task assignment for tenant rental & utility assistance

• Donate Goods

Donate Clothing, Furniture & Household Items

• What We Do Overview
• Holiday Giving
• Rent, Mortgage and Utility Assistance
• Food Pantries
• Homeless Shelters
• Disaster Relief
• Rehabilitation
• Spiritual Healing
• Job Training
• Solutions to Human Trafficking
• Veterans Services
• Services for the Aging
• Grassroots Services
• Help for Domestic Abuse
• Life Skills to Escape Poverty
• Summer Camps
• After-School Programs
• LGBTQ+ Support
• About Us Overview
• Employment Opportunities
• Commitment to Diversity
• Ways to Give Overview
• Donate Money
• Ways to Give
• Vehicle Donation
• Become a Fundraiser
• Stocks, Miles, Partnerships & More...
• Love Beyond
• 2023 Annual Report

Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good

Please enter your name, email and zip code below to sign up!

Rent, Mortgage, and Utility Assistance

We help local families keep roofs over their heads during hard times.

The Salvation Army has been helping people in need for more than 150 years. We have seen many changes since then, but one thing remains constant: God calls us to serve those who are most vulnerable. Today, The Salvation Army provides emergency services, including food, clothing, shelter, a safe space, and a hopeful word to everyone who needs it — regardless of religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, or political affiliation.

For many, making ends meet is a daily challenge, forcing people to choose between things like heating their homes and putting food on the table. We understand the stress these situations put on families and are here to help.

With utility assistance, our goal is to provide resources that will help families stay in their homes.

Find help with your utilities and rent near you

Salvation Army programs and services vary with local needs. For information on specific programs and locations, contact your local Salvation Army by using the location search.

Find help if you're struggling to pay your bills

The Salvation Army understands the impact of unexpected life changes. Maybe you lost your job. Maybe you're a senior living on a fixed income. Maybe you're living with a long-term disability. If so, we are here for you.

Throughout the country, The Salvation Army's emergency assistance programs are helping families pay their bills so they can keep the power and water on, fill prescriptions, and access transportation when necessary.

Whether you own a home, are paying off a mortgage, or are currently renting, assistance is available to help reduce the financial and emotional burdens associated with housing utilities.

The Salvation Army connects people with the resources they need to help their families stay afloat.

As we saw in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people across the country were forced into making a choice between things like keeping a roof over their heads and putting food on their familiy's tables. We believe no one should have to make a decision like that, so we provide rent and mortgage relief to those who need it.

For instance,  The Salvation Army of North & Central Illinois  connects residents with local housing resources for rent and mortgage assistance.

Additionally, Relief Benefits is a national free, comprehensive tool that helps find relief for those that are normally able to make ends meet but need help when unexpected situations arise.

We have always fought to ensure that no one goes without heat in the coldest winters, air conditioning in the brutal summers, or fresh water to drink and bathe in.

In addition to a popular bill payment program , Pacific Power partners with Oregon Energy Fund , a nonprofit agency, to offer energy assistance to Oregon residents providing temporary utility assistance for eligible families and individuals when heating or electric service has been or will be shut off.

As health care prices continue to rise, many large pharmaceutical companies are providing access to medication. You may qualify for free medicines if you do not have health insurance, do not have enough health insurance to cover your medicines, or meet certain criteria. 

"We did not find any national transportation assistance programs..."

Assistance Across the Country

Lubbock, Texas

Through the Tokens of Hope Rapid Rehousing program, Joseph quickly began working on clearing up past eviction costs and working to secure new affordable housing.

Sitka, Alaska

Mr. Johnson had fallen on some hard times and reached out to The Salvation Army as he was very concerned about his utilities getting shut off and facing food insecurity.

Orange County, Indiana

In Mardgo’s community and others across Indiana, a growing number of seniors living on fixed incomes are facing hardship as prices for groceries, gas, and utilities continue to rise.

Love Beyond Bills

By donating to support rent and utility assistance programs, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families in your community, ensuring they have a stable and secure place to call home.

• iPropertyManagement

Rent Relief Programs

Last Updated: November 30, 2023 by Cameron Smith

Find out what rental relief assistance is available through nationwide programs as well as state and local programs.

National Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of rental assistance programs that are available on a national level.

Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)

The ERA is a program that was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to help support families who need financial assistance with their rental housing costs. The funds can be used for:

• Trash removal
• reasonable late fees
• Moving expenses
• Other related rental fees for families required to move

Requirements for the ERA include:

• Valid agreement for paying rent on your apartment, house, mobile home, or other type of housing.
• Qualified for unemployment, or should qualify
• Lost income
• Owed large expenses OR
• Had other financial hardships
• Household income is below a certain thresholds, established by each local government
• At least one member of your household is experiencing instability, which means they are at risk of becoming homeless or would have trouble finding a place to live.

The ERA’s funds are distributed by state and local governments. You must apply through a local program, which can be found in the list of state and local programs below. Click here for more information about the ERA.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The LIHEAP assists families with their energy costs, including:

• Home energy bills
• Energy crises
• Weatherization
• Minor energy-related home repairs.

Requirements for the LIHEAP include:

• Must require financial assistance with home energy costs
• A person or a family member who participates in other benefit programs, such as SNAP, SSI, and TANF, may be automatically eligible
• Proof of identification
• Proof of address
• Recent utility bill
• Copy of Social Security cards for all household members

The LIHEAP’s funds are distributed by state and local governments. You must apply through a local program, which can be found in the list of state and local programs below. Click here for more information about the LIHEAP.

Multifamily Housing Rental Assistance

This program provides payments to owners of USDA-financed rural rental housing or farm labor housing projects on behalf of low-income tenants unable to pay their full rent.

Requirements include:

• Must be a project owner as part of the rural rental housing or farm labor housing new construction financing applications
• Projects must be established on a nonprofit or limited-profit basis

In order to apply, multifamily housing owners must contact a regional director for the program.

Lifeline Support

The Lifeline Support Center provides up to $9.25 off the cost of phone, internet, or bundled services.

• Income is 135% or less of than the federal poverty guidelines.
• You or someone in your household participates in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA, or Veteran’s Pension and Survivor’s Benefit

To apply, click here .

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

The SSVF is a program to help veterans remain in their current homes, find more suitable housing, or help find housing if you are experiencing homelessness.

• Be a veteran, or living in a family headed by a veteran or their spouse
• Have a very low income
• Be imminently at risk of becoming homeless

To apply, call the National Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET to find a local SSVF provider and make an appointment.

Non-Elderly Disabled (NED) Voucher

NED vouchers are for people under the age of 62 with a disability to help find and pay for rental housing.

• Be the head, spouse, or co-head of a family
• Be under the age of 62
• Have a disability
• Meet other NED eligibility requirements based on your income and where you live.

To apply, contact your local public housing agency to learn about local eligibility requirements .

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

Housing choice vouchers allow you to find your own private housing and cover part or all of the rent.

• Vouchers are for families with low incomes, seniors, and people with disabilities
• Eligibility is determined by annual gross income and family size, and is dependent on where you live.

To apply, contact your local public housing agency to learn about local eligibility requirements.

Rent Relief Programs by State

The following is a list of relief programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Alabama Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Alabama rental relief programs:

Eligibility requirements for the City of Huntsville COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Currently experiencing a financial hardship
• Income at or below 50% of area median income
• Existing signed lease contract
• Currently receiving some form of income
• Valid photo ID
• Working email address

Jefferson County

Eligibility requirements for the Jefferson County Alabama Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income
• Be at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Qualified for unemployment benefits
• Experienced a reduction in household income
• Incurred significant costs
• Document a financial hardship

Mobile County

Eligibility  requirements for the Mobile County Treasury Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance:

• Applicant has a household income at or below 80% of the area median income
• Providing an eviction notice or past due utility or rent notice
• Having housing costs equal to or in excess of 50% of income
• Other compelling evidence that demonstrates risk
• Qualify for unemployment
• Have experienced a reduction in household income
• Experienced other financial hardship

Eligibility requirements for the the Birmingham Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Have an eviction notice or past due utility bill
• Experienced direct or indirect negative economic impact due to COVID-19 or other financial hardship

Baldwin, Escambia, Clarke, Monroe, Conecuh, Marengo and Wilcox Counties

Eligibility requirements for the LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program:

• Proof of household income
• Household’s Social Security cards
• Most recent utility bill

Autauga, Chilton, Elmore and Shelby Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Assistance for LIHEAP Middle Alabama:

• Provide proof of income for all current household members for the month prior to application. If a household member claims zero income that cannot be verified by a governmental agency, the Declaration of Household Income form must be completed
• Furnish Social Security cards for all household members and photo ID for person applying
• Furnish a recent heating/cooling bill which includes your customer account number. Bill must be in the name of the head of household or spouse

Cullman, Morgan, Lawrence, Marion, and Winston Counties

• Copy of photo ID for head of household or spouse (person signing application)
• Copy of income documentation for all household members for the entire prior calendar month
• Current utility bill or propane quote (winter only), and/or current water bill with account number(s)
• Copy of lease/utility allowance

Macon County

Eligibility requirements for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Must be facing eviction

Blount, Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, Marshall, St. Clair, and Jefferson Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Assistance for LIHEAP Northeast Alabama:

• Photo ID of applicant
• Social Security cards for all members of the household
• Proof of income for the previous month for all adults over the age of 18 (if the applicant had no income source for the previous month, they will need to complete a Declaration of Household Income form)
• Utility bill in the applicant’s name

Franklin, Colbert and Lauderdale Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Assistance for LIHEAP Northwest Alabama:

• Applicant earn 150% or less of the poverty line
• Low income household

Montgomery County

Eligibility requirements for the Montgomery Community LIHEAP:

• Provide information so your local agency can determine if you are eligible for assistance
• Provide proof of income for all current household members for the month prior to application. If a household member claims $0 income that cannot be verified by a governmental agency, the Declaration of Household Income form must be completed
• Furnish Social Security cards for all household members and photo ID for the person applying
• Furnish a recent heating/ cooling bill which includes your customer account number. Bill must be in the name of the head of household or spouse

Eligibility requirements for the Mobile Community Action Announces Cooling Program:

• Current picture identification
• Social Security cards for all household members (or current proof from Social Security showing that you have applied for replacement card)
• Birth certificates for children ages five and under and any other new household members
• Current income (previous month’s check stubs, 2023 Social Security income, Food Stamp Notice of Action letter, etc.) for all household members
• Current bills (power, approved state water vendor, sewer, septic tank cleaning/pumping invoice
• Current qualifying medications (last 6-month printout from the pharmacy) for crisis assistance (if applicable)

Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program:

• At least one household member have a documented health problem and require a controlled environment

Huntsville, Madison and Limestone Counties

Eligibility requirements for LIHEAP Huntsville:

• Monthly income documentation
• Current picture ID
• Your current utility bill
• Crisis/Deposit – Target Sector Only

Eligibility requirements for the LIHEAP Macon:

• Applicant’s household income must not exceed 150% of the federally established poverty level

Alaska Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Alaska rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Alaska Housing Relief Program:

• A copy of your government-issued ID
• Supporting income documents
• A statement showing any past-due rent and a copy of your current lease agreement
• Copies of past-due utility bills (if you requested utility relief)

Eligibility requirements for the Alaska Heating Assistance Program:

• Income at or below 150% of the federal poverty income guidelines, who have a minimum of $200 in out-of-pocket heating costs per year
• Copies of most recent heat and electricity bill(s)

Brevig Mission, Little Diomede, Elim, Gambell, Golovin, King Island, Koyuk, Mary’s Igloo, Savoonga, Shaktoolik, Shishmaref, Solomon, Stebbins, St. Michael, Teller, Unalakleet, Wales and White Mountain Counties

Eligibility requirements for the  Bering Straits Regional Housing Authority Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Qualifies for or is currently receiving unemployment benefits
• Has been or is currently unemployed
• Has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Has incurred significant costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Has directly or indirectly experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Arizona Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Arizona rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Arizona Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• The renter’s household income is less than or equal to 80% of the Area Median Income 
• The renter or member of the renter’s household has been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
• Eviction notice
• Utility shutoff notice
• Past due rent notice
• Past due utility notice
• Any other evidence of unsafe or unhealthy living conditions or housing instability

Eligibility requirements for the Arizona LIHEAP:

• Copy of current utility bill
• Disconnection notice
• Proof of income
• Failure to provide the required documentation may delay eligibility determination

Maricopa County

Eligibility requirements for the Crisis Assistance Programs:

• A member of the household has had a financial hardship or has qualified for unemployment
• There is a demonstrated risk of housing instability or potential for homelessness
• The gross household income cannot exceed 80% of the area median income based on household size
• Applicants who are at or below 50% of the area median income, have been unemployed for the previous 90 days, have received a notice to appear in court for eviction for non-payment of rent, or are experiencing homelessness will automatically be prioritized for service

Eligibility requirements for the Maricopa County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Household lives in Maricopa County, but not in the cities of Glendale, Mesa, and Phoenix
• Since March 13 2020, a household member has qualified for Unemployment Insurance from the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) or the household is experiencing financial hardship
• Household demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Household is living at or below 80% of the area median income

Eligibility requirements for the Phoenix City Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program:

• Income at or below 80% of Area ​​​Median Income or $74,800 for a family of 4
• Qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in income or other financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Demonstrating risk of homelessness or housing instability
• Rent and utility bills incurred after March 13, 2020​

Tucson and Pima Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Tucson and Pima County Eviction Prevention/Emergency Rent and Utility Relief Program:

• Applicant’s state-issued picture ID
• Applicant’s proof of U.S. Citizenship
• Permanent legal residence
• Social Security cards for all household members
• Birth certificates for children 17 and under
• Proof of all household income for the past 30 days
• Current utility bills (electric, gas, water)

Arkansas Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Arkansas rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Arkansas Household Water Assistance Program:

• Social Security card all household members age 18 or older
• Social Security numbers
• Copies of your most recent utility bills
• Proof of residency

Eligibility requirements for the Arkansas Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program:

• Legal Photo ID
• Social Security cards and birth dates for all household members
• Proof of income received for the previous month for all household members
• If job has been lost in the previous two months, a statement from employer is required

Eligibility requirements for the ARVAC LIHWAP Closure:

• Proof of identity
• Social Security card
• Copies of most recent water utility bills
• Lease agreement (if water is included in your rent)

Eligibility requirements for the Arkansas Emergency Food Assistance Program:

• Both electric bill and gas/propane bill

Eligibility requirements for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):

• Copies of your current electric, gas, or propane bill, and any shut-off notices
• Social Security numbers for all household members, regardless of age
• ​Social Security cards required for applicants 18+ years of age
• Numbers required for all other individuals in the household
• Proof of identification for adult household members.
• Proof of income for all household members 18 years or older for the previous month
• Proof of unemployment for all household members 18 years of older.
• Proof of Social Security, Retirement, Pensions, Workman’s Comp, or Disability
• Proof of Child Support

Eligibility requirements for the Arkansas LIHEAP:

• Proof of all income for all household members for the previous month
• Copy of the upper portion of electric bill and propane/gas bill
• If your household was a zero-income household for the previous month, other documentation will be required

Eligibility requirements for the Our Healthy Communities Energy Assistance Program:

• Utility bills
• ID and Social Security cards

Eligibility requirements for the ARVAC Summer LIHEAP:

• Social Security information
• Lease agreement

Eligibility requirements for the Central Arkansas LIHEAP:

• Based on both 60% of state median income and 150% of federal poverty guidelines

Eligibility requirements for the the LIHEAP Program:

• Social Security card (household members age 18 or older)
• Social Security numbers (household minors)
• Proof of residency (current utility bills provide proof)

Eligibility requirements for the Li-Heap Summer Program:

