After a federal eviction ban expired July 31, putting millions of Americans at risk of losing their homes, the Biden administration announced a new moratorium late Tuesday for much of the country. It covers areas where COVID-19 case numbers are spiking, accounting for 90% of the population, through Oct. 3. There are also some state and local eviction bans that remain in place. But even with these temporary protections, tenants are on the hook for back rent accumulated during the pandemic. To help ease the financial pain, the U.S. government has put in place programs to protect renters. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act signed Dec. 27, the Treasury Department disbursed $25 billion of emergency rental assistance for households struggling to pay rent and utilities. A second round with $21.6 billion was approved March 11.
So, how does it work? Generally, tenants apply for help with their county or state governments, which contact landlords to ask if they'd like to participate by waiving a portion of past-due or upcoming rent, usually about 20%. If landlords agree, rent is paid directly to them on the tenants' behalf. Some cities, including Washington, put money into tenants' accounts if landlords refuse to participate. Some cities provide utility assistance and mortgage assistance, as well.
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Application windows have closed in some of the nation's largest cities, but there are some county and statewide alternatives, and programs may reopen if more funding becomes available. In some cities, tenants need to apply in person; others handle applications by email or online. (Any method slows significantly if you don't have the correct documentation ready.) Here's what you need to know about applying for programs in 25 major cities.
New York
The last round of applications for New York's COVID Rent Relief Extension Program closed Feb. 1, but the federally funded New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program is now open. Approved households may get up to 12 months of overdue rent and electric or gas bills paid, plus up to three more months of rental assistance if the amount is at least 30% of their gross monthly income.
Where to apply: New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
- New York residents, regardless of immigration status
- Households earning up to 80% of the area median income for the county, starting at $66,850 for individuals in New York City, with priority given to households at or below 50%
- People who have received unemployment benefits since March 13, 2020, or experienced a reduction in income, incurred significant costs, or experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic
- People behind on rent payments owed since March 13, 2020
- Households that can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability by showing proof of past-due rent going back to March 13, 2020
You'll need:
- Proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID or driver's license
- Proof of rental amount, such as a signed lease
- Proof of residency and occupancy, such as a lease, rent receipt, or utility bill
- Proof of income (to document eligibility), such as pay stubs or 2020 tax forms
- Copy of a gas or electric bill (if applying for help paying for utilities)
Related: What You Can and Can't Buy With SNAP Benefits
Los Angeles
LA's Emergency Renters Assistance Program has been amended to supply 100% of tenants' unpaid rent for April 1, 2020, through March 31, 2021 (up from 80% for people whose landlord agreed to waive the remaining 20%). It's now closed to new applicants due to "unprecedented demand," but "applications might open in the fall," according to the website. Meanwhile, tenants cannot be evicted as long as a city emergency declaration remains in effect, and California's statewide eviction moratorium has been extended through Sept. 30. People who live in Los Angeles County but not within the city of LA may be eligible for a state program. City residents can sign up to be notified when the city program starts accepting applications again.
Where to apply: Los Angeles Housing and Community Investment Department Emergency Renters Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
- Residents of the city of Los Angeles, regardless of immigration status
- Households earning up to 50% of area median income for the county, with priority given to households at or below 30%
- People who have experienced reduced income due to COVID-19
- People behind or up to date on rent payments
You'll need:
- Proof of residency in Los Angeles, such a driver's license or Real ID
- Rental agreement, lease, or sublet agreement
- Proof of current past-due rental amount, such as a receipt or ledger
- Proof of household income, such as tax forms or employer contact information (renters with roommates or housemates must count their household income together)
- Proof of unemployment and/or financial hardship due to COVID-19
For extra help: 833-373-0587; for additional language services, 213-808-8808
Related: How to Salvage Your Finances During Economic Uncertainty
Chicago
The application window for the city program has closed, but residents may be able to apply for a statewide program through the Illinois Department of Human Services. Renters cannot apply on their own, however; they must be referred by a DHS partner to help them apply and obtain the funds. The programs offer assistance with up to 12 months of unpaid rent and up to three months of future rent. Materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: Illinois Rental Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
- Illinois residents, regardless of immigration status
- People who have experienced a COVID-related financial hardship such as loss of income
- People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability
- Households earning up to 80% of area median income for the county, starting at $52,200 for individuals in Chicago
You'll need:
- Photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID, or CityKey
- Copy of the lease or rental agreement
- Proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax documents
- Proof that you have experienced financial hardship and your housing is at risk due to COVID-19
For extra help: 866-ILHELP1 (866-454-3571)
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Houston
To apply for rent or mortgage help in Houston, you must make an appointment to apply in person by calling 713-696-7900. People unable to make their next month's rent or with no foreseeable income may not be eligible. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: Harris County Community Services Department
