Payment Support
SweetLease is free for renters. This page explains the payments you may make to a property and where to find help if paying rent gets hard.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
This guide covers what SweetLease charges, paying a property, and rental assistance resources.
What SweetLease Charges
Nothing. SweetLease never charges renters a subscription, sign-up fee or placement fee. Landlords pay us a referral fee when you sign a lease.
Paying a Property
Application fees, security deposits and rent are set by each property and your lease. If you pay a property through SweetLease, the payment is processed securely by Stripe and your receipt shows what it was for.
- Ask the property which payment methods it accepts and whether it charges a card fee
- Check your lease for due dates, grace periods and late fees
- Keep every receipt until your lease ends and your deposit is returned
Payment Issues
Failed Payment
If your payment fails:
- Check that your payment method is valid and has enough funds
- Update your payment method if needed and try again
- Tell the property right away. Late fees, if any, are set by your lease
Disputed Charges
If you see a charge you don't recognize:
- Review your payment history under Payments
- Contact the property about charges it made
- SweetLease does not charge renters. If you see a charge from SweetLease you don't recognize, email [email protected]
Rental Assistance Programs
If you're struggling to pay rent, several assistance programs may be available:
Federal Programs
- Emergency rental assistance: Many cities and counties run their own programs. Ask your local housing authority or call 211
- Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Helps low-income families afford safe housing
- Public Housing: Affordable housing for low-income families, elderly, and people with disabilities
State and Local Programs
Many states and localities offer additional assistance:
- Temporary rental assistance
- Utility assistance programs
- Security deposit assistance
- Homelessness prevention programs
Non-Profit Organizations
These organizations may provide rental assistance:
- The Salvation Army
- Catholic Charities
- United Way (211 helpline)
- Local community action agencies
- Religious organizations and churches
Communicating with Your Landlord
If you're having difficulty paying rent:
- Contact your landlord as soon as possible
- Explain your situation honestly
- Propose a payment plan if needed
- Get any agreements in writing
- Keep documentation of all communications
Many landlords are willing to work with tenants who communicate proactively.
Finding Assistance
To find rental assistance programs in your area:
- Visit HUD.gov for federal programs
- Call 211 to connect with local resources
- Contact your local housing authority
- Search online for "[Your City] rental assistance"
- Reach out to local social services agencies
Need More Help?
Contact our support team about:
- A payment made through SweetLease that didn't go through
- A charge you don't recognize
- General payment questions
Payment plans and late fees are set by your landlord, so contact the property about those.
Email: [email protected]
Text: (866) 643-5855
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM Eastern. We reply within one business day.