As New Hampshire continues to attract new residents seeking a high quality of life and more housing flexibility, renters across the state will benefit from an important new tenant protection taking effect at the start of the new year. Under House Bill 309, landlords may no longer require tenants to pay rent exclusively through electronic methods such as Venmo, Zelle, online portals, or mobile payment apps.
The new law affirms that tenants must be offered at least one non-electronic option—such as a check, money order, or certified bank payment—when paying rent, signing a lease, or renewing an existing lease.
This legislative change is especially significant for older adults, lower-income renters, retirees relocating to New Hampshire, and anyone without reliable access to digital banking tools.
A Shift Toward Fairness and Accessibility in the Rental Market
For years, many New Hampshire landlords and property management companies have increasingly moved toward digital-only rent collection. While convenient for some, mandatory electronic payments have created challenges for renters who:
- Do not use mobile payment apps
- Prefer paper records for budgeting or tax purposes
- Have limited internet access
- Are concerned about cybersecurity or privacy
- Rely on fixed incomes and traditional banking
House Bill 309 addresses these concerns by ensuring every tenant—regardless of digital access—retains the right to choose how they pay rent.
Under the new law, a landlord “shall allow at least one other non-electronic form of payment” for any lease agreement, renewal, or extension. This means electronic payments may still be offered, but they can no longer be required.
Why This Matters for Newcomers Moving to New Hampshire
Many individuals moving to New Hampshire—particularly retirees and those downsizing into rental properties—value stability and simplicity in the leasing process. This law enhances consumer protection and ensures:
- No tenant is excluded for not using payment apps
- Renters maintain personal control over how they budget and track expenses
- Seniors and non-digital users are not disadvantaged
- Landlords must accommodate varying comfort levels with technology
For newcomers evaluating the state’s rental landscape, this law reflects New Hampshire’s ongoing effort to balance innovation with fairness, especially at a time when digital services continue to expand.
Impact on Landlords and Property Managers
While some landlords prefer digital rent collection for convenience, the new law requires them to:
- Offer at least one traditional payment method
- Update lease language to comply with House Bill 309
- Adjust renewal agreements to avoid mandatory digital terms
Failure to offer a non-electronic payment option could place landlords in violation of state law.
For many smaller landlords, accepting checks or money orders was already common practice, meaning compliance will involve minimal disruption. Larger property management firms, however, may need to revise standardized rental systems and automated payment platforms.
A Win for Renters’ Rights in the Granite State
House Bill 309 represents a growing national trend—ensuring modern conveniences do not come at the expense of accessibility or equity. By giving tenants a guaranteed choice in how they manage their monthly housing costs, New Hampshire is reinforcing the principles of transparency and consumer protection.
For prospective residents exploring a move to the Granite State, this policy sends a clear message: New Hampshire values fairness in housing and aims to support renters across generations and income levels.
As the new year begins, renters statewide can exercise their right to choose a payment method that best fits their budget, lifestyle, and level of comfort with digital tools—no smartphone required.