Who's eligible:
- Residents of Harris County
- Households earning up to 80% of area median income
- People who experienced "a documented hardship or proof of exhausting income" due to COVID-19
- People who have gotten a vacate notice with their name on it
- Heads of household
You'll need:
- Proof of identity, such as a state or government ID
- Social Security card
- Proof of citizenship status, such as a passport, permanent resident card, or birth certificate
- Proof of residence, such as a house deed, lease agreement, or housing contract
- Proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns
- Proof of past management of bills/rent, such as a record of payment history for previous utility bills or rent
- Current bank statement/bank transactions history report and/or expense receipts
- Verification of other government assistance such as SSI, SSDI, food stamps, pension vet benefits, and child support
For extra help: 832-927-4955
Phoenix
The city of Phoenix is distributing more than $51 million in aid to help residents get caught up on rent, as well as bills for utilities and city services including water and trash, incurred between March 13, 2020, and December 31, 2021. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: City of Phoenix Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
Phoenix residents (application forms do not ask about citizenship status)
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $44,250 for individuals
People who qualify for unemployment benefits, or have experienced financial hardship as a result of COVID-19
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability
You'll need:
- Proof of residency, such as a driver's license, utility bill, or lease agreement
- Proof of income, such as pay stubs, for the last 30 days
- Proof of financial impact, such as a termination letter or reduction of work hours
- Current lease agreement
- Proof of identity, such as a driver's license
- Current utility bills
- Eviction, five-day notice, or late statement from your property manager or landlord
For extra help: 602-534-AIDE (2433)
Related: SNAP and Other Low Income Relief Programs for Seniors
Philadelphia
The city is currently in the fourth phase of Emergency Rental Assistance to disburse $97 million toward past-due or upcoming rent payments and utility bills. Unlike most rental assistance programs, it pays renters directly if landlords do not want to participate. The total amount for rent assistance cannot exceed $2,000 per month and additional assistance of up to $2,000 each for gas, water, and electric.
Where to apply: City of Philadelphia COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance
Who's eligible:
Renters in Philadelphia
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $52,950 for individuals, with priority given to households below 50%, starting at $33,100 for individuals
People who qualify for unemployment insurance benefits, or have experienced financial hardship as a result of COVID-19
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness, housing instability, or proof of living in unsafe conditions
People who have received funds in Phases 1 to 3
You'll need:
Proof of income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or unemployment insurance benefits ("We are waiting for further federal guidance on document requirements for tenants," the city website says)
For extra help: 215-320-7880 or the ERAP Help Center
San Antonio
San Antonio's Neighborhood & Housing Services Department has provided $101.6 million to renters and homeowners in need of rent and mortgage aid and utility assistance (including internet) during the COVID-19 crisis. An online form asks the types of help that are needed and directs applicants to the proper forms. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: City of San Antonio Neighborhood & Housing Services Department
Who's eligible:
Renters or property owners in San Antonio
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $40,350 for individuals (as found on the Under 1 Roof Program website, with priority given to households below 50%, starting at $25,210 for individuals
You'll need:
Proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID (including driver's license or passport)
Proof of financial hardship, such as notice of unemployment or furlough, or notice to vacate
Proof of income for the past two months (even if none), such as bank statements, check stubs, awards for Social Security, SSI, TANF, SNAP, or Medicaid
Lease or mortgage documents
Landlord's name, phone number, and email address
For extra help: 210-207-5910
Related: 24 Important Things to Know When Applying for Food Assistance Programs
San Diego
San Diego County is selecting applicants based on two priority tiers: Top priority goes to households earning 50% of area median income or less; then to single-parent households and Health Equity residents. Aid can cover up to 12 months of past-due rent and utility payments from April 2020 to March 2021. Application materials are available in Spanish, Tagalog, Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Somali, Farsi, and Swahili.
Where to apply: County of San Diego Housing & Community Development Services
Who's eligible:
Renters in San Diego County
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $67,900 for individuals
People unemployed as of the date of application for assistance or living with someone who is
Single-parent households or Health Equity residents living in areas that have less access to healthy opportunities
You'll need:
Proof of identity such as a copy of a government-issued ID or birth certificate
Proof of residency in San Diego County such as a utility bill, current lease, or another form of rental agreement
Proof of income such as pay stubs for all working members of the household, 2020 tax return, CalWORKs benefit letter, unemployment verification, or other documents that state income
Rent verification such as a lease, rent receipts or ledgers, or a written attestation from a landlord
COVID-19 unemployment documentation or other financial hardship documents
Documentation of household risk of experiencing homelessness such as a past-due utility or rental bill, eviction notice, or self-attestation for unhealthy or unsafe living conditions, such as a vermin infestation or nonfunctional utilities
For extra help: 858-694-4801
Dallas
Dallas County provides up to $1,500 of rent, mortgage, and utility assistance per month to qualifying residents for up to six months. Applicants are selected based on a lottery system. A pre-screening application can be completed online, or by phone at 214-819-1968.
