In situations like this, the best place to start is with an explanation of your income loss in a direct conversation with your landlord. Preferably do this before you are late with a rent payment. Your landlord may be willing to work with you (e.g., reduced rent or subletting). If not, your state's tenant's rights law should have a section that describes the consequences of breaking a lease. For example, you may have to forfeit the first and last month's rent payment and/or security deposit given to the landlord when you first moved in. We would like your feedback on this Personal Finance Frequently Asked Question.

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