• Be responsible for payment of home energy bill
• Must be U.S. citizens or legal resident non-citizens
• Meet countable resource standard
• Meet federal income guidelines

Eligibility requirements for the Arkansas Weatherization LIHEAP:

Clay, Randolph and Lawrence Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Black River Area Development LIHEAP:

• Must meet eligibility requirements for home energy costs
• Must have a monthly household (before taxes)
• Proof of income for yourself and for anyone 18 or older
• Proof of Social Security, SSI, Retirement, and/or VA benefits, if received
• Proof of unemployment benefits if have not been working for 6 months or longer

Washington County

Eligibility requirements for the Economic Opportunity Agency of Washington County LIHEAP:

• Legal photo ID
• If you have lost your job within the previous two months, we will need a statement from your employer

Arkansas, Cleveland, Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln Counties

Eligibility requirements for the The LIHEAP Summer Program:

• Proof of income for yourself
• Proof of unemployment benefits
• Most recent utility bill(s)
• Picture ID and social security cards

Eligibility requirements for the Central Delta Community Action Agency:

• Below 125% of the federal poverty line as determined by the federal OMB

Eligibility requirements for the Crawford-Sebastian Community Development Council Li-Heap:

• Responsible for payment of home energy bill
• Members of the household must be U.S. citizens or legal resident non-citizens
• Meet countable resource standard including cash, checking or savings accounts, certificates of deposits, cryptocurrency, stocks, or bonds
• Meet Federal Income Guidelines that vary according to household size
• Copies of both your electric bill and gas bill
• Proof on income for the previous month

California Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of California rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Fresno Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• One or more individuals within the household experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to COVID-19 or demonstrate a risk of homelessness or housing instability or household is a low-income family
• Tenant must document that they are past-due on payments for rent and/or utilities, or need help with future rental assistance
• Tenant/household is income-eligible at no more than 80% of area median income or participate in a low-income verified local, state or federal program (ex. Medi-Cal, SNAP, WIC, etc.)
• Income-eligible applicants may qualify regardless of immigration status and will not be required to show proof of citizenship

Fresno County

Eligibility requirements for the Fresno County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Tenants residing in Fresno County Islands within City of Fresno limits are eligible
• Tenants will not asked about their citizenship nor will they be required to show proof of citizenship
• Inability to pay rent must be related to COVID-19 hardship

Marin County

Eligibility requirements for the North Marin Community Services Emergency Rental & Financial Assistance :

• Be a resident of Novato
• One-time financial support to those who are at risk of losing their stable housing or who need help with securing a deposit for housing.
• To find out how you may be elgible for Rental Assistance, contact their Administrative Coordinator at   415-897-4147  or  [email protected] .

Sacramento County

Eligibility requirements for the Sacramento Emergency Rental Assistance (SERA) Program:

• Applicants must currently rent their home anywhere in the County of Sacramento.
• 1 person – $56,750
• 2 person – $64,850
• 3 person – $72,950
• 4 person – $81,050
• 5 person – $87,550
• 6 person – $94, 050
• 7 person – $100,550
• 8 person – $107,000
• Is qualified for unemployment benefits,   or
• Has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or has experienced a financial hardship during COVID-19
• Demonstrate housing instability or a risk of being unhoused.

Eligibility requirements for the City of Riverside Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program:

• Household’s income cannot exceed 80% of the Riverside County’s income limit
• Financially impacted by COVID-19

Los Angeles

Eligibility requirements for the United Los Angeles Emergency Renters Assistance Program:

• To verify if you live in the City of Los Angeles, go to neighborhoodla.org.
• One or more individuals within the household have experienced a loss of employment
• Reduction in household income
• Experienced other financial hardship between March 2020 and now
• Have unpaid rent due to their current landlord for any month(s) between April 1, 2020, through now
• The current household income is at or below 80% of the area median income

Eligibility requirements for the LA Rental Assistance Program:

• Head of household identifies as a woman.
• Must file taxes as Head of Household
• Have dependents of any age living in the same household
• Lived in their homes for a minimum of three months
• Has received or anticipate receiving a pay or quit notice from landlord or management company.
• Demonstrate family is facing an unexpected financial hardship that is preventing them from paying rent and have a plan to maintain housing after assistance.
• Live in one of the four designated zip codes of 90004, 90028, 90029, or 90038.

Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance ​Program:

• Pay your heating or cooling bills, even if you use wood, propane, or oil
• In an emergency or energy crisis, such as a utility disconnection
• LIHEAP services can vary depending on income, household size, place of residence, and other factors

Eligibility requirements for the The Home Energy Assistance Program:

• A current original electric bill
• A current original gas bill
• Copies of all household income for the past 30 days for all adults 18 years or older
• Signed affidavits for all household members age 18 or older who do not have any source of income
• A copy of your valid California driver’s license or other valid California picture ID
• Applicant’s Social Security number

San Bernardino

• Pay your heating or cooling bills, even if you use wood, propane, or oil.
• In an emergency or energy crisis, such as a utility disconnection.

Colorado Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Colorado rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program:

• Public assistance benefit letter (if anyone living in your home receives public assistance)
• Energy provider account number
• Income verification for the past 3 months
• For renters, landlord must complete the consent agreement 

Arapahoe County

Eligibility requirements for Arapahoe County Rent, Mortgage, and Utility Assistance:

• Earn less than 80% of the area median income
• Legally present in the United States
• IDs for everyone in household
• Income verification for all working members (proof of Human Services Benefits such as SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid may be substituted)
• Fill out self-attestation form if unable to provide proof of income

Eligibility requirements for the Arapahoe County rent assistance:

• Households that are applying for the first time
• Households with income less than 50% of area median income
• All other households at risk of housing instability

Douglas County

Eligibility requirements for the Douglas County Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Must be a renter with a valid lease
• Received a 10-day notice
• Demand for payment of rent 
• Received a utility shut-off notice
• demand for payment of rent
• utility shut-off notice

Larimer County

Eligibility requirements for the Larimer County Emergency Rent Assistance Program:

• Identification/government issued ID for primary applicant
• Income information showing applicant name and address
• Current utility bill or other official business mail addressed to applicant at the address
• Unemployment benefits letter and/or unemployment benefits statement(s), if you are collecting unemployment
• Income documentation for all household members 18 years of age or above and children who have income

Eligibility requirements for the Jefferson County Emergency Assistance COVID-19:

• A household has not used 18 months of ERAP assistance
• Households are under 50% area median income
• Households must have current eviction notice and/or court date
• Household must have a current lease
• A household’s landlord/property management company must work with the program
• Documentation of cost

Denver County

Eligibility requirements for the Temporary Rent and Utility Assistance:

• The property you are requesting assistance for is your primary residence and is in the City and County of Denver
• The tenant or homeowner’s household income is at or below 80% of area median income
• You have experienced an unexpected financial hardship

Adams County

Eligibility requirements for the ACCESS Housing:

• Documentation of resident
• Proof of income.

Connecticut Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Connecticut rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the UniteCT:

• The household must have an annual gross income of less than 80% of the annual median income. Further income restrictions apply if the tenant previously maxed out on UniteCT rental assistance.
• Applicant must have a pending eviction as evidenced by the filing of a Summons located on the   Superior Court Case Look-up website at the time the application is created
• The tenant must currently live under the same address that is stated on their Summons & Complaint
• Tenant must provide evidence of nonpayment of rent

Eligibility requirements for the Connecticut Rental Assistance Program:

• Participation is limited to U. S. citizens and specified categories of non-citizens who have eligible immigration status
• The family’s income may not exceed 50 percent of the annual median income for the county or metropolitan area in which the family chooses to live

Eligibility requirements for the Emergency Rental Assistance for Connecticut’s Economy:

• Financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
• Earn no more than 80% of HUD’s area median income

Delaware Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Delaware rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Catholic Charities:

• Photo ID for all adults
• Social Security cards for all household members over 6 months of age
• Proof of US citizenship
• Proof of Delaware residency
• Proof of unemployment compensation or child support
• Proof of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
• Current natural gas, propane, and/or electric bill with current address and account number
• Proof of home ownership
• Proof of renter status

Florida Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Florida rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Alachua County

Eligibility requirements for the Alachua County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Responsible for paying rent for a residential dwelling unit in Alachua County
• Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income due to COVID-19
• Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median

Broward County

Eligibility requirements for the Broward County Rental Assistance Program:

• You are unable to pay your full rent during or as a result of a COVID-19 caused financial hardship
• You have received valid notice of a rent increase that you are unable to pay
• You are able to demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability (including eviction notice, utility shutoff notice, past due rent notice, past due utility notice, or any other evidence of unsafe or unhealthy living conditions or housing stability)
• You have a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median income

Hialeah City

Eligibility requirements for the Hialeah City Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• You are a US Citizen or permanent resident
• You experienced a reduction in household income or an increase in household expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic
• 1 person – $34,150
• 2 people – $39,000
• 3 people – $43,900
• 4 people – $48,750
• 5 people – $52,650
• 6 people – $56,550
• 7 people – $60,450
• 8 people – $64,350

Orange County

Eligibility requirements for the Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Behind on rent  or have received an unforeseen rental increase of 10% or more
• Household income does not exceed 80 percent of area median income
• Experienced a significant reduction in income or increase in costs due to OVID-19  or     an adult household member experienced a recent financial hardship that can be verified as the direct cause for the household falling behind on rent
• Are experiencing housing instability
• Have not previously applied

Palm Beach County

Eligibility requirements for the Palm Beach County Rental Assistance:

• Total household income at or below 60% of the state median income or 150% of the federal poverty level.

Polk County

Eligibility requirements for the Polk County Eviction Prevention Program:

• Experienced reduced household income due to COVID-19
• Experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19
• At risk of being homeless (have received an eviction notice, utility shutoff notice, past due rent notice, or past due utility notice)

Hillsborough and Tampa Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Hillsborough County Rapid Response Recovery Assistance Program (R3):

• Income no more than 80% of area median income
• Risk experiencing homelessness or housing instability

Georgia Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Georgia rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Fulton County

Eligibility requirements for the Atlanta LIHWAP Program:  

• Current water bill (Must show your name, full address, account number, and amount due)
• Proof of income for the last 30 days for all occupants over 18 years old
• Valid photo ID (driver’s license, permanent resident card, passport, etc.)

DeKalb County

Eligibility requirements for the DeKalb Tenant-Landlord Assistance Coalition:

• Family of one: $46,350
• Family of two: $52,950
• Family of three: $59,550
• Family of four: $66,150

Henry County

Eligibility requirements for the Henry County COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Fund:

• Place of residence must be a rental property, single or multi-family home, or mobile home lot, or hotel/motel
• Show that you are unable to pay the full or a portion of past due rent and/or utilities or unable to pay security deposit as a result of a recent loss of income (job loss, furlough, reduced work hours to care for child(ren), or medical hospitalization/diagnosis of COVID-19)
• Qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a loss of income as a result of COVID-19
• At risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Current executed lease (signed by both you and the property official/landlord) and, as the applicant, be listed on the lease agreement (unless applying for security deposit assistance – provide welcome/move-in letter)
• Current household income after March 13, 2020 must be equal to or less than 80% area median income as defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development

Fulton County and Atlanta

Eligibility requirements for the  LIHEAP Heating Program:

• Current gas bill and electric bill (Must show name, full address, account number, and amount due)

Eligibility requirements for the Augusta LIHEAP Program:

• Certified birth certificate
• Updated immunization records
• Verification of income
• Medicaid card
• Head Start application

Cartersville

Eligibility requirements for the Cartersville LIHEAP Program:

• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Social Security cards for ALL household members
• Proof of income for the 30-days, including students
• Current electric bill
• Current heating bill
• Current water bill

Muscogee County

Eligibility requirements for the Energy Assistance In Muscogee County:

• Proof of income for the past 30 days for all adults
• Current proof of citizenship or legal immigrant status, state-issued picture identification (ID) such as: driver’s license, ID card, voter registration card, passport, military ID, etc., for each person 18 or older.
• Proof of Social Security numbers for each person in the household
• Last/current month’s electric, gas/propane, and water bill for the household if applicable
• If receiving SSI, Social Security, Pension, VA Benefits, or Workers Compensation, the current year’s award letter

Gwinnett, Rockdale, Newton and Walton Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Decatur Utility Assistance

• Proof of income for the last 30 days for all household members 18 and older
• Current gas bill

Eligibility requirements for the Middle Georgia Utility Assistance:  

• Home improvements and energy conservation measures
• Installation of attic insulation, broken window repair, air sealing using caulk, water heater replacement and/or wrap, the replacement of light bulbs with more efficient varieties, and more.
• Health and safety surveys.

Eligibility requirements for the Jasper LIHEAP Program:

• Most recent heating bill
• Most recent electric bill
• Proof of a valid Social Security number
• Driver’s license or valid photo ID
• Documentation proving alien status to your county

Eligibility requirements for the CAFI Energy Assistance:

• Photo ID for all household members over 18
• Social Security Number for all household members
• Proof of income for all household members 18 and over for a month prior to your application
• Copy of your most recent gas and/or light bill

Macon-Bibb County

Eligibility requirements for the Macon Energy Assistance:

• Valid Picture ID
• Current electric and gas bills
• Proof of income for all adults 18 years and older

Baldwin, Greene, Hancock, Jasper, Johnson, Morgan, Putnam, Washington, and Wilkinson Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Milledgeville Energy Assistance:

• Make less money than the poverty guideline amounts

Eligibility requirements for Georgia’s Low Income Household Water Assistance Program:

• Most recent active water bill or statement of service from their household water supplier
• Proof of income for the last 30 days for each adult household member
• Proof of Social Security numbers for each household member
• Proof of citizenship for each household member
• Proof of Social Security or unemployment benefits for all household members

Eligibility requirements for the Waycross Energy Assistance Program:

• Valid ID for applicant
• Social Security card(s) for all household members
• Most recent electric bill, heating bill if home is heated with source other than electricity

Hawaii Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Hawaii rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Rent Relief Program:

• Be 18 years or older
• Prove one or more members of household has qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or other financial hardship due to COVID-19
• Demonstrate imminent risk of homelessness or housing instability, unsafe or unhealthy living conditions, or any other evidence of such risk
• Earn less than 80% area median income

Eligibility requirements for the State of Hawaii Emergency Rental Assistance:  

• One or more individuals in the household has qualified for unemployment benefits
• One or more individuals in the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

Idaho Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Idaho rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Idaho Housing and Finance Association’s Housing Preservation Application:

• A copy of your lease agreement
• A rent delinquency notice or your past-due utility bill
• A signed copy of this eligibility form
• A signed copy of this release form
• Basic information about each household member
• An electronic copy of a government-issued ID

Eligibility requirements for the Idaho ENERGY ASSISTANCE:

• Name & birth dates for all household members
• Social Security number/verification of US citizenship, US nationality, legal permanent residency, or qualified alien status for all household members
• Provide gross income for all household members
• Provide proof of current address
• For energy assistance: electricity vendor name & account number (electricity/utility bill)
• For water assistance: primary provider & account number (water & wastewater bill)

Eligibility requirements for the Washington Heating Assistance:

• Verification of US Citizenship
• Proof of Social Security number for all household members
• Proof of utility account service, such as a utility bill
• Proof of address, such as: mortgage statement, or lease agreement
• Proof of income for the 3 months prior to the date you apply

Adams, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley and Washington Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Western Idaho LIHEAP:

• Names and birthdates for all household members
• Social Security numbers for at least one household members
• Heating energy vendor name and account number
• Electricity vendor name and account number
• Verification of service address
• Verification of previous months income
• Completed and signed online application

Elmore and Ada Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program:

• 60% of the state median income
• 150% of the poverty income guidelines
• Submit a copy of their utility bill
• Provide information about each member of their household

Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida and Power Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Southeastern Idaho LIHEAP:

• Name, address, phone number, Social Security umber, and email address
• Names/birthdates for all household members
• Heating energy vendor name/account number
• Electric vendor name/account number/service agreement number
• Verification of residence address
• Income verification for the previous month

Blaine, Camas, Gooding, Lincoln, Jerome, Cassia, Minidoka and Twin Falls Counties

Eligibility requirements for the South Central Idaho LIHEAP:

• Prior months’ income for entire the household
• Your latest heating bill with account number and address
• Your latest electric bill with account number and address

Illinois Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Illinois rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Illinois LIHEAP Program:

• Household’s combined income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty line using state funds
• Household’s combined income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level using DOE and HHS funding.

