No one signs a lease with the intention of falling behind on rent. Since life is unpredictable, though, many Americans find themselves facing eviction at some point. However, if you have missed one or more rent payments, an eviction is not necessarily inevitable. Depending on the circumstances, arranging a payment plan with the landlord, hiring an attorney, or declaring bankruptcy could resolve the situation. Here is what you should know about each of these strategies for avoiding eviction. 

What to Do if You Cannot Make Rent 

1. Negotiate With the Landlord

If you fail to pay rent after losing your job but manage to secure employment a short while later, it may be possible to negotiate with the landlord. Eviction proceedings are stressful for both parties involved, and chances are the property owner will be willing to work with you to avoid the hassle of going to court. This approach may not be an option if you rent from a large company. However, individual landlords are often happy to devise payment plans if the tenant can catch up fairly fast. 

2. Seek Legal Counsel 

If your landlord threatens eviction—or has already sent a notice to vacate—it’s wise to call an attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer who is familiar with local laws will review the situation and help determine how to proceed based on the circumstances. Your legal team will also ensure the landlord does not violate your rights at any stage. 

3. Declare Bankruptcy 

If the landlord has not yet filed an eviction suit, declaring bankruptcy could provide the breathing room needed to determine your next move. After submitting the petition, the court will enact an automatic stay. Although the landlord can request to lift this stay, doing so means more paperwork.

Filing bankruptcy after eviction proceedings have commenced will not stall them, but it could help you obtain new housing. Property owners are not inclined to rent to those who owe outstanding debts to other landlords. By declaring bankruptcy, you can discharge such debts and achieve a clean slate in the future.

If you’re struggling financially, turn to the compassionate team at O’Connor, Mikita & Davidson in Cincinnati, OH. Instead of passing judgment, their bankruptcy attorneys will evaluate the situation from all angles and help you determine the best way to regain your financial footing. They can also help you with other complicated legal issues, including those that fall under family, personal injury, and probate law. Visit their website to learn more about their practice areas, or call (513) 793-5297 to schedule an initial consultation with a bankruptcy attorney on their team.