Arizona Tribune - How Early Communication Can Help You Avoid Eviction

Options are available to help you get back on your feet and avoid eviction. Solutions like government assistance programs, gig work and a rent loan could help fill the gap in your finances. However, the first step is to communicate early and often with people in your life who could help.

Let's look at how early communication may help you avoid the stress of an eviction.

Talk to your landlord

Asking your landlord for help may seem challenging-it's hard enough to reach out to get your toilet fixed. But the sooner you tell your landlord about your situation, the sooner you may find a solution.

Your landlord might be able to work with you to develop a payment plan before you reach the point of eviction. A payment plan could help you stay in your home while you pull together what you owe. If your landlord is open to such a plan, be prepared to show what steps you're actively taking toward paying them back.

Other options could include offering up your security deposit in place of next month's rent or agreeing to help with maintenance or repairs around the property. Think about skills you have that could help your landlord and potentially make them more amenable to working with you. No matter what you decide, it's essential to get any agreement with your landlord in writing.

At the end of the day, your landlord is a person, too. They likely don't want to deal with eviction proceedings or finding a new tenant. Being proactive and starting the conversation early could save you both time in the long run.

Contact local government assistance programs

Depending on where you live, you may be able to find assistance programs that help people facing eviction. Some local, state and federal agencies provide legal or financial support. Community resources are there to help you understand the procedures your landlord must follow when initiating an eviction.

For example, New York City's Right-to-Counsel law guarantees tenants free legal representation in Housing Court via the city's Department of Social Services. Massachusetts' Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program provides direct financial assistance to low-income residents at risk of losing their homes.

If you're worried about a possible eviction, start researching the resources available in your area. There's no harm in asking for help. You may be able to get legal or financial support to avoid an eviction.

Ask for advice from a lawyer

Housing law may be confusing or overwhelming. A lawyer could help you navigate the legal landscape and inform you of your rights as a tenant. Many law firms and organizations offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case.

Contact your local bar association or legal aid society for a referral. By enlisting the help of a lawyer before you reach the point of eviction, you may be better prepared to negotiate with your landlord.

Reach out to close friends or family

Nobody wants to seem like they're bothering people or asking for an unreasonable favor. But there's no shame in talking openly about your struggles. Take a deep breath, calm your mind and reach out to your friends and loved ones. If you communicate with the people closest to you early enough, you could build support before you need emergency help. You may be surprised by how many people are willing to pitch in.

Speak up with confidence

Facing eviction could be stressful enough without the added anxiety of talking about it. But the sooner you communicate with your landlord and tap into the resources around you, the better prepared you may be to find a solution that works for everyone. Don't be afraid to speak up-help could be just around the corner.

CONTACT:

Sonakshi Murze
Manager
[email protected]

SOURCE: OneMain Financial

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

T.Perez--AT