Escape Eviction specializes in preventing homelessness by providing temporary financial assistance to help families remain in safe housing. If you do not currently have safe housing and are living in a shelter, vehicle, or other place not suited for residential occupation, please call the Homeless Crisis Help Line at 888-411-6802. A counselor will connect you with an agency that may be able to provide assistance.

When you receive a notice of eviction, time is extremely important. Here’s a clear breakdown:

Urgency

You typically have between 3 to 30 days to respond, depending on the type of notice and your state or county laws.

Do NOT wait—once you receive any eviction paperwork, the countdown starts immediately.

If you take action early, you have a much higher chance of stopping or delaying the eviction.

Why Acting Fast Matters

If you miss the response deadline, the landlord can go to court and get a default judgment, meaning the court will automatically rule against you, even if you had a valid defense.

Once the judgment is issued, you can be removed from your home by law enforcement in as little as 24–72 hours, depending on the area.

 What to Do Immediately

Check the exact deadline written on your notice (often called “Pay or Quit,” “Cure or Quit,” or “Notice to Vacate”).

Apply for rental assistance or emergency aid right away—many programs will pause eviction once an application is submitted.

Contact a housing lawyer or nonprofit (like Legal Aid or an eviction prevention program).

Keep all records: payment receipts, messages to the landlord, notices, etc.

If you can’t pay in full, request a payment plan in writing—many judges look favorably on tenants who show effort.

Important Reminder

The earlier you act, the more options you have—including financial aid, court mediation, or legal protection. Even waiting just a few days can make a big difference in whether your family stays housed.