Where to apply: Dallas County Emergency Housing Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
Renters in Dallas County
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $48,300 for individuals, with priority given to households below 50%, or where one or more members has been unemployed for 90 or more days
People who have suffered a job loss or reduction in income resulting in non-payment of a rental or mortgage payment on or after April 1, 2020
You'll need:
Photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID
Household income verification such as a bank statement, Social Security award letter, or government assistance such as VA benefits or SNAP benefits
Lease agreement or mortgage statement, or an eviction or late notice
Utility bills, such as water or sewage
Proof of economic impact, such as pay stubs and unemployment insurance benefits
For extra help: 214-819-1968
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San Jose, California
While some California cities and counties have their own application websites, residents of most California counties, including Santa Clara, can apply through the state of California's general rental assistance portal, called Housing Is Key. Santa Clara County residents can apply for past-due, current, and future rent and utility assistance. Eligible tenants whose landlords choose not to participate may get 25% of unpaid rent between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021. Application materials are available in Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog.
Where to apply: Housing Is Key California COVID-19 Rent Relief
Who's eligible:
Renters in Santa Clara County, regardless of citizenship or legal residency
People who have experienced a reduction or loss of income since April 1, 2020, related to COVID-19
People who qualify for unemployment insurance benefits
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability by showing proof of past-due rent and utilities, or proof they have been living in unsafe conditions
You'll need:
Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or birth certificate
Proof of income, such as IRS Form 1099 or 1040, most recent pay stubs, or current bank statements
Proof of residence, such as a lease agreement or utility bills
Proof of rent owed, such as a lease agreement
Proof of utility bills owed, such as a utility bill showing a past or current amount due
For extra help: 833-430-2122
Austin, Texas
If renters get help in Austin, payments are made directly to landlords or property managers. This program does not cover utility payments, but more resources are available for people in need. Application materials are available in Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Korean, Burmese, Hindi, and Urdu.
Where to apply: Relief for Emergency Needs of Tenants Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
Renters in Austin, regardless of citizenship or legal residency
People who have experienced a reduction or loss of income since April 1, 2020, related to COVID-19
People who qualify for unemployment insurance benefits
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability by showing proof of past-due rent and utilities, or proof they have been living in unsafe conditions
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $54,700 for individuals
You'll need:
Government-issued photo ID for the head of household
Proof of unemployment benefits, if you have received unemployment
Proof of income such as two most recent consecutive pay stubs, a 2021 Social Security benefit letter, or self-employment accounting documentation
For extra help: 512-488-1397
Related: How to Cope With Job Loss and Other Traumatic Events
Fort Worth, Texas
Applicants may use the funds they receive to cover past-due or current rent and utilities and any other housing expenses resulting from the pandemic. The online application is user-friendly, and more information about Fort Worth's area median income can be found on this flyer. Landlords can apply on behalf of eligible renters with written tenant approval. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: City of Fort Worth Emergency Rental Assistance
Who's eligible:
Renters in Fort Worth with proof of citizenship or legal residency
People who have experienced a reduction or loss of income since April 1, 2020, related to COVID-19
People who qualify for unemployment insurance benefits
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability by showing proof of past-due rent and utilities, or proof that they have been living in unsafe conditions
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $45,650 for individuals
Landlords applying on behalf of an eligible tenant with written tenant approval
You'll need:
Asset documentation, such as checking account statements, savings, retirement, or other financial accounts or property worth more than $100,000
Proof of income, such as the most recent tax return for the head of household, the last 60 days of pay stubs for all adults over 18 in the household, or a SNAP benefits award letter
Copy of a lease showing the monthly rent amount and all persons authorized to be in unit, plus provisions regarding late fees
Documents or a written statement supporting financial hardship due to COVID-19
Documentation of prior rental assistance, if applicable
Photo ID for all household members over the age of 18
Most recent utility bills (water, electricity, gas, and internet)
Late notices or eviction notices, if applicable
Court docket number, if you've been summoned to court for an eviction notice
For extra help: 817-392-7540
Jacksonville, Florida
The city defines crisis as "loss or reduction of household income, unexpected medical expenses, car repairs, a family dissolution, death in the family, or an expense due to foreclosure, condemnation, fire, or disaster." If you've experienced any during the pandemic, you might be eligible to apply for rent, mortgage, and utility assistance.
