Pay rent with a credit card? What property managers need to know
Liz Pollock
18 March 2025
Rent is one of the biggest recurring expenses most people have — and how it’s paid can shape the experience for everyone involved.
While most renters still pay by direct debit or bank transfer, some agencies are now offering credit card rent payments as part of a broader push toward flexibility and better service.
It’s about offering more choice, so renters can manage rent and bill payments in a way that suits their situation.
Today’s renters expect the same flexibility they get from other services — whether that’s streaming subscriptions or utility bills.
As the cost of living rises, more people are looking for ways to better manage their cash flow.
Here’s what property managers need to know.
More ways to pay = more flexibility for renters
For some renters, paying rent or bills with a credit card offers convenience.
It might help align with their pay cycle, create a predictable cash flow buffer, or even earn rewards on spending they’re already doing.
When renters have more ways to pay, they can choose what works best for their situation — without needing to ask for exceptions or payment extensions.
That can help reduce missed payments and improve their overall experience with your agency.
More payment options = better renter experience
Flexible rent payments aren’t just about the transaction — they shape how renters feel about your agency.
When the process is easy, transparent, and aligned with how they manage their money, they’re more likely to stay longer and recommend your team to others.
This is especially powerful in competitive markets where service — not just price — drives retention.
How credit card rent payments work
When a renter chooses to pay rent using a credit card, the transaction is typically processed through a third-party platform.
That platform collects the payment, deducts any applicable fees, and then forwards the funds to the property manager or investor.
The renter covers the processing fee, which varies depending on the platform and card type.
On the Ailo platform, credit card is just one of several payment options.
Credit card payments are processed instantly — meaning the transaction is authorised immediately, and the funds are visible to both the renter and the property manager by the end of the next full hour.
The fee is 1.5%.
Some renters use a credit card to earn rewards points, while others prefer the flexibility or simply want the payment to clear quickly.
For many, it’s about managing their finances in a way that works for them.
Why some renters use credit cards for rewards, and what to keep in mind
A small number of renters choose to pay rent with a credit card to earn frequent flyer points or cashback.
Whether or not that adds up depends entirely on their card, how they redeem rewards, and how much rent they pay.
As a property manager, your role isn’t to weigh up the value of rewards — it’s to make sure renters understand the fees involved, and feel confident choosing the payment method that suits them best.
The goal is to offer flexibility, not financial advice.
When renters know their options and the costs are clear, they’re more likely to trust the process and less likely to run into payment issues down the track.
Why flexible payment options make good business sense
Giving renters more choice in how they pay rent isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a practical way to improve consistency, reduce admin, and deliver a better experience.
When renters can choose a method that suits their financial setup — whether that’s direct debit, BPAY, or credit card — they’re more likely to pay on time and less likely to need reminders.
That means fewer arrears to manage, and less time spent chasing payments.
Real-time payment visibility also helps your team stay across what’s been paid and what hasn’t, without digging through bank feeds or emailing for confirmation.
And from a service perspective, flexible payments show renters that your agency is responsive and easy to deal with — which can lift satisfaction and retention over time.
The Ailo platform gives your renters flexibility in how they pay — and your team the tools to track everything in one place.
Credit card is just one option, but for some renters, it’s their preferred option.
Frequently asked questions
Do agencies need to offer credit card as a rent payment option?
No, but giving renters more choice in how they pay can improve the experience and reduce friction. Some renters value the ability to align rent with their billing cycle or manage payments through a method that works for them.
Credit card is just one of several flexible options you can offer to support on-time payments and renter satisfaction.
Who pays the credit card processing fee?
Typically the renter pays any transaction fees directly to the payment platform.
Does offering credit card payments reduce late rent?
Not necessarily.
Renters choose different payment methods for different reasons — whether that’s timing, convenience, or personal preference.
What matters most is offering clear options and setting up reliable systems, so payments are easy to make and expectations are clear.
What if a credit card payment fails?
Most payment platforms send instant notifications to both the renter and the property manager.
Renters can usually update their payment details quickly to avoid disruption.
Having multiple payment options available helps ensure things stay on track.
Is Ailo a credit provider?
No — Ailo is not a credit provider.
Renters choose how they’d like to pay rent within the app, and Ailo facilitates those payments securely and transparently.