Setting up Auto-Payments

Setting up your rent payments doesn't have to be a monthly chore. By using the RentCafe Resident Portal, you can choose between making individual manual payments or setting up Auto-Pay to handle everything for you.
Here is a quick guide to getting your payments automated:

1. Log In and Add a Payment Method
Before you can activate Auto-Pay, you need to tell the system where the money is coming from.

• Log In: Head to the RentCafe Portal and sign in with your credentials.
• Go to Payment Accounts: Navigate to the Payments tab and select Payment Accounts.
• Add Your Method: Click Add Bank Account (ACH) or Add Credit Card.
  • Note: Using a bank account is often fee-free, while credit card payments typically include a convenience fee (often around 3%).
  • Verify (If using a Bank Account): Some portals require a "penny deposit" verification where you'll need to enter the small amount deposited into your account to confirm it's yours.

2. Activate Auto-Pay
Once your payment method is saved, you can turn on the automation. [1]

• Go to Auto-Pay Setup: Look for the Auto-pay Setup tab or button within the Payments menu.
• Select Your Preferences:
  • Account: Choose the bank account or card you just added.
  • Payment Amount: You can choose to pay the "Full Outstanding Balance" or a specific "Fixed Amount".
  • Schedule: Set the Start Date, End Date (usually your lease end date), and the Day of the Month you want the payment to pull.
• Confirm: Review the terms, check the confirmation box, and hit Set Up Auto-Pay.

Quick Tips for Success

• Timing: If you set up Auto-Pay after the 1st of the month for that same month, it might not kick in until the next billing cycle. Be sure to make a one-time payment for the current month if needed.
• Lease Renewals: Remember to update your Auto-Pay amount if your rent changes when you renew your lease.
• App Access: You can also manage all of this on the go by downloading the RentCafe Resident App.
  Would you like a template reminder email to send to your roommates about setting up their portions of the rent?