Rental Late Fee Clarification

Summary

A late fee in Michigan must be reasonable. For a rent of $899, 20% would be $179.80, which is higher than $20. If your court papers show an incorrect rent amount, you can request a correction by submitting a motion to amend the complaint with evidence of your actual rent payment. Consulting a local attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

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Have some questions about a rental court case and my lease
Hello ****, I'd be glad to help you with your rental court case and lease issues. Could you please let me know the specific questions you have and your current location?
My lease agreement says for my late fee *$ or *% of the monthly rental amount whichever is greater what does that me
Hi ****, this means if your rent is late, you'll pay either a $* fee or *% of your monthly rent, whichever amount is higher. For instance, if your rent is $*, *% would be $*, so you'd pay that as it's higher than $*. Your location can affect these terms, may I know where you are based?
Flushing, Mi
Hello ****, in Michigan:
- A late fee must be reasonable.
- Landlords cannot charge more than what's reasonable for late fees.
- The specific amount or percentage should be outlined in your lease agreement.
In your case, you'd pay $* or *% of your rent, whichever is greater, as a late fee.
Okay so I pay * plus an additional *$ for tax and trash what would I pay for my late fee?
Hi ****, based on your rent of $*, *% would be $*.*. Since $*.* is greater than $*, your late fee would be $*.* according to the terms of your lease. This calculation does not include the additional $* for tax and trash.
Is that a reasonable late fee?
In Michigan, a late fee must be "reasonable". However, what is considered "reasonable" can vary. Generally, a late fee of *% might be considered high. For a more precise review, you may want to consult a local attorney or tenants rights organization.
Also on my court papers I received the landlord put I pay * a month but I was told I pay * in total what can I do about that?
Hi ****, you can request a correction of the court papers by submitting a motion to amend the complaint. Ensure to bring evidence of your actual rent payment. Consulting a local attorney might help to ensure your rights are protected.