7 Best Ways to Collect Rent from Tenants

Collecting rent is one of the most critical responsibilities for any landlord. Yet, it can often be one of the most frustrating if not done efficiently. Whether you manage one rental unit or a portfolio of properties in Oklahoma City, understanding the best way to collect rent from tenants is key to keeping your rental business running smoothly.

Did you know that, according to RealPage’s January 2025 report, the national apartment occupancy rate remained stable at 94.9%. This statistic reflects the growing adoption of digital rent collection methods and structured processes. But with so many options available today, how do you know which rent collection method is right for you?

In this article, with my 15+ years of experience in rental property management, I’ll explain the best ways to collect rent from tenants, and compare the pros and cons of various options. By the end, you’ll be able to make an informed choice and implement a process that fits your style of property management while helping you streamline your rental income over time.

How to Collect Rent from Tenants

Understanding how to collect rent from tenants starts with knowing your options. There are multiple traditional and modern rent collection methods, and each comes with benefits and drawbacks. Your choice for collecting rent depends on factors like the number of tenants you manage, your tech comfort level, and your need for automation.

Let’s go through the most effective ways to collect rent from tenants in 2025:

1. Online Rent Payment Platforms

Online rent payment platforms like Baselane, Rentec Direct, and Avail are becoming increasingly popular among modern landlords who value convenience, automation, and efficient rent collection. These platforms are designed to simplify the rental payment process by offering features such as recurring payments, automated reminders, and secure transactions. In 2025, 54% of landlords in the U.S. use online rent payment platforms as their preferred method of rent collection, according to a recent Baselane survey.

For landlords who manage multiple units or want to minimize manual tracking, these platforms offer a centralized dashboard to monitor payments, generate reports, and maintain digital records. This makes tax preparation and financial management much easier and less time-consuming, especially for landlords who prefer a paperless system.

Pros:

• Automated reminders and recurring payments
• Payment tracking and easy bookkeeping
• Secure and encrypted transactions
• Accessible 24/7 for tenants

Cons:

• Some platforms charge transaction fees
• Tenants need to create accounts and link their bank information
• Possible delays due to bank processing times

2. Direct Bank Transfers (ACH Payments)

ACH payments, also known as Automated Clearing House transfers, allow tenants to transfer rent funds directly from their bank account to the landlord’s account without using any third-party platforms. This method is especially appealing for landlords who prefer to avoid transaction fees or complex software systems. According to a 2025 Baselane survey, 64.8% of rent transactions on digital platforms in the U.S. are collected through Direct Bank Transfers (ACH payments).

By eliminating intermediaries, direct bank transfers offer a straightforward and reliable solution for rent collection. It’s a practical option for landlords who manage a small number of rental units and for tenants who are not comfortable using newer digital tools or apps. ACH transfers are generally secure, and banks offer this service at little to no cost.

Pros:

• No middleman, fewer fees
• Reliable and secure
• Suitable for tenants who are not technologically savvy

Cons:

• No automation or rent reminders unless set up separately
• The tenant must manually initiate payment each month
• Limited support or customer service if something goes wrong

3. Property Management Software

Many landlords prefer using All-in-one property management software like DoorLoop, Buildium, or AppFolio because these platforms goes beyond online rent collection. These comprehensive tools are designed to streamline the day-to-day operations of managing rental properties by integrating multiple functions into one user-friendly interface.

As 67% to 69% of landlords in the United States are now adopting property management software, landlords can use these platforms for tenant screening, lease management, maintenance tracking, and detailed financial reporting. This level of integration reduces administrative work and enhances organization, making it easier to manage multiple properties efficiently and professionally.

Pros:

• Integrates rent collection, maintenance tracking, leases, and accounting
• Professional presentation boosts tenant confidence
• Most allow partial payments, automatic late fees, and detailed reports

Cons:

• Monthly subscription fees (usually $30+ per month)
• Learning curve for new users
• It might be too complex for landlords with 1–2 properties.

4. Mobile Payment Apps

Peer-to-peer payment apps such as Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle have become increasingly popular, especially among younger tenants who are familiar with mobile technology and prefer digital payment methods. These platforms provide a fast, convenient, and user-friendly way to transfer rent directly from a tenant’s bank account or linked card to a landlord’s account.

According to a recent Baselane survey, 17% of landlords in the US are using mobile payment apps such as Venmo and Zelle for rent collection in 2025.

Most of these apps are already installed on tenants’ smartphones, making rent payments as simple as sending money to a friend. The ease of use and instant fund transfers, particularly with apps like Zelle, make them attractive options for both tenants and landlords who prefer minimal setup and quick online payments.

