Cash Payment Receipts for Tenants in Poland

Paying rent in cash can be convenient, but for a tenant and renter in Poland it is important to have clear proof of payment. This article explains which documents you should obtain when handing over cash, how to correctly prepare a receipt and what data protection rights a tenant has. You will also learn when a receipt can help in a dispute with the landlord and how to secure evidence so it is useful in court. The advice is practical and tailored to tenants in Poland, without legal jargon, with steps to take if a problem arises. You will also learn what information should be on a receipt and how to protect your personal data under GDPR.

Documents when paying in cash

When paying in cash, ask for a written receipt — it is the simplest proof of payment. The receipt should be legible and include basic details, and in case of doubt refer to tenant rights under the Act on the Protection of Tenants' Rights^[1].

What a receipt should include

• the amount and date of payment
• the exact purpose (rent, utilities, deposit)
• the parties' details (tenant and landlord name)
• the signature of the person receiving the cash

Data protection (GDPR)

When providing data on a receipt, remember to protect your personal data. The landlord should not request unnecessary information or share it with third parties.

How to use a receipt in a dispute

If a conflict with the landlord arises, receipts are important evidence. Prepare a payment chronology and gather all receipts and transfer confirmations, and if necessary you can take the case to the District Court (Civil Division)^[2].

• keep originals and make copies
• document every payment with amount and date
• prepare a short note describing the payment circumstances

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the landlord have to provide a receipt when paying in cash?

In practice it is worth requesting a receipt; the absence of a receipt does not prevent enforcing rights but makes the case more difficult.

What to do if the landlord refuses to issue a receipt?

Note the date, amount and any witnesses, take a photo of the cash transfer or ask for a bank transfer and keep the confirmation.

Can a receipt contain my personal data?

Yes, but it should be limited to necessary information and processed in accordance with data protection rules.

How to

1. Ask for a written receipt for every larger payment.
2. Check that the receipt includes amount, date, purpose and signature.
3. Make copies and scan documents and send them to your email.
4. If necessary, prepare a court letter with the collected evidence.

Key takeaways

• A cash receipt is a primary proof for a tenant.
• Document all payments and keep digital copies.
• Protect your personal data and avoid providing unnecessary information.

Help and support

• Contact the district court (Civil Division) — information and deadlines
• Text of the Act on the Protection of Tenants' Rights — ISAP
• General citizen information about tenants' rights — gov.pl

1. [1] Act of 21 June 2001 on the Protection of Tenants' Rights — ISAP
2. [2] Information about courts (Ministry of Justice)