Common options and best practice for paying rent
Landlords and property managers often accept either cheques or online payment methods (such as Paypal, Venmo, CashApp).
Generally these have high fees, which sometimes the landlord or property management company doesn't cover. So you have to factor them into the cost.
Landlords and property managers nearly always accept a money order, addressed to them or the company as payee. These can be created at your local grocery store or post office and have a very low cost (around $1). They are a safe and quick way to make payments. ID verification may be required so make sure you are using your Case Worker card (in your name) or your Agency/Organization’s card.
Instructions for option 1
Set up a “work account” on the landlord or property manager’s preferred payment app (PayPal, Venmo etc.) Use your work email address and keep this separate from any personal accounts you have.
Link up your ESTHER Case Worker card, or the recipient’s card to the account. Use the name on the card and your office/organization’s registered address when you fill in the information.
Incorporate the fee (if there is one) associated with this payment method into your card or the recipient's card load amount so you are not short once the payment reaches the account of the payee.
When confirming the payment, email the landlord or property manager to let them know you are sending it through, and ask for proof of receipt.
Instructions for option 2
A few notes to consider when using money orders:
They are pre-paid so people accept them like cash.
They are widely used in government assisted housing.
Widely available in grocery/convenience stores and post office.
They have a $1,000 cap. If you have a payment to make which is over the cap, break it up into 2 or 3 money orders.
Find a location that allows you to purchase a money order.
Pay for the money order using your ESTHER card/recipient ESTHER card and fill it out with the relevant information.
Allow for the extra c$1 charge when purchasing the money order.
Post or deliver to the landlord/property manager’s address.