Indiana Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Indiana rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Marion and Hamilton Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance (IERA) Program :

• Experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Have an active eviction with a court case number and filing date
• Must be a household at or below 80% of the AMI
• The AMI values for this program can be found in table

Iowa Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Iowa rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the Iowa Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program:

• Household income must be at or below 200% of the 2022 federal poverty guidelines

Des Moines, Henry, Lee and Louisa Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Southeast Iowa LIHWAP:

• 30 days documentation of ALL household income for all adults in the household
• Proof of Social Security numbers of all household members
• Birth dates for all household members

Benton, Delaware, Dubuque, Iowa, Jackson, Johnson, Jones, Linn and Washington Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Hawkeye Area LIHWAP:

• Gas, electricity, or LP under 30 percent from April 1st through September 30th
• Identification
• Heating Bill
• Electric Bill
• Utility Authorization Release

Boone, Jasper, Marion, Polk and Warren Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Iowa LIHWAP:

• Proof of Social Security Numbers for all household members
• Proof of income for all household members

Adair, Adams, Taylor and Union Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Iowa Emergency Assistance programs:

• Proof of income for the past
• 30 days or your most recent income tax return
• Recent heat bill
• Recent electric bill
• Birthdates of all household members.
• Proof of Social Security numbers

Cherokee, Ida, Lyon, Plymouth and Sioux Counties

Eligibility requirements for the LiHEAP Mid-Sioux:

• Earn less than 200% of federal poverty guidelines
• Owners and renters both qualify

Butler, Cerro Gordo, Floyd, Franklin, Hancock, Kossuth, Mitchell, Winnebago and Worth Counties

Eligibility requirements for the North Iowa LiHEAP:

Allamakee, Bremer, Chickasaw, Clayton, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Northeast Iowa LiHEAP:

• Recent copies of utility bills
• Social Security cards for all persons living in your household
• Final utility termination notice
• Proof of gross income for the past 30 days

Black Hawk, Buchanan and Grundy Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Iowa LIHEAP:

• Must have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
• Have a disconnect notice, delinquent notice, or be unable to make a pay agreement
• U.S. Citizen or legal resident
• Water company must have agreed to participate in the LIHWAP program

Clarke, Decatur, Lucas, Monroe and Wayne Counties

Eligibility requirements for the South Central Iowa Utility Bill Assistance:

• Proof of Social Security numbers for all household members

Appanoose, Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Wapello and Van Buren Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Southern Iowa Energy Assistance:

Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson, Emmett, Hamilton, Humboldt, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Webster and Wright Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Iowa Energy Assistance:

• Proof of identity for everyone living in the home
• Gas, electric and/or water utility bills
• Proof of income for every adult living in the home
• Income from the past 30 days

Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Monona, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie and Shelby Counties

Eligibility requirements for the West Central Iowa Energy Assistance:

• Most recent heat bill

Kansas Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Kansas rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Ellis County

Eligibility requirements for Rental Assistance for residents of Ellis County:

• Applicants are in need of housing
• Applicants are families, couples, or single women
• Must be 18 or older
• Adult applicants must be clear of any illegal or controlled substances and have no alcohol in their system
• Have no felony convictions involving violence or sexual offenses
• Couples with a child or children must have the equivalent of 40 hours of employment
• Adult applicants must be able to complete activities of daily living, and be able to care for themselves and children (if any)

Kansas City

Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program:

• An adult living at the address must be personally responsible for paying the heating costs incurred at the current residence
• Applicants must demonstrate a recent history of payments toward purchase of the primary heating energy
• Gross household income may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level

Kentucky Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Kentucky rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Louisville Rental Assistance/Eviction Prevention:

• Earn at or below 80% of the area median income
• Proof of homelessness
• Proof of disability (for some programs)

Clay, Jackson, Laurel, and Rockcastle Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Tenant Based Rental Assistance:

• Must be homeless or being evicted from current place of dwelling
• Must have a source of income to be able to pay rent and utilities after moving into the residence
• Must meet the income guidelines for the program
• Must not have moved into the residence prior to receiving help from Daniel Boone CAA, Inc.
• Residence must pass HQS inspection

Eligibility requirements for the The HOME TBRA Program:

• Earn at or below 80 percent of the area median income

Louisiana Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Louisiana rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Energy Assistance Program:

• Utility bills for heating and cooling no older than 30 days
• Previous 30 days for all household employment
• Proof of unearned income
• Disconnect or pending disconnection notice
• Proof of present address
• Government-issued photo ID
• Social Security cards

Calcasieu Parish

Eligibility requirements for the Calcasieu Parish Emergency Rental Assistance Program:  

• Must not have history of any prior ERAP assistance
• Earn less than 80 percent of the area median income
• Demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability

Eligibility requirements for the Lafayette Parish Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Past-due rent or utility bills
• Household income is at or below 80 percent of the area median income

New Orleans

Eligibility requirements for the New Orleans Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Valid State ID or passport
• Proof of residency (lease/utility bill)
• HANO worksheet

St. Tammany Parish

Eligibility requirements for the St. Tammany Rental Assistance Program:

• Income at or below 80 percent of the area median income
• Reduction in household income or incurred significant costs
• Experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19

Baton Rouge

Eligibility requirements for the East Baton Rouge Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Income documentation
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of obligation to pay rent
• Proof of current housing instability

Eligibility requirements for the The Calcasieu Parish Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Experiencing financial distress
• Proof of financial distress
• A lease or rental agreement
• Valid identification for all adult members of household
• Ledger or past due notice for rent

East Baton Rouge

Eligibility requirements for the Baton Rouge Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Photo identification

Eligibility requirements for the City Of New Orleans COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program:

• Valid state ID or passport
• Proof of residency (lease, utility bill, etc.)

St. Tammany

Eligibility requirements for the St Tammany Rental Assistance Program:

• Reduction in household income, incurred significant costs

Maryland Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Maryland rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Annual income at or below 50% of the area median income
• Valid current lease identification
• Income verification
• Tenant certification
• Tenant worksheet

Eligibility requirements for the The Strategic Targeted Eviction Prevention (STEP) Program:

• Must be below 80% of the area median income
• Must have suffered a hardship
• 3 or more months behind on rent 

Eligibility requirements for the Arundel Community Development Services Eviction Prevention Program (EPP):

• Verification of household income
• Rental/lease agreement or sublease
• Photo identification for all adult members of household
• Evidence of income loss due to or during the COVID-19 public health emergency

Eligibility requirements for the Carroll Rental Assistance Program:

• Household’s income may not exceed 50% of the area median income

Charles County

Eligibility requirements for the Charles County Eviction Assistance Grants:

• Have a potential for or already be facing eviction
• Not live in federally subsidized housing
• Have lost some or all of income due to COVID-19
• Have income below 80% of HUD’s median income

Kent and Caroline Counties

• Copy of photo ID
• Copy of lease or alternative documentation
• Documentation of household income
• Documentation of housing instability and overdue payments
• Documentation of relocation or new unit expenses if requesting assistance for other housing-related costs

Prince George

Eligibility requirements for the Prince George’s County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Copies of delinquent utility bills
• Copy of landlord signed W-9 Form
• Landlord Rental Assistance Agreement
• Rent ledger

Wicomico County

Eligibility requirements for the Wicomico County ERAP Program:

• Tenant obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling
• Household income at or below 80% of area median income
• 1 or more individuals qualified for unemployment assistance
• Experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, have a past due utility or rent notice, or have eviction notice
• Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions
• Any other evidence of such risk, as determined by DHCD

Massachusetts Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Massachusetts rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Massachusetts Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• ID for head of household
• Proof of current housing
• Verification of housing crisis

Eligibility requirements for the City of Boston’s Rental Relief Fund:

• Households earning less than 50% of AMI

Michigan Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Michigan rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) Program:

• Household income is below 80% AMI
• Have experienced an eligible COVID-19 hardship
• Household can demonstrate risk of experiencing homelessness
• Copy of past-due rent notice
• Copy of state ID or passport
• Most current copy of lease agreement in tenant’s name
• Provide all proof of earned
• Copy of utility statements
• Copy of internet bill/statement

Eligibility requirements for the Michigan Energy & Weatherization:

• Household income being at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines

Minnesota Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Minnesota rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

East Central Minnesota

Eligibility requirements for the East Central Minnesota Emergency Housing Assistance:

• Proof of income for all adults
• If you are currently homeless or searching for a new place to live, provide a copy of the new rental agreement when housing is found
• Documentation of your emergency (late rent or mortgage notice)

Eligibility requirements for the East Central Minnesota Energy Assistance:

• Households whose gross income is at or below 60% of the state median income for the most recent three month period

Hennepin County

Eligibility requirements for the Hennepin County Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Does not receive a rental subsidy, such as an MPHA or Section 8 subsidy
• Have household income at or below Federal Poverty Income Guidelines
• Have a denial letter from Hennepin County Emergency Assistance or other rental assistance provider if seeking security deposit assistance .

Eligibility requirements for the Hennepin County Energy Assistance & Water Assistance:

• Gross 3-month household income must be between $7,643 – $20,724 depending on the household size.

Itasca and Koochiching Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Itasca and Koochiching Counties Crisis Rent Assistance Program:

• Household income verification for the last 30 days
• Third-party verification of homelessness (if applicable)
• Eviction letter (if applicable)
• Verification of crisis (medical, job loss, repair receipts, etc.)
• Verification of any funds paid toward the crisis

Anòka County

Eligibility requirements for the Anòka County Energy Assistance program:

• Proof of all gross income received by all people in household in the last 3 full calendar months before the month you sign your application.

Cook, Lake and St. Louis Counties, including the City of Duluth, and Grand Portage Reservation

Eligibility requirements for the Northeast Minnesota Energy Assistance Program:

• Gross 3-months household income must be between $9,171 – $24,869 depending on the household size.

Northwest Minnesota

Eligibility requirements for the Northwest Minnesota Energy Assistance Program:

• Eligibility for Energy Assistance is calculated based on your income (income before taxes and other deductions) for a three-month period and the number of people in your household.

Scott and Carver Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Scott and Carver Counties Energy Assistance:

• Annual Income must be between $32,667 – $82,925 depending on the household size

Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Le Sueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca and Watonwan Counties

Eligibility requirements for the Southeast Minnesota Water Bills Energy Assistance:

• Gross 3-month income must be between $9,171 – $24,340 depending on the household size

Eligibility requirements for the Southeast Minnesota Energy Assistance Program:

• Annual income must be between $36,687 – $122,760 depending on the household size

Cottonwood, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lincoln, Lyon, McLeod, Meeker, Redwood, and Renville Counties

Eligibility requirements for the UCAP’s Energy Assistance:

• Gross 3-month income must be between $9,171 – $24,869 depending on the household size

Ramsey and Washington County

Eligibility requirements for the Ramsey and Washington County Energy Assistance:

• 3-month gross household income must be between $9,171 – $24,340 depending on the household size

Ramsey County

Eligibility requirements for the Ramsey County Emergency Assistance:

• Have not received EA/EGA help in the last 12 months.
• Income is less than 200% of the federal poverty guideline for household size
• Do not have enough resources to resolve your crisis
• Have enough income to pay bills moving forward

Eligibility requirements for the Washington County Emergency Assistance Program:

• Has income below 200% of the federal poverty guideline
• Has enough income to afford their basic need expenses for at least the next two calendar months
• Does not have available resources to take care of their own emergency

Chippewa, Big Stone, Lac qui Parle, Swift and Yellow Medicine Counties

Eligibility requirements for the West Central Minnesota Energy Assistance Program:

• Gross 3-month income must be between $9,171 – $122,760 depending on the household size

Clay, Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens, Traverse and Wilkin Counties

• Eligibility and awards are based on income, household size, and fuel cost

Wright County

Eligibility requirements for the Wright County Energy Assistance Program:  

• 3-month gross household income must be between $9,171 – $30,690 depending on the household size

Missouri Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Missouri rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Greene County

Eligibility requirements for the Voluntary Action Center :

• VAC understands that sometimes individuals may need some help with rent due to unforeseen/emergency circumstances.
• VAC receives funding to provide rent assistance for those who may need it. Assistance ranges from one month to several months depending on the grants and eligibility. We do not provide utility assistance.
• Rent assistance, please contact the VAC office at 573.874.2273 for eligibility.

Mississippi Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Mississippi  rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Mississippi Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program:

• Home Energy bills
• Energy Crisis (emergency)
• Weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs,(natural gas, wood, electricity, liquid propane/butane gas and other energy-related services)
• Individuals must be within 60 percent of the current State Median Income Poverty Guidelines

Montana Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Montana rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Home Energy, Water and Weatherization Assistance Programs:

• Household annual income must be between $28,136 – $119,505, depending on the household size

Prince George’s County

Eligibility requirements for the Prince George’s County Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP):

• Must be scheduled by the Sheriff for eviction, or there must be an active Warrant for Possession that would allow the Sheriff to evict, or renter received a court summons or court judgement.
• Faced a financial hardship arising because of or during the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Nebraska Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Nebraska rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the LIHEAP and CSBG Program:

• Household annual income must be between $20,385 – $69,945 depending on the household size

Eligibility requirements for the Douglas County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Suffered a financial hardship due to COVID-19
• Experiencing a risk of homelessness or housing instability (includes having a past due rent or utility bill)

Lancaster County

Eligibility requirements for the Lancaster County Emergency Relief Assistance Program:

• Has had a loss of income due to COVID-19
• Have unpaid rent balance that began on or after March 13, 2020
• Must not duplicate other federal, state, or local assistance

New Jersey Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of New Jersey rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Hudson County

Eligibility requirements for the Hudson County CARES II Eviction Prevention:

• Must have received a summons for eviction or notice from the landlord that rent is owed
• Financial hardship must have been caused during March 2020 through August 2021
• Annual household income must not exceed 80% of the area median income

Jersey City

Eligibility requirements for the Jersey City COVID-19 Rent Relief Program:

• Income loss due to COVID-19
• Rent owed since April 2020-November 2022
• Incurred significant pandemic-induced cost or financial hardship
• Have not previously received the full $10,000 from a past application to this program

Mercer County

Eligibility requirements for the Mercer County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Experienced a reduction in income
• Suffered major costs directly or indirectly related to COVID-19
• Demonstrate a risk of homelessness or housing instability
• Household’s income must be at or below 80% of the area median income

New Mexico Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of New Mexico rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

• Income no more than 150% of the federal poverty line
• Annual household income must be between $20,385 – $69,945 depending on the household size

Bernalillo County

Eligibility requirements for the Bernalillo County Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants (RENT) Assistance:

• Had a financial impact during the COVID-19 pandemic that has made it difficult to pay rent
• Currently be on a lease, or have a commitment to sign a lease and not be recipients of other federally subsidized rental assistance programs (such as Section 8 or Project-Based Voucher assistance, a Housing Choice Voucher, or Public Housing)
• Not be a full-time student whose rent is paid by someone else
• Have documentation that shows the household’s current total gross household income is less than 80% of the median family income

Doña Ana County

Eligibility requirements for the Doña Ana County Emergency Rent & Utilities Assistance Program:

• Household income must be less than 50% of the area median income
• Have been unemployed for more than 90 days, are facing eviction, or have had utilities shut off

New York Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of New York rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Town of Oyster Bay Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Financially affected by COVID-19
• Household income must be under 80% of the area median income

North Carolina Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of North Carolina rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Haliwa-Siponi Indian Tribe

Eligibility requirements for the Haliwa-Siponi Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Must be an enrolled member of the Haliwa-Siponi Indian Tribe
• Must be renting
• Income at or below 80% of the area median income
• Experienced a reduction of income or have had other financial hardship due to COVID
• Experienced or are at risk of experiencing homelessness
• Must not already be getting federally funding rental or rental energy assistance
• Not limited to Tribal Territory
• Must provide 2 months of most recent and current utility bills for energy/utility assistance

North Dakota Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of North Dakota rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the ND Rent Help Program:

• Earning less than 80% of area median income, which equals an annual income of up to $80,000 for a family of four depending on the county in which they live
• Have received unemployment benefits or have experienced financial hardship since the beginning of the pandemic since March 13, 2020
• At risk of housing instability or homelessness due to difficulty affording housing and housing-related costs
• Households who are at imminent risk of eviction

Ohio Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Ohio rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Clermont County

Eligibility requirements for the Clermont County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Household income must be under 85% of the area median income (Area median income for a family of one is $48,350; family of four is $69,050)

Eligibility requirements for the Salvation Army Greater Cincinnati Area Rent Assistance :

• Those seeking assistance should call 513-762-5660, to schedule an in-person visit with a trained staff member.

