and for food.
My next payday is Friday the 12th. I plan to pay you the rent then. I am kindly asking you to waive the $25.00 late payment fee, if possible. I ask you this because I have paid promptly on time for the past 10 months. I understand if this is not possible, however because of my financial situation, I thought I would ask.
Again, I sincerely apologize. I will send my rent payment as soon as I get paid. Thank-you for understanding.
Respectfully,
Tina Tenant
Sample Apology Letter Including Late Rent Payment
Dear. Mrs. Jones,
I have enclosed my rent payment, along with the late payment fee of $20.00. I would like to sincerely apologize for being three weeks late on my rent.
I understand that a late rent payment does create an inconvenience for you. The reason I am late is because my car broke down and needed a new water pump. Since I need the vehicle to get to work, I had to pay the car repair bills first. I had to wait until my next pay day to be able to pay my rent.
Thank-you for your understanding. You have been a great landlord.
Sincerely,
Terry Tenant
Sample Apology Letter Without Explaining the Reason
Dear Mr. McLandlord,
I am very sorry that l am late for my July rent payment. I am currently experiencing a major financial crisis. Because of this situation, I am unable to make my rent at this time. I have family that is planning to help me, and I hope to get the rent to you no latter than July 11lth.
I sincerely apologize for being late on my rent. I do realize this creates a inconvenience for you. I am very sorry.
Respectfully,
Sara Smith
These are just three sample letters to help you write your own apology letter. If you have lost your job, or have a serious crisis (such as high medical bills) it might be time to seek assistance. Trying calling 211 or your local United Way for referrals. It is hard to find assistance with rent, however, you can (almost) always get help with food. That would help free up some money to help pay your rent. Also, many churches have benevolence programs and might be able to help you.
You also might read, “How to Make Money Fast: 5 Ways to Earn Money Quickly” Good Luck!
