Definition of Rent

Rent is the amount paid for the right to occupy a rental unit as the renter’s principal residence, even if the amount is not stated in a rental agreement.

Rent Includes Amounts Paid: Rent Does Not Include: By Medical Assistance, Minnesota Housing Support (formerly GRH), or vendor payments received from the state or county For a garage, parking space, or storage locker provided as part of a rental agreement For utilities or pets if included as part of the right to occupy the unit By the city due to relocation By the Department of Employment and Economic Security – Services for the Blind Damage deposit (unless used to pay rent) Late charges or fees Rent paid after December 31 Utilities if paid separately and not included with the right to occupy the unit Emergency rental assistance Rent paid by a federal government housing agency or federal program, such as Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program or HUD Rent paid by charitable organizations Rent paid by persons not living in the unit Charges for medical services Charges for food, laundry, or other amenities not provided as part of a rental agreement Value of free rent provided as an incentive to rent the unit a garage or separate structure not provided as part of a rental agreement Rent paid for farmland

Note: Minnesota Statute 290.0693, subdivision 1(e), defines the rent amount for adult foster care homes, intermediate care facilities, and nursing homes, which may be different from the amount actually paid.