Pros:

• Easy to use and familiar to most tenants
• Funds often transfer instantly (especially with Zelle)
• No need for extra software

Cons:

• Risk of account freezes or disputes
• May violate the terms of service for business use
• Limited recordkeeping and no rent receipts

5. Traditional Checks

Yes, paper checks are still around, and many landlords continue to accept them, especially when dealing with tenants who are more comfortable with traditional methods. As 56% of landlords still use traditional checks as a method of rent collection in 2025, according to a recent Baselane survey. Older tenants or those less familiar with digital payment systems often prefer writing checks as it gives them a sense of control and familiarity.

For landlords, accepting checks can be a low-cost, straightforward way to collect rent without needing to rely on technology or software subscriptions. Additionally, checks create a physical paper trail, which can be useful for maintaining accurate financial records and tracking rent payments over time.

Pros:

• Low-tech and reliable
• Creates a paper trail
• No transaction fees

Cons:

• Time-consuming to deposit
• Risk of bounced checks
• Requires physical delivery or mailing

6. Cash Payments

Though this method of payment is rare today, 53% of landlords use cash payments as a method of rent collection. Landlords still accept cash, particularly in cases involving low-income housing, short-term rentals, or tenants without access to banking services. Cash payments can be convenient in specific situations where tenants need to pay immediately or do not use digital tools.

For landlords who are nearby or have an office location, accepting cash may be a practical solution, especially when paired with proper documentation and receipts. It allows for instant access to funds without waiting for bank transfers or dealing with third-party platforms.

Pros:

• Immediate funds
• Useful in emergencies
• No bank fees involved

Cons:

• No automatic recordkeeping
• High risk of loss or theft
• Disputes can occur without receipts

7. Money Orders

Money orders are a safer and more secure alternative to paying rent with cash. Since they are prepaid, tenants must provide the full rent amount upfront, which eliminates the risk of bounced payments. They are widely accessible and can be purchased at many locations, including post offices, grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies. This makes them a practical option for tenants who do not have access to a traditional bank account or prefer not to use digital payment methods.

For landlords, money orders offer a traceable payment method that ensures the rent has been paid in full before it’s received. According to recent data, the percentage of landlords adopting money orders as a rent collection method is estimated to be around 6% or less in 2025.

Pros:

• Traceable and more secure than cash
• Doesn’t require a bank account
• Useful for low-income tenants

Cons:

• Tenants must purchase in person
• Slower than digital options
• Must be manually deposited by the landlord

What is the Safest Method to Collect Rent?

When it comes to collecting rent, the safest method is one that verifies your tenant has the funds in their bank account before the payment is processed. This ensures you’re not left chasing payments or dealing with bounced transactions.

Collect Rent Electronically:

One of the most secure and efficient ways to collect rent is by using property management software such as DoorLoop, Buildium, or AppFolio. These platforms let you accept rent payments online with minimal effort. In today’s digital age, this method is not only convenient but also helps streamline your rental business.

Property management software automates the rent collection process. As payments are processed on time, they can be tracked easily, and most importantly, funds are verified before they land in your account, reducing your risk and giving you peace of mind.

What Are the Key Factors That Affect Rent Collection

Every rental setup is different, but some universal factors can affect how rent payments are collected. Here are the key factors that affect rent collection:

1. Number of Properties and Tenants

If you’re managing just one property with a couple of tenants, you have flexibility in how you collect rent. But if you’re managing multiple properties and tenants across various locations, your process needs to be more structured and ideally automated.

2. The Lease Agreement

A clear, well-drafted lease makes all the difference. It should outline when rent is due, what happens if it’s late, and the terms under which the lease can be terminated. A strong lease sets expectations and reduces confusion or disputes later on.

3. Employment Stability of Tenants

Tenants with stable income are more likely to pay rent consistently. If a tenant works in a field with frequent layoffs or job instability, the risk of missed payments may increase.

4. Screening Your Tenants

Careful tenant screening, including credit history, employment checks, and references, goes a long way in ensuring reliable rent payments. Good tenants are usually those with a strong financial background.

5. Local Laws and Regulations

Landlord-tenant laws vary depending on where your property is located. These laws affect how you can collect rent, charge late fees, or start the eviction process. So, being informed about local regulations helps you stay compliant and avoid legal trouble.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Way to Collect Rent from Tenants

The best way to collect rent from tenants depends on your rental business model, tenant preferences, and your need for automation. For Oklahoma City landlords, I recommend digital rent collection platforms or integrated property management software for ease, security, and efficiency. However, flexibility is offering a couple of payment options can reduce friction and improve on-time payments.

Remember, consistent rent collection is the backbone of a profitable rental business. By implementing a structured rent collection method, you’ll ensure smoother tenant relationships and a more stable income stream.

Need help setting up a rent collection system that works? You can contact us for property management services. We are happy to help you simplify the process.

FAQs on How to Collect Rent From Tenants