It's the first of the month, and everybody knows the rent's due. For millions of Americans, Wednesday is the first time the landlord is knocking on the door since the coronavirus outbreak turned the economy upside down.
Many of those renters are without jobs - nearly 3.3 million people in the U.S. filed for unemployment the week of March 16, about five times the previous high in 1982.
Most state and local governments are putting evictions on pause as states prepare to pay unemployment and the federal government prepares to send stimulus checks. So for most, April's knock won't come with a notice to get out.
But a roof over the head is one of the most basic needs in life. Without money for rent, how can the other bills get paid?
May she help us. May the virgin put her love over us and help us." - Regina Garcia Cano, Washington
"I do wine, and nobody wants to hear about wine right now," she said. "They just want to chug it." - Travis Loller, Nashville
But the rent comes due again in 30 days. Can she afford a smaller apartment in her building if one's available? Should she move in with friends if they'll let her?
"We can't be evicted right now, but eventually they're going to want their money."
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content