Eligibility requirements for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Rent and Utility Assistance :

• City of Cincinnati residents
• Meets income criteria (200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline)
• Has notice to leave and/or eviction notice

Delaware County

Eligibility requirements for the Pathways to Hope:

• Proof of all household income from the last 30 days
• Provide additional information relevant to your case, including an eviction or shut off notice.

Hamilton County

Eligibility requirements for the Community Action Agency Home Relief Program :

• 80% AMI, based on 12 month’s income or 30 days income
• Direct or indirect COVID-19 hardship.
• One or more individuals at risk of homelessness or housing instability.
• Qualified for unemployment 2020/21 or reduction in household income.

Lake County

Eligibility requirements for the Lake County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Household income at or below 80% of the area median income

Mahoning County

Eligibility requirements for the Mahoning County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

Oklahoma Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Oklahoma rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

• Be responsible for payment of home energy (households are not eligible for LIHEAP if the utility bill is paid directly to the provider by someone who does not reside at the residence)
• Be a United States citizen or legally admitted for permanent residence
• Meet specific income guidelines that vary according to household size

Oregon Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Oregon rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Washington County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Households must earn under 50% of the area median income

Pennsylvania Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Pennsylvania rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Pennsylvania Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

Berks County

Eligibility requirements for the Berks County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Qualify for PA unemployment compensation OR
• Experienced a 20% or more reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardships AND
• Household income at or below 80% of area median income AND
• At risk of homelessness or housing instability

Chester County

Eligibility requirements for the Chester County Emergency Rent & Utility Assistance Program:

Cumberland County

Eligibility requirements for the Cumberland County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Annual household income must be between $29,750 – $56,100, depending on the household size
• Homelessness must be documented; acceptable documentation includes a letter from a shelter, caseworker or other agency verifying homeless status

Westmoreland County

Eligibility requirements for the Westmoreland County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

Wayne County

Eligibility requirements for the Wayne County Emergency Rental Assistance Program :  

• Tenants must be US citizens
• qualified non-citizens with unexpired immigration status
• Reduce the number of months assistance is received from 18 to 12
• Pay arrearages only, such as past due rent and utilities
• Limit eligible household income to <50% AMI
• Unemployed households which have been unemployed for 90 days

York County

Eligibility requirements for the York County’s Emergency Rent Assistance Program:

• You must rent your home or apartment
• Demonstrate a financial impact directly or indirectly related to the COVID-19 pandemic
• One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• The household must be a low-income family

Wyoming County

Eligibility requirements for the Wyoming County Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance Program :

• You must qualify for Unemployment or have experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19
• You must demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or loss of housing stability
• Your gross household income must be below the income levels

Rhode Island Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Rhode Island  rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Rhode Island LIHEAP:

• You don’t have to be on public assistance
• You don’t need to have an unpaid heating bill
• You can either rent or own your home
• Households must meet 60% of Rhode Island’s Median Income Levels that are set each program year

South Carolina Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of South Carolina rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Spartanburg County

Eligibility requirements for the Spartanburg County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Must be at-risk for homelessness
• Yearly income cannot be over 30% of the area median income
• Must have had a sudden loss of income

South Dakota Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of South Dakota rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the South Dakota CARES Housing Assistance Program:

• Households income qualify based on county of residence
• Have one or more individuals in the household who has qualified for unemployment benefits, experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the coronavirus outbreak
• Have one or more individuals in the household that have a past due utility bill, rent notice, or are able to prove that they are at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability

Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Energy and Weatherization Assistance:

• Complete an application
• Total gross income may not exceed maximum income guidelines
• Be responsible for paying home heating costs

Tennessee Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Tennessee rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the Tennessee Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program:

• 60% of State Median Income guidelines can receive assistance.
• You don’t need to have a past due energy bill
• You can rent or own your home

Texas Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Texas rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Galveston County

Eligibility requirements for the Galveston County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Must be impacted by COVID-19 or are having difficulty paying or collecting past due rent or current rent

Eligibility requirements for the Abilene Housing Authority :

• Be below income limits equal to 50% of the Area Median Income for the appropriate geographic area
• At least one member of the household must be a citizen of the U.S. or have eligible immigration status
• Must not owe any housing authorities any debts from previous participation in assisted housing programs
• Must not have been terminated from any assisted housing program in the last year
• May not be convicted of any violent or drug-related criminal activity in the past 3 years
• Not been convicted of manufacture or distribution of methamphetamines on any federally funded housing property/program
• Not subject to a lifetime registration as a sex offender

Grand Prairie and Dallas

Eligibility requirements for the Grand Prairie United Charities :

• Picture ID for all household members 18+
• Social Security Cards for ALL household members
• Proof of income for the past 60 days for all household members 18+. (this includes SNAP, SSI, Disability, Child Support, Pension, Unemployment ALL INCOME.) No income, No worries. We have a non-employment affidavit for your use
• Current signed Lease or Mortgage Statement or Section 8 Housing Letter
• Current utility bill(s) not disconnect notice
• If the following apply, please submit: Child Support Documentation, Food Stamp Award Letter, Housing Award Letter, Social Security/Disability Award Letter
• Two Months of Bank Statements

Eligibility requirements for the Brownwood Housing Authority :

• Certified birth certificate of ALL household members (hospital announcements will not be accepted)
• Social Security card for ALL household members
• If you have a job, please provide 4 consecutive current pay stubs
• If you are self-employed you will need to provide a current 1099 or a ledger
• Pension or retirement
• SSI/SS award letter
• Child Support
• Unemployment Benefits
• Workers Compensation
• TANF award letter
• Income from Rental Property
• Babysitting or Adult Care
• Military Pay/ Reserves/ VA Benefits of Housing
• Investment Income/ Royalty

Tarrant County

Eligibility requirements for the Community Action Partners Services :

• Must be the account holder or authorized user on utility account if requesting utility assistance (authorized user must reside in the home)
• Utility assistance covers electricity, water and gas/ propane only
• Must be the primary lease or mortgage holder if requesting rental or mortgage assistance
• May only apply for rent, mortgage or utility assistance related to one primary property

Eligibility requirements for the Northwest Assistance Ministries Rent and MortgageAssistance Program :

• Photo identification for adult household members
• SS cards for every household member (Previous year tax return with social security number is acceptable)
• Birth Certificate for children 0-17 years of age (Birth facts acceptable)
• Entire current signed (electronic signatures are accepted) written lease, housing agreement or mortgage statement (dated within last 30 days) in the name of the client applying for assistance
• Copy of Utility (water, electricity, gas, cable) bill dated within 30 days
• Proof of household income for the past 45 days
• Current SNAP award letter (if applicable)
• Current SSI award letter for anyone in the household receiving it(if applicable)
• Unemployment statement (if applicable)
• Proof of loss must be within 30 days
• Documented proof of doctor’s appointment, 1st day of work, interview or homelessness (if applicable)

Eligibility requirements for the PATH Rent & Mortgage Assistance :

• Have you been helped with rent in the last 2 years?- PATH helps with rent one time every 2 years
• Do you have an eviction notice? – You must be subject to being evicted for us to assist with rent.
• Did you have something unexpected happen that caused you to be unable to pay rent this month? – You must have had an unexpected expense or loss of income for us to assist.
• Are you normally able to pay your rent with your income? – You must have enough income to cover your own rent under normal circumstances. Once we pay rent, you should be able to pay rent on your own next month. We require proof of income for the household. (30 days)
• If you qualify, a caseworker will schedule an appointment. When you have been scheduled for an appointment, please bring your eviction notice, income documentation, and ID

Utah Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Utah rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the Home Energy Assistance Target Program:

• The total household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level
• The household is responsible for paying home energy costs
• The household has at least one adult (18 years of age or older or emancipated)
• The household contains at least one US citizen or qualified non-citizen

Vermont Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Vermont rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the Upper Valley Housing Helpers:

• To be able to speak with a service coordinator at LISTEN, participants must live in LISTEN’s service area. You are eligible for a grant every five years.

To apply, click here

Eligibility requirements for the Vermont State Housing AuthorityLandlord Relief Program:

• The gross rent (rent plus all utilities) must meet affordability standards for an individual/family at 80% of AMI
• Landlords must demonstrate regular inspections have been performed on the property and unit, and inspections will continue to occur after the claim is processed
• Properties owned by a housing authority are not eligible
• Properties owned by non-profit housing agencies with project-based subsidies or tax credits attached are not eligible

Eligibility requirements for the State of Vermont Emergency/General Assistance:

• Have an emergency need
• Not have the income or resources to meet that need

Eligibility requirements for the The Emergency Needs Fund:

• Low-income residents of the Southshire experiencing financial crisis are eligible to receive financial assistance. The Fund helps with costs like rent, mortgage payments and shelter
• Funds can be used for utility payments or other household necessities
• If you already work with a case manager from another organization, please consult them before requesting funds
• To request assistance from the Emergency Needs Fund, contact the Fund Manager
• Alternatively, you can also get an application at GBCS’ office on Depot Street

Brattleboro / Windham County

Eligibility requirements for the SEVCA Housing Assistance Program:

• Be a resident of Windham or Windsor County
• Be homeless or at-risk of homelessness
• Needs assessed individually, please call  800-464-9951  to speak to your local Family Services office.

Chittenden County

Eligibility requirements for the COTS Private Funds:

• Currently residing in Chittenden County
• Currently a tenant of COTS
• All requests must be tied to a housing plan to support immediate housing stability with an identified timeline
• Financial assistance is provided to households who would become or remain homeless WITHOUT financial assistance alone
• Households will be required to provide documentation on their housing status, income verification, and documentation of liability

Virginia Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Virginia rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the The Virginia Energy Assistance Program:

• Must be resident of the locality in which application is made
• Must have a heating or cooling expense responsibility
• Household must contain at least one vulnerable individual who is age 60 or over
• Household must contain at lwho is living with a disability, or is under age 6.
• Monthly gross income may not exceed list of Household Size and Maximum Income

Washington Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Washington rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship.

Eligibility requirements for the Washington LIHEAP Program:

• Eligibility is based on several factors, including household income, size, and heating costs

Clark County

Eligibility requirements for the Clark County Treasury Rent Assistance:

• Household income at or below 50% of the area median income
• Have not yet received T-RAP or TERA Housing Assistance.
• Must be a renter

Lewis County

Eligibility requirements for the Lewis County Emergency Rental Assistance:

• Must have a household income of 80% of the area median income

Pierce County

Eligibility requirements for the Pierce County Rental Assistance:

• Household must agree to Case Management Services
• Household must be a renter
• Household must currently reside in unit
• Household must have past due rent
• Household is behind on rent up to 3 months
• Household is under 80% of the area median income
• Household must have a lease in their own name

Thurston County

Eligibility requirements for the Thurston County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Behind on rent
• At risk of homelessness
• At or below 80% Thurston County area median income

Whatcom County

Eligibility requirements for the Whatcom Rental Assistance Program:

• Must be a resident of Whatcom county
• Household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income
• Household currently behind on rent

Wisconsin Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Wisconsin rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the ​ Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program:

• You must be a resident of Wisconsin
• You must need financial assistance with home energy costs
• You must have an income lower than 60% of the state median income

Dane County

Eligibility requirements for the Dane CORE Program:

• Owe rent to your current or former landlord, or know for certain you won’t be able to pay your rent next month

Milwaukee County

Eligibility requirements for the Milwaukee County Rental Assistance Program:

• Must have an income lower than 80% of the area median income.
• Must have past-due rent
• Have experienced a loss or significant reduction of income or incurred significant expenses due directly or indirectly to the Covid-19 pandemic
• Qualify for unemployment benefits
• Experienced a loss of income in the last 60 days

Waukesha County

Eligibility requirements for the Waukesha County Emergency Rental Assistance Program:

• Must live in Waukesha or Milwaukee County

West Virginia Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of West Virginia rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Eligibility requirements for the West Virginia Low Income Energy Assistance Program:

• Benefits is based on income, household size and whether
• The household is responsible for paying water or wastewater bills.
• The maximum allowable gross income levels for LIHWAP Fiscal Year 2022
• To qualify, the household must meet all program guidelines, which includes an applicant’s annual income being at or below 60 percent of the State Median Income.

Wyoming Rental Assistance Programs

The following is a list of Wyoming rental assistance programs for renters experiencing hardship:

Natrona County

Eligibility requirements for the Interfaith of Natrona County Rent/Utility Assistance:

• Gross family income must not exceed federal poverty income guidelines
• Applicant must demonstrate a verifiable decrease or interruption of income or extraordinary expense
• Applicant must demonstrate a verifiable ability to pay future rent/utility and living expenses
• Applicant must demonstrate homelessness or the danger of becoming homeless
• Other emergency circumstances are considered on a case-by-case basis

U.S. Department of the Treasury

Looking for rental assistance.

Renters and landlords can find out what emergency rental assistance covers, how it works, and who’s eligible on the interagency housing portal hosted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

The Department of the Treasury (Treasury) is providing these frequently asked questions (FAQs) as guidance regarding the requirements of the Emergency Rental Assistance program (ERA1) established by section 501 of Division N of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, Pub. L. No. 116-260 (Dec. 27, 2020) and the Emergency Rental Assistance program (ERA2) established by section 3201 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Pub. L. No. 117-2 (March 11, 2021).

These FAQs apply to both ERA1 and ERA2, except where differences are specifically noted. References in these FAQs to “the ERA” apply to both ERA1 and ERA2. These FAQs will be supplemented by additional guidance. Grantees must establish policies and procedures to govern the implementation of their ERA programs consistent with the statutes and these FAQs. To the extent that these FAQs do not provide specific guidance on a particular issue, a grantee should establish its own policy or procedure that is consistent with the statutes and follow it consistently. Additions and changes to FAQs are tracked in a change log .

1. Who is eligible to receive assistance under the Act and how should a grantee document the eligibility of a household?

A grantee may only use the funds provided in the ERA to provide financial assistance and housing stability services to eligible households. To be eligible, a household must be obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling and the grantee must determine that:

• one or more individuals within the household has qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the COVID-19 outbreak;
• one or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
• the household has a household income at or below 80 percent of area median income.
• one or more individuals within the household has qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic;
• the household is a low-income family (as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)). 2

While there are some differences in eligibility between ERA1 and ERA2, the eligibility requirements are very similar, and Treasury is seeking to implement ERA2 consistently with ERA1, to the extent possible, to reduce administrative burdens for grantees.

