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

What the law says

1. 1

   Your landlord must give you 14 days notice to pay before they can take you to court.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.
2. 2

   The notice must say why you are getting it. It must state that you did not pay rent, utilities (such as water, electric, and gas), or other regular charges.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.
3. 3

   Any money you pay your landlord must go first to the amount listed on the notice.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.

Talk to your landlord

4. 4

   Free or low-cost mediation (a meeting with a neutral person who helps you and your landlord agree) is available before any court case starts. Dispute resolution centers across the state offer it.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.

Get help paying rent

5. 5

   The Washington Attorney General lists rental assistance (money to help pay rent) programs. That office also has this notice in other languages.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.
6. 6

   For more help, call 2-1-1. Renters age 60 and over can call 888-387-7111.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.

If you still cannot pay

7. 7

   If you have a low income, the court may give you a lawyer at no cost to you. To ask for a free lawyer, call the Eviction Defense Screening Line at 855-657-8387. You can also apply online.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.
8. 8

   You have the right to an interpreter at court.

   Source:

   1. RCW 59.18.057(1), Washington State Legislature. Law.