Rent Increase Letter Template
A clear, friendly letter that tells your tenant the new rent, when it starts, and why, so the increase lands as a business decision, not a surprise.
Fill in the details. The document below updates as you type.
How much notice to give
Give at least the minimum your state requires, and ideally more. Most states require one full rental period (usually 30 days) for month-to-month tenants, but California requires 90 days for increases over 10%, Washington requires 90 days for any increase, and New York requires up to 90 days depending on how long the tenant has lived there. Use the rent increase calculator to find your earliest effective date.
Tips for a smooth rent increase
- Explain briefly. One sentence on rising costs is enough. Over-explaining invites negotiation.
- Give more notice than required. 60 days instead of 30 gives tenants time to budget and makes the increase feel fair.
- Keep increases small and regular. 3–5% every year is easier to accept than 15% every three years.
- Update your reminders. Make sure your reminder emails and records show the new amount from the effective date.
Frequently asked questions
Can I deliver a rent increase notice by email?+
It depends on your state and your lease. Some states allow email if the tenant agreed to electronic notices in writing. Others require personal delivery or mail. When in doubt, mail it and email a copy.
Does the tenant have to sign the rent increase letter?+
Usually not. For a month-to-month tenancy, a properly delivered notice is enough. Asking the tenant to sign an acknowledgment is still a good way to confirm they received it.
Related resources
Let Ping send the reminders for you
Ping emails your tenants before rent is due, on the due date, and follows up automatically if it's late. Free while we're in early access.