The FAQs below describe the documentation requirements for each of these conditions of eligibility. These requirements provide for various means of documentation so that grantees may extend this emergency assistance to vulnerable populations without imposing undue documentation burdens. As described below, given the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, grantees may be flexible as to the particular form of documentation they require, including by permitting photocopies or digital photographs of documents, e-mails, or attestations from employers, landlords, caseworkers, or others with knowledge of the household’s circumstances. Treasury strongly encourages grantees to avoid establishing documentation requirements that are likely to be barriers to participation for eligible households, including those with irregular incomes such as those operating small businesses or gig workers whose income is reported on Internal Revenue Service Form 1099. However, grantees must require all applications for assistance to include an attestation from the applicant that all information included is correct and complete.

When documenting eligibility for households to receive housing stability services without any financial assistance, special considerations apply. The ERA1 statute specifies these services may be provided only to “eligible households,” meaning the household must meet all ERA1 eligibility requirements. When housing stability services represent the only ERA1 assistance a household will receive (i.e., no payments using ERA1 funds will be made either to the household, to the landlord, or to a utility provider), grantees are encouraged to rely on a household’s self-attestations for purposes of confirming eligibility. If all eligibility requirements are expressly addressed by the household’s self-attestation, the grantee is not required to collect additional income documentation, past due notices, or other eligibility-verification documents as described above or below. Further, the ERA2 statute does not restrict the provision of housing stability services to “eligible households.” As a result, grantees are not required to document a household’s eligibility if the grantee provides the household with no assistance other than housing stability services paid with ERA2 funds. However, for both ERA1 and ERA2, a grantee must collect any demographic or other information from the household needed to fulfill the grantee’s reporting obligations.

In all cases, grantees must document their policies and procedures for determining a household’s eligibility to include policies and procedures for determining the prioritization of households in compliance with the statute and maintain records of their determinations. Grantees must also have controls in place to ensure compliance with their policies and procedures and prevent fraud. Grantees must specify in their policies and procedures under what circumstances they will accept written attestations from the applicant without further documentation to determine any aspect of eligibility or the amount of assistance, and in such cases, grantees must have in place reasonable validation or fraud-prevention procedures to prevent abuse.

2 As of the date of these FAQs, the definition of “low-income families” in 42 U.S.C. 1437a(b) is “those families whose incomes do not exceed 80 per centum of the median income for the area, as determined by the Secretary [of Housing and Urban Development] with adjustments for smaller and larger families, except that the Secretary may establish income ceilings higher or lower than 80 per centum of the median for the area on the basis of the Secretary’s findings that such variations are necessary because of prevailing levels of construction costs or unusually high or low family incomes.”

Updated on July 6, 2022

Updated on May 7, 2021

2. How should applicants document that a member of the household has qualified for unemployment benefits, experienced a reduction in income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due to the COVID-19 outbreak?

A grantee must document that one or more members of the applicant’s household either (i) qualified for unemployment benefits; or (ii) (a) for ERA1, experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the COVID-19 outbreak or (b) for ERA2, experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic. 3 If the grantee is relying on clause (i) for this determination, or if the grantee is relying on clause (ii) in ERA2, the grantee is permitted to rely on either a written attestation signed by the applicant or other relevant documentation regarding the household member’s qualification for unemployment benefits. If the grantee is relying on clause (ii) for this determination in ERA1, the statute requires the grantee to obtain a written attestation signed by the applicant that one or more members of the household meets this condition.

While grantees relying on clause (ii) in ERA1 must show financial hardship “due, directly or indirectly, to” COVID-19, grantees in ERA2 are also permitted to rely on financial hardship “during” the pandemic. It may be difficult for some grantees to establish whether a financial hardship experienced during the pandemic is due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Therefore, Treasury strongly encourages grantees to rely on the self-certification of applicants with regard to whether their financial hardship meets these statutory eligibility requirements. Further, because the standard in ERA2 is broader than the standard in ERA1, any applicant that self-certifies that it meets the standard in ERA1 should be considered to meet the standard for purposes of ERA2.

3 Treasury is interpreting the two different statutory terms (“the COVID-19 outbreak” and “the coronavirus pandemic”) as having the same meaning.

3. How should a grantee determine that an individual within a household is at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability?

The statutes establishing ERA1 and ERA2 both require that one or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Such a demonstration may include (i) a past due utility or rent notice or eviction notice, (ii) unsafe or unhealthy living conditions (which may include overcrowding), or (iii) any other evidence of risk, as determined by the grantee. Grantees may establish alternative criteria for determining whether a household satisfies this requirement, and should adopt policies and procedures addressing how they will determine the presence of unsafe or unhealthy living conditions and what evidence of risk to accept in order to support their determination that a household satisfies this requirement. A grantee may rely on an applicant’s self-certification identifying the applicable risk factor or factors, without further documentation, if other documentation is not immediately available.

Updated on August 25, 2021

4. The statutes establishing ERA1 and ERA2 limit eligibility to households based on certain income criteria. How is household income defined for purposes of the ERA? How will income be documented and verified?

Definition of Income : With respect to each household applying for assistance, grantees may choose between using the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) definition of “annual income” in 24 CFR 5.609  and using adjusted gross income as defined for purposes of reporting under Internal Revenue Service Form 1040 series for individual federal annual income tax purposes.

Definition of Area Median Income : For purposes of ERA1, the area median income for a household is the same as the income limits for families published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)(2), available under the heading for “Access Individual Income Limits Areas” . When determining area median income with respect to Tribal members, Tribal governments and TDHEs may rely on the methodology authorized by HUD for the Indian Housing Block Grant Program as it pertains to households residing in an Indian area comprising multiple counties (see HUD Office of Native American Programs, Program Guidance No. 2021-01, June 22, 2021).

Methods for Income Determination : The statute establishing ERA1 provides that grantees may determine income eligibility based on either (i) the household’s total income for calendar year 2020, or (ii) sufficient confirmation of the household’s monthly income at the time of application, as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary).

If a grantee in ERA1 uses a household’s monthly income to determine eligibility, the grantee should review the monthly income information provided at the time of application and extrapolate over a 12-month period to determine whether household income exceeds 80 percent of area median income. For example, if the applicant provides income information for two months, the grantee should multiply it by six to determine the annual amount. If a household qualifies based on monthly income, the grantee must redetermine the household income eligibility every three months for the duration of assistance.

For ERA2, if a grantee uses the same income determination methodology that it used in ERA1, it is presumed to be in compliance with relevant program requirements; if a grantee chooses to use a different methodology for ERA2 than it used for ERA1, the methodology should be reasonable and consistent with all applicable ERA2 requirements. In addition, if a household is a single family that the grantee determined met the income requirement for eligibility under ERA1, the grantee may consider the household to be eligible under ERA2, unless the grantee becomes aware of any reason the household does not meet the requirements for ERA2. Finally, if multiple families from the same household receive funding under an ERA2 program, the grantee should ensure that there is no duplication of the assistance provided.

Documentation of Income Determination : Grantees in ERA1 and ERA2 must have a reasonable basis under the circumstances for determining income. A grantee may support its determination with both a written attestation from the applicant as to household income and also documentation available to the applicant, such as paystubs, W-2s or other wage statements, tax filings, bank statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation from an employer. In appropriate cases, grantees may rely on an attestation from a caseworker or other professional with knowledge of a household’s circumstances to certify that an applicant’s household income qualifies for assistance.

Alternatively, a grantee may rely on a written attestation without further documentation of household income from the applicant under three approaches:

• Self-attestation Alone – Provided that a grantee’s policies and procedures permitted the use of self-attestation alone to establish income as of May 11, 2023, the grantee may rely on a self-attestation of household income without further verification if the applicant confirms in their application or other document that they are unable to provide documentation of their income. If a written attestation without further verification is relied on to document the majority of the applicant’s income, the grantee must reassess the household’s income every three months, by obtaining appropriate documentation or a new self-attestation. Income attestations should specify the monthly or annual income claimed by the household to ensure that the household meets the applicable ERA requirements and to enable appropriate reporting. Under this approach, grantees are encouraged to incorporate self-attestation to demonstrate income eligibility into their application form. Similarly, grantees may rely on self-attestations to demonstrate applicants’ financial hardship and risk of homelessness or housing instability as described above in FAQs 2 and 3 above. Thus, grantees may allow for self-attestation for income eligibility as specified above and are encouraged to allow self-attestation to demonstrate applicants’ financial hardship and risk of homelessness or housing instability as described above in FAQs 2 and 3 .
• Categorical Eligibility – If an applicant’s household income has been verified to be at or below 80 percent of the area median income (for ERA1) or if an applicant’s household has been verified as a low-income family as defined in section 3(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)) (for ERA2) in connection with another local, state, or federal government assistance program, grantees are permitted to rely on a determination letter from the government agency that verified the applicant’s household income or status as a low-income family, provided that the determination for such program was made on or after January 1, 2020.
• Fact-specific proxy  –  A grantee may rely on a written attestation from the applicant as to household income if the grantee also uses any reasonable fact-specific proxy for household income, such as reliance on data regarding average incomes in the household’s geographic area. 

Grantees also have discretion to provide waivers or exceptions to this documentation requirement to accommodate disabilities, extenuating circumstances related to the pandemic, or a lack of technological access. In these cases, the grantee is still responsible for making the required determination regarding the applicant’s household income and documenting that determination. Treasury encourages grantees to partner with state unemployment departments or entities that administer federal benefits with income requirements to assist with the verification process, consistent with applicable law.

Updated on May 10, 2023

5. ERA funds may be used for rent and rental arrears. How should a grantee document where an applicant resides and the amount of rent or rental arrears owed?

Grantees must obtain, if available, a current lease, signed by the applicant and the landlord or sublessor, that identifies the unit where the applicant resides and establishes the rental payment amount. If a household does not have a signed lease, documentation of residence may include evidence of paying utilities for the residential unit, an attestation by a landlord who can be identified as the verified owner or management agent of the unit, or other reasonable documentation as determined by the grantee. In the absence of a signed lease, evidence of the amount of a rental payment may include bank statements, check stubs, or other documentation that reasonably establishes a pattern of paying rent, a written attestation by a landlord who can be verified as the legitimate owner or management agent of the unit, or other reasonable documentation as defined by the grantee in its policies and procedures.

Written Attestation : If an applicant is able to provide satisfactory evidence of residence but is unable to present adequate documentation of the amount of the rental obligation, grantees may accept a written attestation from the applicant to support the payment of assistance up to a monthly maximum of 100 percent of the greater of the Fair Market Rent or the Small Area Fair Market Rent for the area in which the applicant resides, as most recently determined by HUD and made available at https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/fmr.html . In this case, the applicant must also attest that the household has not received, and does not anticipate receiving, another source of public or private subsidy or assistance for the rental costs that are the subject of the attestation. This limited payment is intended to provide the most vulnerable households the opportunity to gather additional documentation of the amount of the rental obligation or to negotiate with landlords in order to avoid eviction. The assistance described in this paragraph may only be provided for three months at a time, and a grantee must obtain evidence of rent owed consistent with the above after three months in order to provide further assistance to such a household; Treasury expects that in most cases the household would be able to provide documentation of the amount of the rental obligation in any applications for further assistance.

6. ERA funds may be used for “utilities and home energy costs” and “utilities and home energy costs arrears.” How are those terms defined and how should those costs be documented?

Utilities and home energy costs are separately stated charges related to the occupancy of rental property. Accordingly, utilities and home energy costs include separately stated electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash removal, and energy costs, such as fuel oil. Payments to public utilities are permitted.

All payments for utilities and home energy costs should be supported by a bill, invoice, or evidence of payment to the provider of the utility or home energy service.

Utilities and home energy costs that are covered by the landlord will be treated as rent.

7. The statutes establishing ERA1 and ERA2 allow the funds to be used for certain "other expenses," as defined by the Secretary. What are some examples of these "other expenses"?

Under the statute establishing ERA1, funds used for “other expenses” must be related to housing and “incurred due, directly or indirectly, to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.” In contrast, the statute establishing ERA2 requires that “other expenses” be “related to housing” but does not require that they be incurred due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

For both ERA1 and ERA2, other expenses related to housing include relocation expenses (including prospective relocation expenses), such as rental security deposits, and rental fees, which may include application or screening fees. It can also include reasonable accrued late fees (if not included in rental or utility arrears), and Internet service provided to the rental unit. Internet service provided to a residence is related to housing and is in many cases a vital service that allows renters to engage in distance learning, telework, and telemedicine and obtain government services. However, given that coverage of Internet would reduce the amount of funds available for rental assistance, grantees should adopt policies that govern in what circumstances that they will determine that covering this cost would be appropriate. In addition, rent or rental bonds, where a tenant posts a bond with a court as a condition to obtaining a hearing, reopening an eviction action, appealing an order of eviction, reinstating a lease, or otherwise avoiding an eviction order, may also be considered an eligible expense.

All payments for housing-related expenses must be supported by documentary evidence such as a bill, invoice, or evidence of payment to the provider of the service. If a housing-related expense is included in a bundle or an invoice that is not itemized (for example, internet services bundled together with telephone and cable television services) and obtaining an itemized invoice would be unduly burdensome, grantees may establish and apply reasonable procedures for determining the portion of the expense that is appropriate to be covered by ERA. As discussed in FAQ 26 , under certain circumstances, the cost of a hotel stay may also be covered as an “other expense.”

Updated on March 16, 2021

8. Must a beneficiary of the rental assistance program have rental arrears?

No. The statutes establishing ERA1 and ERA2 permit the enrollment of households for only prospective benefits. For ERA1, if an applicant has rental arrears, the grantee may not make commitments for prospective rent payments unless it has also provided assistance to reduce the rental arrears; this requirement does not apply to ERA2.

9. May a grantee provide assistance for arrears that have accrued before the date of enactment of the statute?

Yes, but not for arrears accrued before March 13, 2020, the date of the emergency declaration pursuant to section 501(b) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5191(b).

10. Is there a limit on how many months of financial assistance a tenant can receive?

Yes. In ERA1, an eligible household may receive up to twelve (12) months of assistance (plus an additional three (3) months if necessary to ensure housing stability for the household, subject to the availability of funds). The aggregate amount of financial assistance an eligible household may receive under ERA2, when combined with financial assistance under ERA1, must not exceed 18 months.

In ERA1, financial assistance for prospective rent payments is limited to three months based on any application by or on behalf of the household, except that the household may receive assistance for prospective rent payments for additional months (i) subject to the availability of remaining funds currently allocated to the grantee, and (ii) based on a subsequent application for additional assistance. In no case may an eligible household receive more than 18 months of assistance under ERA1 and ERA2, combined.

11. Must a grantee pay for all of a household’s rental or utility arrears?

No. The full payment of arrears is allowed up to the limits established by the statutes, as described in FAQ 10 . A grantee may structure a program to provide less than full coverage of arrears. Grantees are encouraged to consider whether payments of less than the full amount of arrears may result in a significant disincentive for landlord participation in the ERA program. Moreover, consistent with FAQ 32 , grantees should consider methods for avoiding evictions for nonpayment or utility cutoffs in cases where arrearages are paid only in part.

12. What outreach should be made by a grantee to a landlord or utility provider before determining that the landlord or utility provider will not accept direct payment from the grantee?

Treasury expects that in general, rental and utility assistance can be provided most effectively and efficiently when the landlord or utility provider participates in the program. However, in cases where a landlord or utility provider does not participate in the program, the only way to achieve the statutory purpose is to provide assistance directly to the eligible household.

