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Flex federal employee and SNAP relief program report

Supporting renters during the 2025 government shutdown
When the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history disrupted pay and benefits, rent deadlines did not move. This report examines how renters and property managers navigated that timing gap, and what the experience revealed about rent timing, financial resilience, and system stability.
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“Without Flex, I would have had to pay rent late and incur fees.”

— Flex renter during the 2025 federal shutdown

Most renters are paid weekly or biweekly. Yet rent is almost always due in full at the start of the month. This mismatch forces millions into a recurring cash flow crisis — even when their total monthly income is stable.

Our latest report, based on survey data and behavior from 845 Flex users, reveals how rigid rent schedules deepen financial stress and what happens when renters are given the option to pay in alignment with their income.

Inside the report

  • How one early-month rent deadline can trigger late fees, skipped bills, and costly borrowing
  • What renters experience when their income comes after rent is due
  • How flexible rent options help prevent eviction, boost savings, and reduce financial anxiety
  • Firsthand stories from users navigating income volatility

Key findings

88% worried about making rent on time before using Flex

48% received income before rent was due

71% now feel more confident handling unexpected costs

85% say Flex is essential to staying current on rent

Who is most impacted

62% earn hourly wages

45% have less than $500 in emergency savings

58% are solely responsible for rent

1 in 3 are severely rent-burdened

Why this matters now

Rent flexibility does not reduce housing costs or increase wages. But it helps renters align their biggest bill with how and when they’re paid. This simple shift can prevent a domino effect of missed payments, credit damage, and eviction.

For those living on the edge, timing isn't a convenience — it's the difference between falling behind and staying afloat.

Get the full report

Discover how rent timing shapes financial stress and what it will take to fix it.
Download now