Guidance: Using the CARES Act-Compliant Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
If your property is subject to the federal CARES Act, you must provide at least 30 days’ notice before initiating an eviction for nonpayment of rent. This federal rule overrides California’s standard 3-day notice if your property falls under the CARES Act’s protections.
When to Use This Form:
Use the CARES Act-Compliant Pay Rent or Quit notice if your rental property meets any of the following criteria:
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It has a federally backed mortgage (e.g., Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, or USDA).
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It receives federal housing assistance (e.g., Section 8 vouchers, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)).
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It was under mortgage forbearance during the COVID-19 emergency and still falls under related protections.
Key Requirements:
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Notice Period: You must give the tenant 30 days to pay the rent or vacate.
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How to Serve: Serve the notice using one of the legally recognized methods under California law (personal service, substituted service and mailing, or posting and mailing).
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Documentation: Retain a copy of the notice and proof of service for your records.
Not Sure If Your Property Is Covered?
You can check with your loan servicer or search your property using the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lookup tools:
Disclaimer: This resource is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about your legal obligations or how the CARES Act applies to your property, consult a qualified attorney.