Can't Pay Rent in Philadelphia: What Are My Options?

This is not legal advice. We explain what the law says. We cannot tell you what to do in your situation. For that, talk to a lawyer. Find free legal and rent help in Philadelphia.

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Missing rent does not mean you lose your home right away. In Philadelphia, your landlord must go through the Eviction Diversion Program, a city program to settle rent disputes, before filing in court. The city also offers rental assistance (money to help pay rent) and free lawyers for renters who qualify. For late fees, judgments (the court's final decisions), and eviction records, see the Pennsylvania state guide.

  1. Philadelphia Municipal Court's information sheet says self-help by a landlord is not permitted. Your landlord may not change the locks, cut off utilities (water, electric, gas), or remove your things from the home. Philadelphia law says a lawful eviction needs a court judgment (the court's final decision in your case) giving your landlord possession. Only a Sheriff or a court-appointed landlord and tenant officer can carry it out.

    Philadelphia Municipal Court, First Judicial District of Pennsylvania Information About Landlord-Tenant Court City of Philadelphia — Philadelphia Code Phila. Code § 9-1603(1)

  2. While the city runs its Eviction Diversion Program, your landlord must take part before filing an eviction case in Municipal Court. Your landlord must sign up and send you a notice of your diversion rights. Then your landlord must take part in good faith, as the city defines it, for at least 30 days. This does not apply if eviction is needed to stop an imminent threat of harm by you.

    City of Philadelphia, Eviction Diversion Program FAQ: Who is required to participate in the Eviction Diversion Program? The Philadelphia Code § 9-811(2)

  3. Philadelphia's Eviction Diversion Program has a Tenant Hotline. Call 215-523-9501, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call if you have not heard from the program.

    City of Philadelphia, Eviction Diversion Program FAQ: How will I know what I need to do during the Eviction Diversion Program?

  4. Philadelphia's Eviction Diversion Program (EDP) also offers Targeted Financial Assistance (TFA). TFA is a one-time payment from the city to your landlord for what you already owe. If you will keep living there at least 2 more months, it also covers 2 more months of rent. Your back rent must be $3,500 or less. Your landlord must agree to certain terms. Landlords apply through the EDP application. Tenants cannot apply to EDP.

    City of Philadelphia, Eviction Diversion Program FAQ: What is Targeted Financial Assistance?

  5. For free legal help with eviction, call the Philly Tenant Hotline at (267) 443-2500. The hotline can tell you about your options, including free lawyers if you qualify.

    City of Philadelphia, Department of Planning and Development Get free legal help to avoid eviction

  6. Low income renters in 10 Philadelphia zip codes may qualify for a free lawyer. This is through a program called Right to Counsel, for eviction cases. You may qualify if your income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. For one person, that level is $15,960 a year, so 200% is $31,920. The zip codes are 19121, 19124, 19131, 19132, 19134, 19139, 19141, 19144, 19153, and 19154. Your immigration status does not affect whether you qualify.

    RenterLaw editorial City of Philadelphia, Department of Planning and Development Get free legal help to avoid eviction: Eligibility U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ASPE 2026 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia

Published by Nazanin · September 24, 2026 · sources checked September 23, 2026

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