Make Rent Payments Free and Accessible for Low-Income Tenants

For many low-income tenants, paying rent is already a major monthly challenge. Unfortunately, additional obstacles—such as required money order payments—make the process even more difficult. AppFolio, a widely used property management software platform, has faced criticism because some tenants feel these payment requirements create financial disadvantages.

In this blog, we’ll explore why AppFolio should waive payment fees for low-income renters and discuss more accessible solutions that can make rent payments easier, cheaper, and more equitable for all tenants.

Why Money Order Payments Hurt Low-Income Tenants

Many landlords and property managers prefer money orders because they are secure, traceable, and reduce the risk of bounced payments. However, for low-income tenants, money orders come with several hidden costs:

1. Additional Fees Add Financial Pressure

Money orders typically cost $1–$5 each, which may seem small—but for tenants living paycheck to paycheck, these fees add up every month. Over a year, tenants can spend $20–$60+ just to pay rent.

2. Inconvenient and Time-Consuming

Obtaining a money order often requires visiting a:

• Bank

• Post office

• Convenience store

These errands usually need to be done during business hours, forcing tenants to take time off work or make long trips using public transportation.

3. Limited Accessibility

Tenants with restricted mobility, limited transportation, or irregular work hours may struggle to purchase a money order at all—making on-time rent payments even more difficult.

Does AppFolio Require Money Orders?

AppFolio itself does not mandate that tenants pay rent using money orders. However, landlords and property managers using AppFolio can choose to require them.

This flexibility, while useful for property managers, can unintentionally create hardships for low-income tenants—especially when safer digital payment options exist.

Why AppFolio Should Waive Fees for Low-Income Renters

Waiving payment fees for qualified low-income tenants would:

• Reduce financial stress

• Support timely rent payments

• Encourage the use of digital, traceable payments

• Promote fairness and accessibility in housing

Making rent payment fees optional or waived for vulnerable renters aligns with modern housing equity practices and supports long-term tenant stability.

More Accessible Rent Payment Alternatives

To create a more inclusive payment system, property managers and software providers like AppFolio can offer:

✔ Free ACH Bank Transfers

A secure, low-cost digital payment method.

✔ Debit Card Payments With Reduced or Removed Fees

A more affordable option than credit cards or money orders.

✔ Cash Payment Networks

Allow tenants to pay at retail locations like Walmart, CVS, or 7-Eleven without high fees.

✔ Automatic Payment Reminders

Helps tenants stay on schedule without extra effort.

By modernizing rent payment options, property managers can support both financial accessibility and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Money orders may feel simple and secure for landlords, but they place unnecessary burdens on low-income families. AppFolio has the opportunity to lead the industry by waiving fees for low-income renters and promoting accessible digital payments.

Making rent payments easier isn't just good for tenants—it's good for property managers, communities, and long-term housing stability.