In ERA1, grantees must make reasonable efforts to obtain the cooperation of landlords and utility providers to accept payments from the ERA program. Outreach will be considered complete if (i) a request for participation is sent in writing, by mail, to the landlord or utility provider, and the addressee does not respond to the request within seven calendar days after mailing; (ii) the grantee has made at least three attempts by phone, text, or e-mail over a five calendar-day period to request the landlord or utility provider’s participation; or (iii) a landlord confirms in writing that the landlord does not wish to participate. The final outreach attempt or notice to the landlord must be documented. The cost of contacting landlords would be an eligible administrative cost.

ERA2 does not require grantees to seek the cooperation of the landlord or utility provider before providing assistance directly to the tenant. However, if an ERA2 grantee chooses to seek the cooperation of landlords or utility providers before providing assistance directly to tenants, Treasury strongly encourages the grantee to apply the same ERA1 requirements as described above.

13. Is there a requirement that the eligible household have been in its current rental home when the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19 was declared?

No. There is no requirement regarding the length of tenure in the current unit.

14. What data should a grantee collect regarding households to which it provides rental assistance in order to comply with Treasury’s reporting and recordkeeping requirements?

Treasury provided interim guidance to ERA1 grantees regarding reporting requirements covering the period January through May 2021. The interim guidance required grantees to report limited data elements for the first quarter of 2021, as well as monthly for April to August. A grantee’s failure to submit required reports to Treasury on a timely basis may constitute a violation of the ERA award terms.

Treasury has provided grantees with additional guidance regarding quarterly reporting requirements. Grantees are required to submit reports in accordance with the additional guidance beginning with the first quarter of 2021 for ERA1 and the second quarter of 2021 for ERA2, with the first reports under the additional guidance being due in October 2021.

ERA1 grantees will be required to submit monthly reports from September to December 2021, which will be consistent with monthly reports that were previously required for April to August.

Treasury’s Office of Inspector General may require the collection of additional information in order to fulfill its oversight and monitoring requirements. 6 Grantees under ERA1 must comply with the requirement in section 501(g)(4) of Division N of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, to establish data privacy and security requirements for information they collect; grantees under ERA2 are also encouraged to comply with those requirements. 7

The assistance listing number assigned to the ERA is 21.023.

6 Note that this FAQ is not intended to address all reporting requirements that will apply to the ERA but rather to note for grantees information that they should anticipate needing to collect from households with respect to the provision of rental assistance.

7 Specifically, the statute establishing ERA1 requires grantees to establish data privacy and security requirements for certain information regarding applicants that (i) include appropriate measures to ensure that the privacy of the individuals and households is protected; (ii) provide that the information, including any personally identifiable information, is collected and used only for the purpose of submitting reports to Treasury; and (iii) provide confidentiality protections for data collected about any individuals who are survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

Updated on June 24, 2021

15. The statute establishing ERA1 requires that payments not be duplicative of any other federally funded rental assistance provided to an eligible household. Are tenants of federally subsidized housing, e.g., Low Income Housing Credit, Public Housing, or Indian Housing Block Grant-assisted properties, eligible for the ERA?

An eligible household that occupies a federally subsidized residential or mixed-use property or receives federal rental assistance may receive assistance in the ERA, provided that ERA1 funds are not applied to costs that have been or will be reimbursed under any other federal assistance. Grantees are required to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act (which prohibits discrimination on the ground of race, color, or national origin in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (which prohibits discrimination because of disability in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance), and should evaluate whether their policies and practices regarding assistance to households that occupy federally subsidized residential or mixed-use properties or receive federal rental assistance comply with Title VI and Section 504. In addition, grantees are required to comply with the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing because of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), religion, disability, and having, expecting, adopting, or fostering a child under the age of 18. With respect to ERA2, grantees must not refuse to provide assistance to households on the basis that they occupy such properties or receive such assistance, due to the disproportionate effect such a refusal could have on populations intended to receive assistance under the ERA and the potential for such a practice to violate applicable law, including Title VI, Section 504, and the Fair Housing Act.

If an eligible household participates in a HUD-assisted rental program or lives in certain federally assisted properties (e.g., using a Housing Choice Voucher, Public Housing, or Project-Based Rental Assistance) and the tenant rent is adjusted according to changes in income, the renter household may receive ERA1 assistance for the tenant-owed portion of rent or utilities that is not subsidized. Grantees are encouraged to confirm that the participant has already reported any income loss or financial hardship to the Public Housing Authority or property manager and completed an interim re-examination before assistance is provided.

Treasury encourages grantees to enter into partnerships with owners of federally subsidized housing to implement methods of meeting the statutory requirement to prioritize assistance to households with income that does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income for the household, or where one or more individuals within the household are unemployed as of the date of the application for assistance and have not been employed for the 90-day period preceding such date.

Pursuant to section 501(k)(3)(B) of Division N of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and 2 CFR 200.403, when providing ERA1 assistance, the grantee must review the household’s income and sources of assistance to confirm that the ERA1 assistance does not duplicate any other assistance, including federal, state, or local assistance provided for the same costs.

Grantees may rely on an attestation from the applicant regarding non-duplication with other government assistance in providing assistance to a household. Grantees with overlapping or contiguous jurisdictions are particularly encouraged to coordinate and participate in joint administrative solutions to meet this requirement. The requirement described in this paragraph does not apply to ERA2; however, to maximize program efficacy, Treasury encourages grantees to minimize the provision of duplicative assistance.

16. In ERA1, may a Tribe or Tribally Designated Housing Entity (TDHE) provide assistance to Tribal members living outside Tribal lands?

Yes. Tribal members living outside Tribal lands may receive ERA1 funds from their Tribe or TDHE, provided they are not already receiving ERA assistance from another Tribe or TDHE, state, or local government.

17. In ERA1, may a Tribe or TDHE provide assistance to non-Tribal members living on Tribal lands?

Yes. A Tribe or TDHE may provide ERA1 funds to non-Tribal members living on Tribal lands, provided these individuals are not already receiving ERA assistance from another Tribe or TDHE, state, or local government.

18. May a grantee provide assistance to households for which the grantee is the landlord?

Yes. A grantee may provide assistance to households for which the grantee is the landlord, provided that the grantee complies with the all provisions of the statute establishing ERA1 or ERA2, as applicable, the award terms, and applicable ERA guidance issued by Treasury, and that no preferences (beyond the prioritization described in FAQ 22 ) are given to households that reside in the grantee’s own properties.

19. May a grantee provide assistance to a renter household with respect to utility or energy costs without also covering rent?

Yes. A grantee is not required to provide assistance with respect to rent in order to provide assistance with respect to utility or energy costs. For ERA1, the limitations in section 501(c)(2)(B) of Division N of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, limiting assistance for prospective rent payments do not apply to the provision of utilities or home energy costs.

20. May a grantee provide ERA assistance to homeowners to cover their mortgage, utility, or energy costs?

No. ERA assistance may be provided only to eligible households, which is defined by statute to include only households that are obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling. However, homeowners may be eligible for assistance under programs using funds under the Homeowner Assistance Fund, which was established by Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

21. May grantees administer ERA programs by using contractors, subrecipients, or intergovernmental cooperation agreements?

Yes. Grantees may use ERA payments to make subawards to other entities, including non-profit organizations and local governments, to administer ERA programs on behalf of the grantees. The subrecipient monitoring and management requirements set forth in 2 CFR 200.331-200.333 will apply to such entities. Grantees may also enter into contracts using ERA payments for goods or services to implement ERA programs. Grantees must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.317-200.327 in entering into such contracts. Grantees are encouraged to achieve administrative efficiency and fiduciary responsibility by collaborating with other grantees in joint administrative solutions to deploying ERA resources.

22. ERA requires a prioritization of assistance for households with incomes less than 50 percent of area median income or households with one or more individuals that have not been employed for the 90-day period preceding the date of application. How should grantees prioritize assistance?

Grantees should establish a preference system for assistance that prioritizes assistance to households with incomes less than 50 percent area median income 8 and to households with one or more members that have been unemployed for at least 90 days. Grantees should document the preference system they plan to use and should inform all applicants about available preferences.

Treasury will require grantees to report to Treasury on the methods they have established to implement this prioritization of assistance and to publicly post a description of their prioritization methods, including on their program web page if one exists, by July 15, 2021.

8 For the definition of area median income, see FAQ 4 .

23. ERA1 and ERA2 both allow for up to 10 percent of the funds received by a grantee to be used for certain housing stability services. What are some examples of these services?

ERA1 and ERA2 have different requirements for housing stability services.

Under ERA1, these funds may be used to provide eligible households with case management and other services related to the COVID-19 outbreak, as defined by the Secretary, intended to help keep households stably housed.

Under ERA2, these services do not have to be related to the COVID-19 outbreak and the ERA2 statute does not restrict the provision of housing stability services to “eligible households.

For purposes of ERA1 and ERA2, housing stability services include those that enable households to maintain or obtain housing. Such services may include, among other things, eviction prevention and eviction diversion programs; mediation between landlords and tenants; housing counseling; fair housing counseling; housing navigators or promotoras that help households access ERA programs or find housing; case management related to housing stability; housing-related services for survivors of domestic abuse or human trafficking; legal services or attorney’s fees related to eviction proceedings and maintaining housing stability; and specialized services for individuals with disabilities or seniors that support their ability to access or maintain housing. Grantees using ERA funds for housing stability services must maintain records regarding such services and the amount of funds provided to them.

24. Are grantees required to remit interest earned on ERA payments made by Treasury?

No. ERA payments made by Treasury to states, territories, and the District of Columbia are not subject to the requirement of the Cash Management Improvement Act and Treasury’s implementing regulations at 31 CFR part 205 to remit interest to Treasury. ERA payments made by Treasury to local governments, Tribes, and TDHEs are not subject to the requirement of 2 CFR 200.305(b)(8)-(9) to maintain balances in an interest-bearing account and remit payments to Treasury.

25. When may Treasury recoup ERA funds from a grantee?

Treasury may recoup ERA funds from a grantee if the grantee does not comply with the applicable limitations on the use of those funds.

26. May rental assistance be provided to temporarily displaced households living in hotels or motels?

Yes. The cost of a hotel or motel room occupied by an eligible household may be covered using ERA assistance within the category of certain “other expenses related to housing” (as described in FAQ 7 ) provided that:

• the household has been temporarily or permanently displaced from its primary residence or does not have a permanent residence elsewhere;
• the total months of assistance provided to the household do not exceed the applicable time limit described in FAQ 10 ; and
• documentation of the hotel or motel stay is provided and the other applicable requirements provided in the statute and these FAQs are met.

The cost of the hotel or motel stay would not include expenses incidental to the charge for the room.

Grantees covering the cost of such stays must develop policies and procedures detailing under what circumstances they would provide assistance to cover such stays. In doing so, grantees should consider the cost effectiveness of offering assistance for this purpose as compared to other uses. If a household is eligible for an existing program with narrower eligibility criteria that can provide similar assistance for hotel or motel stays, such as the HUD Emergency Solutions Grant program or FEMA Public Assistance, grantees should utilize such programs prior to providing similar assistance under the ERA program.

27. May a renter subject to a "rent-to-own" agreement with a landlord be eligible for ERA assistance?

A grantee may provide financial assistance to households that are renting their residence under a “rent-to-own” agreement, under which the renter has the option (or obligation) to purchase the property at the end of the lease term, provided that a member of his or her household:

• is not a signor or co-signor to the mortgage on the property;
• does not hold the deed or title to the property; and
• has not exercised the option to purchase.

Homeowners may be eligible for assistance under programs using funds under the Homeowner Assistance Fund, which was established by Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

28. Under what circumstances may households living in manufactured housing (mobile homes) receive assistance?

Rental payments for either the manufactured home or the parcel of land the manufactured home occupies are eligible for financial assistance under ERA programs. Households renting manufactured housing or the parcel of land the manufactured home occupies may also receive assistance for utilities and other expenses related to housing, as detailed in FAQ 7 above. This principle also applies to mooring fees for water-based dwellings (houseboats).

29. What are the applicable limitations on administrative expenses?

Under ERA1, not more than 10 percent of the amount paid to a grantee may be used for administrative costs attributable to providing financial assistance and housing stability services to eligible households. Under ERA2, not more than 15 percent of the amount paid to a grantee may be used for administrative costs attributable to providing financial assistance, housing stability services, and other affordable rental housing and eviction prevention activities.

The revised award term for ERA1 issued by Treasury permits recipients to use funds provided to cover both direct and indirect costs. A grantee may permit a subrecipient to incur more than 10 or 15 percent, as applicable, of the amount of the subaward issued to that subrecipient as long as the total of all administrative costs incurred by the grantee and all subrecipients, whether as direct or indirect costs, does not exceed 10 or 15 percent, as applicable, of the total amount of the award provided to the grantee from Treasury.

Further, the revised award term for ERA1 no longer requires grantees to deduct administrative costs charged to the award from the amount available for housing stability services. Rather, any direct and indirect administrative costs in ERA1 or ERA2 must be allocated by the grantee to either the provision of financial assistance or the provision of housing stability services. As required by the applicable statutes, not more than 10 percent of funds received by a grantee may be used to provide eligible households with housing stability services (discussed in FAQ 23 . To the extent administrative costs are not readily allocable to one or the other of these categories, the grantee may assume an allocation of the relevant costs of 90 percent to financial assistance and 10 percent to housing stability services.

Grantees may apply their negotiated indirect cost rate to the award, but only to the extent that the total of the amount charged pursuant to that rate and the amount of direct costs charged to the award does not exceed 10 percent of the amount of the award.

Updated on March 26, 2021

30. Should grantees provide tenants the option to apply directly for ERA assistance, rather than only accepting applications for assistance from landlords and owners of dwellings?

For ERA1, Treasury strongly encourages grantees to provide an option for tenants to apply directly for funding, rather than only accepting applications for assistance from landlords and owners of dwellings. For ERA2, grantees are required to allow tenants to apply directly for assistance, even if the landlord or owner chooses not to participate, consistent with the statutory requirement for the funds to be used to provide financial assistance to eligible households.

See FAQ 12 for additional information on grantees providing assistance to landlords and tenants.

Added on May 7, 2021

31. How should grantees ensure that recipients use ERA funds only for permissible purposes?

Grantees should require recipients of funds under ERA programs, including tenants and landlords, to commit in writing to use ERA assistance only for the intended purpose before issuing a payment. Grantees are not required to obtain documentation evidencing the use of ERA program funds by tenants and landlords. Grantees are expected to apply reasonable fraud- prevention procedures and to investigate and address potential instances of fraud or the misuse of funds that they become aware of.

There may be instances when a landlord refuses to accept a payment from a tenant who has received assistance directly from a grantee for the purpose of paying the landlord. In these cases, the grantee may allow the tenant to use the assistance for other eligible costs in accordance with the terms of the grantee’s ERA programs.

32. Can grantees prohibit landlords from pursuing eviction for nonpayment of rent for some period after receiving ERA assistance?

With respect to landlords that receive funds under an ERA program for prospective rent or for rental arrearages, the grantee must prohibit the landlord from evicting the tenant for nonpayment of rent with respect to the period covered by the assistance.

In addition, with respect to landlords that receive funds for rental arrears, to promote the purpose of the program the grantee is encouraged to prohibit the landlord from evicting the tenant for nonpayment of rent for some period of time, consistent with applicable law.

In all cases, Treasury strongly encourages grantees to require landlords that receive funds under the ERA, as a condition of receiving the funds, not to evict tenants for nonpayment of rent for 30 to 90 days longer than the period covered by the rental assistance.

