Legal and tenant help in Montana
The short answer
Got eviction papers in Montana? You have only 5 business days after you are served to file a written answer with the Clerk of Court. For unpaid rent, you have 3 days after the landlord's notice to pay.
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What Montana Law Help says
- For unpaid rent, you have 3 days after getting the landlord's notice to pay before the rental agreement ends.
- After you are served eviction papers, you have only 5 business days to file a written answer with the Clerk of Court. Missing it can cost you the right to defend yourself.
- The hearing is usually within 10 business days after you file your answer.
- Behind on rent? Contact 211. For text help, text START to 406 324 7880.
Official pages: montanalawhelp.org/resource/what-you-should-know-about-evictions-montana, courts.mt.gov/selfhelp
Montana Legal Services
Montana Legal Services Association gives no cost civil legal help to people who qualify.
Official page: mtlsa.org
Fair housing
The Montana Human Rights Bureau takes discrimination complaints: 1 800 542 0807. You can also file with HUD.
Official pages: erd.dli.mt.gov/human-rights, montanaworks.gov, hud.gov/fairhousing
More help in Montana
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.