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.