Guides / Breaking a lease

How to break a lease early

Life changes. A clear, early written request to your landlord, with proof of your reason and an offer to help re-rent the unit, gives you the best chance of leaving with little or no penalty.

1. Read your lease

Look for an early termination clause, a buyout fee, notice requirements, and subletting or assignment rules. Many leases already spell out the cost of leaving early.

2. Check whether a law protects you

Active-duty servicemembers can end a residential lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act after entering service, or after receiving permanent change of station orders or deployment orders of 90 days or more, by giving written notice and a copy of the orders (50 U.S.C. § 3955; see the Justice Department’s SCRA page). Many states also have laws for survivors of domestic violence and other safety situations.

3. Gather proof

Relocation letter from your employer, military orders, or documentation of a safety concern. Proof makes a landlord more likely to agree.

4. Send a written request

State your reason, move-out date, and what you are asking for (a mutual termination, a reduced fee, or release under the law). Offer to help find a replacement tenant and leave the unit rent-ready.

5. Get the agreement in writing

If the landlord agrees, get a signed termination agreement stating the end date and any fee. Then document move-out and request your deposit (see our deposit guide).

What your letter should include

• Your name, rental address, and lease details
• Your reason (relocation, military orders, safety, other)
• Your planned move-out date
• Supporting documents, such as orders or an employer letter
• An offer to help re-rent the unit
• A request for written confirmation of the end date and any charges

Keep a copy of everything you send, and note the date you sent it.

Frequently asked questions

Can my landlord charge me rent until the lease ends?

It depends on your lease and state. Many states require landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit, which can limit what you owe. Check your state’s rules.

How much notice do servicemembers need to give under the SCRA?

For a lease with monthly rent, termination takes effect 30 days after the next rent due date following delivery of written notice and a copy of the orders.

Does breaking a lease hurt my credit?

Not by itself. It can if unpaid amounts are sent to collections, which is why a written agreement matters.