33. How can grantees work with other grantees to make their ERA programs consistent?

Treasury encourages grantees with overlapping or contiguous jurisdictions to collaborate to develop consistent or complementary terms of their ERA programs and to coordinate in their communications with the public, to minimize potential confusion among tenants and landlords regarding assistance. Treasury also encourages grantees to reduce burdens for entities seeking assistance from multiple grantees across different jurisdictions, including utility providers and landlords with properties in multiple jurisdictions.

34. Should a grantee require that a landlord initiate an eviction proceeding in order to apply for assistance under an ERA program?

35. how can era assistance be used to support an eligible household moving to a new home.

ERA funds may be used to provide assistance to eligible households to cover prospective relocation assistance, rent, and utility or home energy costs, including after an eviction. Treasury encourages grantees to provide prospective support to help ensure housing stability. See FAQ 7 (regarding qualifying relocation expenses) and FAQ 10 (regarding time limits on assistance).

Before moving into a new residence, a tenant may not yet have a rental obligation, as required by the statutes establishing ERA1 and ERA2. In those cases, Treasury encourages grantees to provide otherwise eligible households with an official document specifying the amount of financial assistance under ERA programs that the grantee will pay a landlord on behalf of the household (such as for a security deposit or rent) if the landlord and the household enter into a qualifying lease of at least six months. Such documentation may expire after a certain period, such as 60 to 120 days after the issuance date. Treasury encourages grantees to work with providers of housing stability services to help these households identify housing that meets their needs. For purposes of reporting to Treasury, grantees may consider these commitments to be an obligation of funding until their expiration.

36. What steps can ERA grantees take to prevent evictions for nonpayment of rent?

Treasury strongly encourages grantees to develop partnerships with courts in their jurisdiction that adjudicate evictions for nonpayment of rent to help prevent evictions and develop eviction diversion programs. For example, grantees should consider: (1) providing information to judges, magistrates, court clerks, and other relevant court officials about the availability of assistance under ERA programs and housing stability services; (2) working with eviction courts to provide information about assistance under ERA programs to tenants and landlords as early in the adjudication process as possible; and (3) engaging providers of legal services and other housing stability services to assist households against which an eviction action for nonpayment of rent has been filed.

Added on June 24, 2021

37. How can grantees promote access to assistance for all eligible households?

Grantees should address barriers that potentially eligible households may experience in accessing ERA programs, including by providing program documents in multiple languages, by enabling persons with disabilities to access the programs, and by conducting targeted outreach to populations with disproportionately high levels of unemployment or housing instability or that are low income.

Grantees should also provide, either directly or through partner organizations, culturally and linguistically relevant outreach and housing stability services to ensure access to assistance for all eligible households.

In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) ERA grantees must ensure they provide meaningful access to their limited-English-proficiency (LEP) applicants and beneficiaries of their federally assisted programs, services, and activities. Denial of an LEP person’s access to federally assisted programs, services, and activities is a form of national-origin discrimination prohibited under Title VI and Treasury’s Title VI implementing regulations at 31 CFR Part 22. Meaningful access for an LEP person may entail providing language assistance services, including oral interpretation and written translation where necessary, to ensure effective communication regarding the ERA grantee’s programs, services, and activities. For more information regarding reasonable steps to provide meaningful access for LEP persons, please go to https://www.lep.gov and the ERA programs’ Promising Practices. See also Treasury’s published LEP guidance at 70 FR 6067 (Feb. 4, 2005).

38. May grantees obtain information in bulk from utility providers and landlords with multiple units regarding the eligibility of multiple tenants, or bundle assistance payments for the benefit of multiple tenants in a single payment to a utility provider or landlord?

Data-sharing agreements between grantees and utility providers or landlords with multiple units may reduce administrative burdens and enhance program integrity by providing information to validate tenant-provided information. Therefore, grantees may establish prudent information sharing arrangements with utility providers and landlords for determining household eligibility. Grantees may also establish reasonable procedures for combining the assistance provided for multiple households into a single “bulk” payment made to a utility or landlord. Grantees should ensure that any such arrangements (1) comply with applicable privacy requirements; (2) include appropriate safeguards to ensure payments are made only for eligible households; and (3) are documented in records satisfying the grantee’s reporting requirements, including, for example, the amount of assistance paid for each household.”

In addition, to speed the delivery of assistance, grantees may adopt policies and procedures enabling landlords and utility providers to receive assistance based on reasonable estimates of arrears owed by multiple households, before their application and documentation requirements are satisfied. Specifically, a grantee may provide for payments based on such estimates if (1) the landlord or utility provider certifies that its estimate is reasonable based on information available to it at the time, (2) the grantee requires the landlord or utility provider to collect all required documentation from recipient households  within six months, and (3) the landlord or utility provider agrees in writing to return to the grantee any assistance the landlord or utility provider receives that the household was ineligible for or for which the required documentation is not received within six months. Grantees are encouraged to limit such payments to a portion of the landlord’s or utility provider’s estimate (for example, 50 or 75 percent of the estimated amount) to limit the risk of providing funds that are used for an ineligible purpose and subsequently must be returned. If an estimated payment is subsequently found to have been used for an ineligible household or an ineligible expense, or if the required documentation is not timely submitted, the payment will be considered an ineligible use of ERA funds by the grantee.

In the case of a bulk utility payment made in accordance with this FAQ, a grantee may provide a utility provider up to nine months from the time the bulk payment was made to satisfy all documentation requirements if a moratorium preventing the shut-off of utilities was in effect in the grantee’s jurisdiction for at least one of the six months following the payment.

39. If ERA program funds are used for a security deposit for a lease, to whom should the landlord return the security deposit at the end of the lease?

Grantees should establish a policy with regard to the payment and disposition of security deposits, which should include a reasonable limit on the amount of a security deposit to be paid using ERA program funds. The amount of a security deposit should not exceed one month’s rent, except in cases where a higher amount is reasonable and customary in the local housing market. The treatment of security deposits is generally subject to applicable law and the rental agreement. In order to mitigate risks associated with the use of ERA program funds for security deposits, grantees should establish a minimum rental period, not less than four months, before a tenant is entitled to receive a returned security deposit that was paid for with ERA funds. To the extent that the security deposit is not returned to the tenant, it should be returned to the grantee.

40. May ERA assistance be used for rental or utility arrears after the tenant no longer resides in the unit?

In order to remove barriers a household may face in accessing new housing, a grantee may, at the tenant’s request, provide assistance for rental or utility arrears after an otherwise eligible tenant has vacated a unit. In addition to not engaging in further collection efforts regarding the arrears that are paid or related fees or expenses, as a condition to receiving payment, Treasury strongly encourages grantees to require the landlord or utility provider to agree not to pursue any further collection efforts against the household and ensure that any reports to credit agencies will confirm the matter’s resolution. In addition, grantees may consider requiring the landlord or utility provider to notify the tenant that payment has been received and that there will be no further collection efforts.

Added on August 25, 2021

41. May a grantee provide additional payments to landlords that enter into leases with eligible households experiencing circumstances that make it more difficult to secure rental housing?

Grantees may use ERA funds to pay for an additional rental payment required by a landlord as a condition to entering into a lease with a “hard-to-house” household that would not qualify under the landlord’s previously established, non-discriminatory, and lawful screening or occupancy policies. “Hard-to-house” applicants are those who, during the preceding 12 months, suffered an eviction; aged out of foster care or similar arrangements; were convicted of a criminal offense or released from incarceration; or experienced homelessness. The additional payment must be documented in the written lease agreement as additional rent and may not, in the aggregate, exceed one month’s rent (excluding the additional payment). Grantees should establish reasonable safeguards to ensure these additional rental payments do not incentivize landlords to adopt more stringent leasing policies and are otherwise compliant with any rent or security deposit restrictions imposed by state or local law.

42. May a grantee provide ERA funds to another entity for the purpose of making payments more rapidly?

To speed the delivery of assistance, grantees may enter into a written agreement with a nonprofit organization to establish a payment fund for the sole purpose of delivering assistance using ERA funds while a household’s application remains in process. A grantee may use such a process if:

• The process is reserved for situations in which an expedited payment could reasonably be viewed as necessary to prevent an eviction or loss of utility services that precludes employing the grantee’s standard application and payment procedures on a timely basis.
• The nonprofit organization has the requisite financial capacity to manage the ERA funds, such as being a certified community development financial institution.
• The nonprofit organization deposits and maintains the ERA funds in a separate account that is not commingled with other funds.
• The grantee receives all required application and eligibility documentation within six months.
• The nonprofit organization agrees in writing to return to the grantee any assistance that the household was ineligible for or for which the required documentation is not received within six months.
• Any funds not used by the nonprofit organization are ultimately returned to the grantee.

If a payment made by the nonprofit organization is subsequently found to have been used for an ineligible household or an ineligible expense, or if the required application and eligibility documentation are not timely submitted, the payment will be considered an ineligible use of ERA funds by the grantee. Any administrative expenses attributable to a payment fund should be considered in accordance with FAQ 29 .

43. Are landlords offered ERA payments subject to source-of-income protection laws?

A landlord’s failure to accept payments made using ERA funding might violate state or local source-of-income protection laws, depending on the jurisdiction’s laws.

Added on July 6, 2022  

44. May ERA grantees impose additional eligibility criteria, including employment or job-training requirements, as a condition of providing ERA assistance to households?

The statutes that authorize the ERA1 and ERA2 programs provide specific criteria for establishing a household’s eligibility. These eligibility requirements include financial hardship, risk of homelessness or housing instability, qualifying income, and an obligation to pay rent. While the statutes authorizing the ERA programs and Treasury’s policy guidance afford grantees discretion in structuring their programs, grantees do not have the authority to augment the ERA eligibility requirements by conditioning assistance on a tenant’s employment status, compliance with work requirements, or acceptance of employment counseling, job-training, or other employment services. To the extent that grantees would impose other eligibility criteria or would require tenants to be employed, accept employment services, or comply with work requirements, such additional requirements are not permissible.

45. If two grantees learn that they both provided rental or utility assistance to a household intended to cover the same months’ expenses, is one grantee required to recover its assistance payments from the household, landlord, or utility provider?

Grantees with overlapping or contiguous jurisdictions are encouraged coordinate to avoid duplicating assistance. However, there may be cases in which a grantee discovers that a household has received ERA assistance from multiple grantees intended to cover the same period of rent, utilities, rental arrears, or utility arrears. In such cases, the grantee may decline to recover its payment and instead recharacterize it as assistance covering a different period of eligible rental or utility expenses, if:

• the grantee documents, in accordance with ERA records requirements, which expenses its funds ultimately covered; and
• the grantee confirms that the household was eligible for all assistance it received, including ensuring that the total number of months of financial assistance received by the household does not exceed statutory limits, as described in FAQ 10.  

For example, if a state grantee and a local grantee both provided assistance to the same household intended to cover rental arrears arising from January and February, either the state grantee or the local grantee could recharacterize its assistance as covering rental arrears arising from March and April, if such grantee documents the rental arrears ultimately covered by its payment and confirms that the household was eligible for assistance with respect to all four months of arrears.

Added on July 6, 2022

46. What are eligible “other affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes” under the statute establishing ERA2?

The statute establishing ERA2 provides that a grantee may use any of its ERA2 funds that are unobligated on October 1, 2022, for “affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes, as defined by the Secretary, serving very low-income families (as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b))).” 1 However, in accordance with the ERA2 statute, prior to obligating any funds for such purposes, the grantee must have obligated at least 75 percent of the total ERA2 funds allocated to it for financial assistance to eligible households, eligible costs for housing stability services, and eligible administrative costs. These requirements are described below. 2

Eligible Uses of ERA2 Funds

Eligible Affordable Rental Housing Purposes. Eligible “affordable rental housing purposes” are expenses 3 for:

• the construction, rehabilitation, or preservation of affordable rental housing projects serving very low-income families;
• the acquisition of real property for the purpose of constructing, rehabilitating, or preserving affordable rental housing projects serving very low-income families;
• predevelopment activities that enable the construction, rehabilitation, or preservation of affordable rental housing projects serving very low-income families, including architectural and engineering design, planning, permitting, surveys, appraisals, and environmental review associated with an eligible project; and
• the operation of affordable rental housing projects serving very low-income families that were constructed, rehabilitated, or preserved using ERA2 funds. 4

For purposes of the definition above, affordable rental housing projects serve very low-income families only if:

• the household income of occupants of units funded by ERA2 funds is limited to the maximum income applicable to very low-income families, as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)); and
• such income limitation is imposed through a covenant, land use restriction agreement (LURA), or other enforceable legal requirement for a period of at least 20 years.

In addition, to be considered an affordable rental housing purpose serving very low-income families, an affordable rental housing project funded, in whole or in part, with ERA2 funds must conform to and meet the program regulations and other requirements of one or more of the types of assistance listed below. In other words, uses of ERA2 funds for an affordable rental housing purpose must be aligned with at least one of the following programs and must meet the requirements of that program along with the other conditions specifically set forth in this FAQ: 5

• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (Treasury);
• HOME Investment Partnerships Program (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD));
• HOME-ARP Program (HUD);
• Housing Trust Fund Program (HUD);
• Public Housing Capital Fund (HUD);
• Indian Housing Block Grant Program (HUD);
• Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly (HUD);
• Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities (HUD);
• Farm Labor Housing Direct Loans and Grants (U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA));
• Multifamily Preservation and Revitalization Program (USDA).

Eligible Eviction Prevention Purposes. Eligible “eviction prevention purposes” are defined in the same manner as housing stability services under FAQ 23; however, services provided with funds made available for eviction prevention purposes must serve very low-income families.

Cost Allocation . Grantees may use ERA2 funds as part of the financing for a mixed-income housing project if the total financing made up of ERA2 award funds does not exceed the total development costs attributable to affordable rental housing units serving very low-income families. 6 For example, if 25 percent of a project’s units will be reserved for very low-income families and 20 percent of the total costs of all housing units in the project are attributable to such reserved units, then ERA2 funds may be used to pay for up to 20 percent of the total development costs.

Form of Provision of Funds and Time of Obligation .  Grantees that use ERA2 funds for an eligible affordable rental housing purpose may provide such funds in the form of loans (including no-interest loans and deferred-payment loans), interest subsidies, grants, or other financial arrangements.  ERA2 funds may not be used to establish, provide financial support to, or invest in revolving loan funds or other structured funds.

Under the ERA2 statute, grantees may obligate funds only until September 30, 2025, and all obligations must be liquidated by the closeout date of the award in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, i.e., no later than 120 calendar days after September 30, 2025. 7 ERA2 funds are considered to be obligated upon the grantee’s approval 8 of the loan, interest subsidy, grant, or other financial arrangement, and such obligations are considered to be liquidated for the purpose of award closeout upon the grantee’s disbursement of the ERA2 funds.  Any proceeds or income a grantee receives after September 30, 2025, from loans, interest subsidies, or other similar financial arrangements made with ERA2 funds must be used for affordable rental housing purposes or eviction prevention purposes in accordance with this FAQ.

Obligation of 75 Percent of Allocated Funds

Treasury will calculate the 75 percent obligation threshold as (i) the total amount of ERA2 funds the grantee has obligated 9 for financial assistance to eligible households, eligible costs for housing stability services, and eligible administrative costs, divided by (ii) the grantee’s total ERA2 allocation, including any amounts reallocated to and excluding any amounts recaptured from the grantee.  For example, if a grantee voluntarily reallocated 50 percent of its total initial ERA2 allocation, and did not experience any other reallocation, it must obligate 75 percent of its post-reallocation amount (or 37.5 percent of its initial ERA2 allocation) to use its remaining ERA2 funds for eligible affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes.  If a grantee reaches the 75 percent threshold after October 1, 2022, it may begin using ERA2 funds for eligible affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes once it reaches the threshold.

