Installment Plans for Rent Divide up Payments, but Drive up Costs

Installment Plans for Rent Divide up Payments, but Drive up Costs
A for rent sign stands outside a single-family home on the market Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Denver. David Zalubowski/AP
The Associated Press
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In January, I received an email from my apartment complex saying that I could now divide my monthly rent into two payments via a product called Flex.

I would make the first payment on the first of the month, but I could choose when to make the second payment. According to the email, this would help me pay rent on time, improve my cash flow and even build my credit history. Enticing, right?