You can pay your rent from any legal source of income. This includes:
- Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Public assistance
- Housing assistance like Section 8
- Child support
- Alimony
- And more
It is illegal (discrimination) if your landlord won't accept a rent payment from a legal source. You can report it to the New York State Attorney General’s office.
If your landlord won't take your rent payment for another reason, you are still protected. The landlord cannot refuse your payment and then try to evict you for nonpayment. Tell the judge. The judge should allow you to pay your rent and stay in your home.
Last Reviewed: December 19, 2025