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Behind on rent or got an eviction notice: what to do

What an eviction notice means, your rights as a tenant, rental help, and why you must never miss the court date.

Quick answer

An eviction notice is not an eviction. Read the deadline and amount, and in most states your landlord must win in court before you can be removed; lockouts are usually illegal. If you get court papers, respond and show up. Call 211 for rental assistance, get free legal aid, and put any payment plan in writing.

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Your checklist

  • Read the notice and its deadline
  • Don’t move out just because of a notice
  • Respond to court papers and go to court
  • Call 211 for rental help
  • Get free legal aid
  • Put payment plans in writing

Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.

A notice is not an eviction

Most evictions start with a written notice, like “pay or quit.” It gives a deadline, sometimes only a few days. Read it carefully.

Your landlord needs a court order

In most states, a landlord must file in court and win before you can be removed. Changing the locks, removing your things or shutting off utilities to force you out is usually illegal.

If you get court papers

Respond by the deadline and go to every hearing. If you don’t, the landlord can win automatically.

Get help

  • Call 211 or your city or county about emergency rental assistance.
  • Legal aid groups and court self-help centers help tenants for free.
  • Talk to them before agreeing to anything or paying part of the rent, because in some states that can affect your case.

After a judgment

A sheriff or marshal carries out the order, usually after giving notice. Ask the court about time to move or to pay what’s owed.

Official sources, and where to look

To find your local office, search for:

  • [your county] emergency rental assistance
  • [your county] tenant legal aid

Pick sites that end in .gov. Official forms are almost always free.

Common questions

How long does an eviction take?

It depends on your state and the court’s schedule: from a few weeks to a few months. Responding on time gives you the most options. More ›

Will an eviction show up on my record?

Eviction court cases can show up on tenant screening reports. Settling early or getting a case dismissed or sealed, where allowed, can help. More ›

Can my landlord evict me without going to court?

In most states, no. The landlord has to file an eviction case and win. Lockouts, removing your things or shutting off utilities to force you out are usually illegal. More ›

How many days do I have after an eviction notice?

It depends on the type of notice and your state. Some notices give 3 to 5 days to pay; others give 30 days or more. The deadline is printed on the notice. More ›

What happens if I don’t go to my eviction court date?

The landlord can usually win automatically (a default judgment), and an order to remove you may follow quickly. Always go, or contact the court before the date. More ›

Can I get help paying back rent?

Many cities, counties and charities offer emergency rental assistance. Call 211 to find programs near you. More ›

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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.