Cash Payments and Receipts for Tenants in Poland

As a tenant in Poland you often face the need to pay in cash — rent, deposits or small repairs. This article explains what evidence to collect, when to ask for written confirmation and which deadlines and regulations matter in disputes with the landlord. I will discuss practical steps: payment confirmation, lease clauses, documenting costs and how to act if the owner refuses to issue a receipt. The advice is simple, useful and tailored to a tenant's situation, whether you live in a private or municipal flat. With clear rules you can better protect your rights and avoid misunderstandings. The article includes examples of simple receipts, guidance on when to bring a case to court or a municipal office, and how to keep evidence for the time needed to pursue claims.

What to know about cash payments

Cash payment is permitted but carries the risk of lacking proof. As a tenant you should seek confirmation for every payment, especially rent and reimbursements for repairs. In disputes these documents help prove the date and amount of payment and protect against unfounded claims by the owner. If the contract requires transfers, lack of proof may complicate enforcing rights.

Main types of evidence

• Signed receipt from the landlord with date and amount.
• Receipt or invoice from the person performing repairs when you pay for repairs.
• Notes with dates and times of handing over cash and the name of the recipient.
• Photos of documents, notes and any damage showing the scope of repairs.

If the owner refuses a receipt

If the owner refuses to issue a receipt, ask for a short note indicating who received the money and why; you can also propose an alternative, e.g. confirmation by SMS or email. Not agreeing to any confirmation makes your position harder, so document the moment of handing over cash and witnesses.

How to ask for a receipt

• Ask for a signed receipt containing the date, amount and purpose of the payment.
• Photograph the receipt and keep it with the lease agreement.
• If the landlord offers SMS or email confirmation, keep a copy of the message.
• Record payment dates and deadlines to demonstrate payment regularity.

Evidence and procedural deadlines

If the matter goes to the district court (civil division), payment evidence will be crucial. Keep documents for the entire tenancy and for the time required to pursue claims. Know the relevant limitation periods and consult the option of pursuing claims with a lawyer or municipal tenant office^[1]. In some cases it may be helpful to file a claim for payment or for confirmation that the tenant fulfilled an obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I demand a receipt for every cash payment?

Yes, as a tenant you have the right to request confirmation of money received from the landlord; a receipt makes it easier to pursue claims in case of dispute.

How long should I keep receipts and payment evidence?

Keep documents for the entire lease period and at least for the statute of limitations period, and consult an office or lawyer if unsure.

What if the owner claims they did not receive the money?

Present the collected evidence: receipts, photos, messages; if that is insufficient, consider bringing the matter to the district court.

How to (step-by-step)

1. Ask for a signed receipt that includes date, amount and purpose of payment.
2. Archive evidence: photograph the receipt and save confirmation messages.
3. If the owner disputes payment, file documents with the district court or consult a lawyer.
4. Contact a municipal office or tenant support organization if you need help enforcing your rights.

Help and Support / Resources

• ISAP: Act text and legislation
• GOV.PL: Tenant information and forms
• Ministry of Justice: practical guidance

1. [1] Ustawa z 21 czerwca 2001 r. o ochronie praw lokatorów
2. [2] Informacje dla lokatorów i wzory dokumentów na GOV.PL