So, here's the long and short of it. I signed up for another year with my current apartment. One of the reasons I stayed with them, and that I discussed with them, is that they allow me to pay with paper check. This is a big deal for me; I was a victim of identity theft, and am paranoid about paying things online.

They require 60 day notice to move out; my lease expires Jan 1, 2011. Last week, well after the 60 day cutoff mark, they send out a mass letter to every person that they will no longer be accepting checks after the first of the year. My new lease isn't set to start until Jan 2; if the complex refuses to work with me on the paper check issue, can I give them the 60 day notice (say, on Wednesday, Dec. 15th), pay one month's worth of month-to-month rent, and move somewhere else without it showing up on my credit report or anything?

Well first I am not sure they can refuse to take payment at the office ( but that is another issue)

What does your lease say about type of payment ?
Did you discuss paying with check prior to renewal.

The lease is silent about payment method.

I've paid entirely with checks, and when I went to renew, I specifically asked them if my checks would still be accepted. (My exact words were, "I'm still going to be able to pay through personal checks, right?" to which the office worker replied "Yes, of course.")

I know Texas is a rough place for tenants, and I really don't want to mess up my credit with a broken lease. This issue is very important to me though, so I don't know what to do.