In the age of digital everything, even paying your rent has become a swipe-and-click affair. But just because an app makes life more convenient doesn’t always mean it’s the smartest—or safest—choice. That’s exactly what one Atlanta renter named Sharon wanted to know when she asked us if we know anything about, or recommend, using Zego to pay rent online.

 

The short answer? Proceed with caution. While Zego is widely used by property managers and homeowners associations across the country, it’s also generated its fair share of consumer complaints. So before you tap "pay now" on your smartphone, here’s what you need to know.

 

What Is Zego and How Does It Work?

Zego, which up until 2020 was known as PayLease, is a third-party rent payment platform used by landlords and property management companies. Think of it like the Venmo of rent—but with a few more hoops to jump through. Tenants can use it to pay rent online, set up autopay, or even make payments via credit card.

 

That all sounds great, right? But here’s where it gets tricky.

 

Zego doesn’t handle your lease. It simply processes payments on behalf of your landlord. That means if something goes wrong—say, a double charge or an issue with canceling autopay—you’re stuck trying to get help from a company that doesn’t control your lease terms and isn’t always easy to reach.

 

In fact, the Better Business Bureau received nearly two dozen complaints about Zego in a single year, with renters reporting:

  • Unauthorized recurring charges after trying to cancel autopay
  • Delayed or duplicate rent payments
  • Difficulty contacting customer support

While that number may seem small in the grand scheme, it’s a red flag for anyone considering handing over hundreds or thousands of dollars through the platform each month.

 

Read the Fine Print: Your Lease Comes First

Before signing up for any rent payment app—Zego or otherwise—check your lease. It should spell out how rent payments are to be made. If your lease says “money order only,” then paying via an app—even one approved by your landlord—could put you in breach of contract.

 

Some landlords may offer multiple payment options, including Zego, for convenience. But just because it’s available doesn’t mean it’s required. And if your landlord isn’t actually affiliated with Zego, using it could send your rent to the wrong place entirely.

 

Also worth noting: some payment apps charge a convenience fee, often between $2 and $10 per transaction—or even more if you’re using a credit card. Over a year, those small fees add up. Make sure you're not paying extra for something that could have been free with a check or money order.

 

Avoid Rent Drama: Always Get Proof of Payment

Whether you pay by app, check, or carrier pigeon, always get a receipt. Digital platforms like Zego may provide confirmation emails, but in the event of a payment dispute, that might not be enough. Save all receipts, screenshots, and emails related to your rent payments. It could save you from a future headache if your landlord ever claims you didn’t pay.

 

And while we’re at it—if you’re using Zego’s autopay feature, set a calendar reminder to review your account before each billing cycle. The last thing you want is to be double charged or to continue payments after you've moved out or switched units.

 

Final Thought: Is Zego Right for You?

Zego is not a scam—but it’s also not perfect. If your landlord or HOA officially partners with Zego, and the lease permits it, then it can be a convenient option. Just go in with your eyes open:

  • Review all fees and terms before signing up
  • Confirm the app is the approved method for your lease
  • Keep receipts and watch your bank statements

There’s nothing wrong with convenience, but when it comes to your rent—the most important payment you make each month—it pays to be cautious.

 

Looking for more consumer-smart advice? Visit TrustDALE.com for verified businesses and expert insights that help you make confident decisions.

 

And if you’ve had an issue with a rent payment platform or property manager, reach out to the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) or file a complaint through TrustDALE—we may be able to help.