Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Template
A notice to pay rent or quit is the formal first step before an eviction for unpaid rent in most states. This general template shows the standard elements. Check your state's exact requirements before serving it.
Fill in the details. The document below updates as you type.
Notice periods by state
| State | Notice for unpaid rent |
|---|---|
| California | 3 days (excluding weekends and court holidays) |
| Texas | 3 days to vacate unless the lease says otherwise; pay-or-vacate for first-time late tenants (2026) |
| Florida | 3 days (excluding weekends and legal holidays) |
| New York | 14-day rent demand (plus certified-mail late notice after 5 days) |
| Illinois | 5 days |
| Georgia | At least 3 business days' written demand before filing |
| North Carolina | 10 days |
| Ohio | 3 days to leave the premises |
| Pennsylvania | 10 days (can be waived in a written lease) |
| Arizona | 5 days |
| Washington | 14 days, with statutory language |
| Michigan | 7-day demand for possession |
| Colorado | 10 days |
| New Jersey | Generally no notice to quit required for nonpayment |
Common mistakes that invalidate a notice
Demanding more than rent
In many states the notice can only demand rent, not late fees, utilities or damages. Including other charges can make it defective.
Counting days wrong
Some states exclude weekends and holidays, and the day of service usually doesn't count. When in doubt, give an extra day.
Wrong delivery method
States specify how notices must be served (personally, left with an adult, posted and mailed). Texas no longer accepts posting on the outside of the door.
Missing required language
Several states and cities require specific statements, translations or resource information on the notice.
Before you get here
A pay-or-quit notice is a last resort, and an expensive one. Most late rent is prevented by reminders before the due date and quick, friendly follow-up after it. If a tenant is struggling, a written payment plan often gets you paid faster than an eviction.
Frequently asked questions
What does "pay or quit" mean?+
It means the tenant must either pay the rent owed in full within the notice period or move out ("quit" the premises). If they do neither, the landlord can file an eviction case.
Can I accept partial rent after serving a pay-or-quit notice?+
Be careful. In many states accepting partial payment can waive the notice and force you to start over. See our guide to partial rent payments and check your state's rules.
Is a pay-or-quit notice the same as an eviction?+
No. It's a notice that comes before an eviction. Only a court can order an eviction, and only a law enforcement officer can carry one out. Changing locks or removing belongings yourself is illegal in virtually every state.
Related resources
Let Ping send the reminders for you
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