Administrative Costs Attributable to Affordable Rental Housing and Eviction Prevention Purposes

The statute establishing ERA2 permits each grantee to use up to 15 percent of the total amount of ERA2 funds paid to it for eligible administrative costs.  Consistent with FAQ 29, any direct and indirect administrative costs must be allocated by the grantee to the provision of financial assistance, housing stability services, or other affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes.  Thus, a grantee’s administrative costs with respect to affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes may be paid with ERA2 funds only in an amount up to 15 percent of the grantee’s expenditures for these purposes.

1  As of the date of this FAQ, the definition of “very low-income families” in 42 U.S.C. 1437a(b) is “low-income families whose incomes do not exceed 50 per centum of the median family income for the area, as determined by the Secretary [of Housing and Urban Development] with adjustments for smaller and larger families, except that the Secretary may establish income ceilings higher or lower than 50 per centum of the median for the area on the basis of the Secretary’s findings that such variations are necessary because of unusually high or low family incomes.”  All references to “very low-income families” in this FAQ incorporate this definition.  The Department of Housing and Urban Development annually updates its calculations relevant to the definition of “very low-income families” at https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html .

2 Treasury’s reporting guidance will address the specific reporting and certification requirements associated with the uses of ERA2 funds described in this FAQ.

3 ERA2 award funds used for affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes will be subject to the applicable requirements set forth in the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), 2 CFR Part 200. Specifically, ERA2 grantees are required to comply with the applicable procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327 when procuring goods and services for these eligible purposes, and the allowability of expenses related to affordable rental housing and eviction prevention purposes will be subject to the Cost Principles set forth in 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart E.

4 Expenses for transitional housing (i.e., any dwelling that is intended to provide temporary housing to formerly homeless persons for a period up to 24 months) or emergency shelters are not considered “affordable rental housing projects” and therefore are not eligible “affordable rental housing purposes.”

5 For purposes of determining whether any expenses constitute affordable rental housing purposes under ERA2, in the event of a direct conflict between ERA2 requirements and requirements of a listed program to which a grantee will conform its affordable rental housing project, ERA2 requirements will prevail with respect to any portion of the project funded by ERA2 funds.  A direct conflict between program requirements occurs only when it is impossible to comply with the requirements of ERA2 and of the other program.  In contrast, if two sets of income or affordability-period requirements apply to the same units, there is no direct conflict; grantees must satisfy both by applying the more stringent requirements.

6  The specific units within a mixed-income housing project subject to the applicable income limitation may vary over time depending on operational needs, provided the units subject to the income limitation at any point do not materially differ from units funded by ERA2 funds.

7  See 2 CFR § 200.344.

8  Such approval occurs at the time of the execution of a written agreement or other legal instrument providing for the disbursement of ERA2 funds.

9  To determine whether a grantee has obligated ERA2 funds, Treasury will rely on the criteria set forth in section II.A of the ERA1 Reallocation Guidance originally published on October 4, 2021 and updated on March 30, 2022, available at https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Updated-ERA1-Reallocation-Guidance%203-30-%202022.pdf .

Updated on March 5, 2024

Added on July 27, 2022

HAVE YOU LOST MEDICAID COVERAGE? More than 80,000 Texans have lost coverage due to technical errors since May 2023. Click to learn more.

• Texas Crime Victims Legal Assistance Network
• Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault
• Texas Disaster Legal Help
• Legal Aid Disaster Resource Center
• National Disaster Legal Aid
• Eviction Defense
• Ways to Give

June 15, 2021 by Clarissa Ayala

Bell county, texas emergency rental assistance program.

Funding is available for Bell County residents for rental payments, utility payments, and household internet expenses, where applicable. 

To participate in the Bell County Emergency Rental Assistance Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a resident of Bell County
• A member of the household must have a valid government issued photo ID
• Must have a financial hardship that was directly tied to the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e. job loss due to closure of business due to COVID-19; layoff due to COVID-19, etc.). The County’s program will make the final determination if your impact was due to COVID-19.
• Eligible tenants are those with household income at or below 80% of the local Area MedianIncome level.
• One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
• Eligible tenants must not have received assistance from another government agency, non-profit or private provider for the month of assistance provided or to be provided. Assistance received from another government agency (including the State’s ERAP program), non-profit or private provider shall not be for rental or utility assistance or duplicate the benefit to be received from Bell County for the same month of assistance.
• Job/employment loss after March 1, 2020 (i.e. provide the most recent TWC statement or statement from the employer on letterhead), or
• Other income loss with documentation (i.e. verified stipend loss, child support, etc.), or
• For determining annual income amount, applicants should provide documents evidencing annual income (e.g. wage statement, interest statement, unemployment compensation statement) or a copy of 2020 Form 1040 as filed with the IRS for the household.
• For determining monthly income, applicants must provide income source documentation, as listed above, for at least the two months prior to the submission of the application for assistance. If an applicant qualifies based on monthly income, the County must re-determine the household income eligibility every three months for the duration of assistance.

The County will provide preference to High Priority Households by restricting the application process to only High Priority households for the first three weeks of the application program. Prior to the end of the first three weeks, County staff will determine if the priority period should be extended beyond the minimum of three weeks based on application volume. 

Applicants may be deemed “High Priority Households” if they document they meet one of the following:

• Household income is below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI) for Bell County; or
• At least one household member (as listed on the lease) is currently unemployed and has been unemployed for at least the ninety days prior to the date of application completion.

All household members age 18 and older must provide current income. Income can be substantiated using one of the following documents: 

• 1040 Tax Return for 2020; 
• 1040 Tax Return transcript for 2020; 
• IRS Form 8879 for 2020; 
• Two consecutive months of check stubs (must be consecutive and current); 
• Form W-2 Wage statement for 2020; 
• Pension statement; 
• Retirement statement; or 
• Monthly social security administration statements (SSI received for a child does not count as income).

Instructions and links to apply can be found on the Hill Country Community Action website ( http://hccaa.com/emergency-disaster/ ). They have offices in both Temple (604 North 3rd Street) and Killeen (304 Priest Drive). For assistance applying, interested Bell County residents can call 254-870-9986 for more information.

If you or someone you know requires help to apply for this aid, you may apply for free legal help with us by visiting www.LoneStarLegal.org and clicking on the red box that says APPLY HERE.  If you do not have access to a computer or prefer to apply by phone, you may call 1-800-733-8394. 

Lone Star Legal Aid is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm focused on advocacy on behalf of low-income and underserved populations. Lone Star Legal Aid serves millions of people at 125% of federal poverty guidelines that reside in 72 counties in the eastern and Gulf Coast regions of Texas, and 4 counties of southwest Arkansas. Lone Star Legal Aid focuses its resources on maintaining, enhancing, and protecting income and economic stability; preserving housing; improving outcomes for children; establishing and sustaining family safety and stability, health and well‐being; and assisting populations with special vulnerabilities, like those who have disabilities, or who are elderly, homeless, or have limited English language skills. To learn more about Lone Star Legal Aid, visit our website at http://www.lonestarlegal.org.

Contact: [email protected]

Clarissa Ayala

• Clarissa Ayala https://www.lonestarlegal.org/news/author/clarissaayala/ Campus Safety: Federal Requirements, Navigating College Resources, and a Survivor’s Journey to Advocacy

Latest News

Lone star legal aid helps 20-year-old reinstate disability income benefits he had relied on for sixteen years before being cut off, by natalie cochran.

Morgan is a 20-year-old diagnosed with ADHD, Autistic Disorder, Aspergers Syndrome, depression, and seizures. He was employed at Walmart, Sears, and Home Depot as a maintenance man, placing work orders, stocking, and unloading furniture. He failed to meet production demands which caused him stress and anxiety and eventually lost focus of his work tasks. He was later fired for poor […]

Campus Safety: Federal Requirements, Navigating College Resources, and a Survivor’s Journey to Advocacy

By becky stevenson, ashley norris, clarissa ayala and victoria k. smith, march 3-9 is national consumer protection week , lone star legal aid receives grant from federal home loan bank dallas to address heirs’ property issues in harris county, february 2024, by aimee vonbokel, lone star legal aid fights for client with multiple disabilities who lost medicaid benefits despite submitting recertification packet, privacy overview.

Wake County, NC

House Wake! COVID-19 Financial Assistance Program Helps Renters Struggling to Pay Rent, Utilities

Wake County and the City of Raleigh are making more than $33 million in federal aid available to local renters who are behind on rent or utility bills. The House Wake! COVID-19 Financial Assistance Program will provide monetary support to tenants, landlords and utility companies to cover portions of rent and/or utility shortfalls resulting from a loss of income due to the pandemic.

“Like millions across the country, many in our community are struggling to make their monthly housing and utility payments,” said Wake County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Vickie Adamson. “COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for residents, and it is more important than ever to keep people safe in their homes. As a board, we’re committed to linking our residents with the resources they need to avoid eviction and utility disconnections.”

Assistance is available for up to 12 months of past-due rent and unpaid utilities dating back to April 1, 2020. Renters who continue to experience economic hardships after the initial agreement period may also qualify for additional financial support. Program staff will work with applicants individually to re-certify and create a payment plan based on income and assistance needed. All assistance provided through this program will be paid directly to landlords and utility service providers.

Utilities covered by the program include:

• Internet Services  

“In partnering with Wake County and Telamon, a major City of Raleigh objective was to point renters to a single source of assistance having the staffing and capacity in place to take care of past due rent and utility bills as quickly as possible and to provide on-going assistance as needed,” said Larry Jarvis, Director of the City of Raleigh Housing and Neighborhoods Department.

Telamon Corporation will act as administrator for the program. The organization will process applications, coordinate in-take of prospective clients and facilitate payments to the landlords and utility companies.

For households where financial assistance is not enough, House Wake! COVID-19 Financial Assistance Program is offering two additional services:

• Legal counsel, provided at no cost for tenants who cannot reach an agreement with their landlords or need legal counsel for mediation services; and  
• Relocation Assistance, for households earning below 50% of area median income (AMI) unable to maintain payments for their current home and are at-risk of homelessness due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

The City of Raleigh will contribute to this effort $14 million in federal funding allocated by the Emergency Rental Assistance Program to be combined with the $19 million allocated to Wake County.

To qualify, a household must:

• Live in Wake County and be able to show proof of residency;
• Have a legally binding North Carolina lease that covers the assistance period;
• Demonstrate that they have suffered financially from COVID-19;
• Have an income that does not exceed 80% AMI, with priority given to households below 50% AMI, based on household size; and
• Be at risk of homelessness or housing instability if rent or utility bills remain unpaid.  

Residents can visit wakegov.com/housing or call 919-899-9911 to learn more and apply.

About House Wake! House Wake! is a strategic plan to minimize the effects of COVID-19 on homeless and precariously housed Wake County residents, while maximizing opportunities for positive long-term outcomes.

This plan uses and coordinates federal, state and local funding to address the COVID-19 crisis within our homeless and precariously housed populations and aims to move the maximum number of people possible to housing stability.

Related Articles

Wake Board approves $2.4 million loan for 55 new affordable homes

Housing facility for homeless mental health support reopens

Memorial to honor dozens who died while homeless this past year

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. .

The new Individual Assistance updates only apply to disasters declared on or after March 22, 2024. Read about the updates.

Rental Assistance and Continued Rental Assistance FAQ

FEMA Rental Assistance is available for eligible San Diego County renters and homeowners who cannot live in their homes because of damage due to the Jan. 21-23, 2024, severe storm and flooding disaster. In addition, they may also be eligible for continued Rental Assistance.

What Is Rental Assistance?

FEMA rental assistance is a temporary grant for survivors to pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their home. For renters, it may provide a solution while their home is under repair or while they look for a new place to rent.

What does Rental Assistance cover?

• Rental Assistance covers temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home.
• Rental Assistance funds are for security deposits, rent and the cost of essential utilities such as electricity, gas and water.
• Rental Assistance can be used for short-term hotel stays while you look for a place to rent.
• Rental Assistance may not be used to pay for cable or Internet.

How long does rental assistance support me?

• The initial grant is for one to two months on a case-by-case basis.
• You can then request a three-month extension for up to 18 months total by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

What do I do if my home is not safe, sanitary and livable and I need a place to stay?

• Your Flood, Homeowners or Renters’ Insurance company will give you a settlement document that you will need to provide to FEMA.
• It may take time to get this document, so file your insurance claim as soon as possible.
• Check with your insurance agent to see if your policy covers Additional Living Expenses which may pay for relocating to a temporary residence.
• You can apply online at  DisasterAssistance.gov , use the  FEMA mobile app  or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 . Multilingual operators are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT daily. 
• Submit your insurance settlement documents to FEMA for review as soon as you receive them. 
• If your policy does not include additional living expenses, or if you use up this coverage and you still cannot live in your home, you may be eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance. 
• Keep all of your receipts for three years to show how you spent your FEMA grants.
• If grant money is not used as outlined in your FEMA eligibility letter, you may have to repay your grants and you could lose your eligibility for further federal assistance.
• FEMA is prohibited from duplicating benefits provided by other sources for the same loss.

What is Continued Rental Assistance?

Rental Assistance is the initial temporary 1-2-month grant for homeowners and renters to pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their home. After the first 1-2 months, survivors can apply for continued Rental Assistance which provides three-month Rental Assistance extensions for up to 18 months total.

Am I eligible for continued Rental Assistance?

To be eligible to apply for continued Rental Assistance, you must meet the following conditions: 

• Were awarded initial Rental Assistance and used it help you pay rent and essential utility costs.
• Are unable to return to your pre-disaster residence because it is uninhabitable, inaccessible, or not available due to the disaster.
• Demonstrate a disaster-caused financial need.
• Show you are developing a longer-term or permanent housing plan or demonstrate progress toward one. For example, a contractor’s estimate of repairs can point to progress.

How do I apply for continued Rental Assistance?

• Fill out an application.
• If you are a homeowner and your losses are equal to or greater than the amount of the initial Rental Assistance award, the application for continued Rental Assistance will be sent to you automatically, approximately two weeks after the initial Rental Assistance award was approved.
• If you are a renter, you must contact FEMA and ask for an application for continued Rental Assistance by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362  7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT daily.
• Turn in your application to FEMA.
• Complete the application including the required documentation. (See the FAQ below outlining the required documentation.)
• Upload them to your disaster account at DisasterAssistance.gov .
• Mail them to FEMA, PO Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
• Fax to FEMA at 1-800-827-8112

What documents do I need to turn in with my continued Rental Assistance application?

You should submit the following documents with your application: 

• Pre- and post-disaster income for household members 18 and older.
• Proof of pre-disaster housing costs. For example, proof can be copies of lease and utility bills, renter’s insurance, mortgage statements, real estate taxes, home insurance, etc.
• Proof of post-disaster housing costs such as a copy of current lease or rental agreement signed by the applicant and the landlord.
• Copies of all receipts for expenses related to housing.

Where do I submit my application?

Your application form and supporting documents should be returned to FEMA in one of the following ways: 

What would disqualify me for continued Rental Assistance?

• You must request continued Rental Assistance within 18 months the from date of declaration.
• If you do not submit documentation that demonstrates you have used your entire Rental Assistance award, your first continued Rental Assistance award will be reduced by what remains of the initial Rental Assistance.
• Applicants residing in non-traditional housing are not eligible for continued Rental Assistance.

Is continued Rental Assistance based on my income?

• Continued Rental Assistance is based on a disaster-related unmet need. Income and the price of rent are both used to determine eligibility.

Is continued Rental Assistance based on what I paid for rent pre-disaster? 

• FEMA continued Rental Assistance covers full rent (that is based on Fair Market Rate) plus a utility allowance.

For the latest FEMA information on the Jan. 21-23, 2024 San Diego County severe storms and flooding, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4758 .

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).