Renting & utilities

• Getting your security deposit back

  A security deposit is your money on hold. Most states have rules about how, when, and why a landlord can keep some or all of it.

• Setting up utilities and keeping them on

  Electricity, gas, water, and internet are separate accounts with separate rules. Most surprises come from deposits, transfer timing, and shutoff notices.

• What is a lease?

  The agreement that defines the basic deal between a tenant and a landlord.

• When rent can be raised

  Whether and when a landlord can raise the rent depends on your lease type, your state, and sometimes your city.