Where to apply: City of Jacksonville Emergency Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
Residents of Duval County
Households with income no higher than 150% of the federal poverty level
People in "a documentable crisis situation"
People who have a delinquent, eviction, foreclosure, or shut-off notice, or loss of utility service
People who haven't received financial assistance from the city within the past 30 months
People who had been able to meet basic needs before a current pandemic-related financial hardship
You'll need:
Photo ID for all household members
Proof of household income and resources for the past 45 days, such as bank statements, pay stubs, and unemployment insurance benefits
Lease agreement or a copy of an eviction notice, if applicable
Copy of a utility shut-off notice, if applicable
For extra help: 904-255-2469
Columbus, Ohio
Franklin County's Board of Commissioners can cover an applicant's delinquent rent up to $1,500 and current or next month's rent up to $1,500. Residents of Columbus can get one-time assistance for rent, mortgage, auto repairs, utilities, and a bus pass if one is needed to get to work, job training, or school, with a limit of four months. Payments are made directly to landlords, utility companies, and suppliers.
Where to apply: Download an application at the Franklin County Board of Commissioners Emergency Assistance Program website and email it to FRANKLIN-CDJFS-Verifications@jfs.ohio.gov
Who's eligible:
Residents of Franklin County
People with at least one minor child and pregnant people in their third trimester
Households earning an income below 165% of the poverty level in Franklin County, detailed in this spreadsheet
You'll need:
Social Security number, or proof you've applied for one
Proof of U.S. citizenship, for those who are U.S. citizens
Permanent resident card or other INS information for those who aren't U.S. citizens
Verification of earned and unearned income
For extra help: 844-640-OHIO (6446)
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Indianapolis
IndyRent has a waitlist for renters who want to be alerted when they can apply. Renters may get up to three months of back rent via the user-friendly online application portal, including late fees accrued after April 1, 2020. They get monthly help up to the price of fair market rent based on the size of their apartment; if the apartment costs more than fair market rent, they may get less than they need to cover three months of rent. Application forms and information are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: City of Indianapolis IndyRent Assistance Portal
Who's eligible:
Renters in Indianapolis with proof of citizenship or legal residency
Households that have experienced a reduction or loss of income due to the pandemic
Applicants for rental assistance in 2020
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $45,750 for individuals
You'll need:
Benefit letter from an approved program such as TANF, SSI, EAP, SNAP, or HIP anytime since Jan. 1, 2020
Copy of a 2020 IRS Form 1040 or 1099, or other proof of income
For extra help: 317-912-1260
Related: Energy Assistance Programs in Every State
San Francisco
Using the same Housing Is Key application portal as San Jose, eligible renters here can apply for relief to cover 80% of unpaid rent if the landlord agrees to waive the remaining 20%. Eligible tenants whose landlords choose not to participate may get 25% of unpaid rent for April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021. Application materials are available in Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog.
Where to apply: Housing Is Key California COVID-19 Rent Relief
Who's eligible:
Renters in San Francisco, regardless of citizenship or legal residency
Households that have experienced a reduction or loss of income since April 1, 2020, related to COVID-19
People who qualify for unemployment insurance benefits
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability by showing proof of past-due rent and utilities, or proof they have been living in unsafe conditions
You'll need:
Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or birth certificate
Proof of income, such as IRS Form 1099 or 1040, most recent pay stubs, or current bank statements
Proof of residence, such as a lease agreement or utility bills
Proof of rent owed, such as a lease agreement
Proof of utility bills owed, such as one showing a past or current amount due
For extra help: 833-430-2122
Seattle
Seattle tenants with leases can apply for some of the $145 million in available funding for help paying up to nine months of past-due and current rent, plus three months of future rent. Those without a lease might be able to get three months of current, past-due, and future rent. The tenant pool opened May 17. Application materials are available in Amharic, Arabic, Burmese, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Chuukese, Dari, Farsi, French, Hindi, Hmong, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Lao, Marshallese, Oromo, Punjabi, Russian, Samoan, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog, Thai, Tigrinya, Ukranian, and Vietnamese.
Where to apply: King County Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
People who experienced a reduction in income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due to COVID-19
People earning up to 50% of area median income, starting at $40,500 for individuals
People who can demonstrate risk of homelessness, housing instability, or unsafe living conditions
You'll need (most likely; the county website doesn't specify):
Photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport
Proof of income, such as pay stubs, tax forms, or unemployment insurance benefits
A past-due notice for rent or utilities, or an eviction notice
For extra help: 206-293-3481
Related: 21 Financial Lifelines to Help Small Businesses Stay Afloat
Denver
Colorado's rental assistance program can cover past-due rent as far back as April 2020. Funds can also be awarded for current rent and up to two months of future rent payments, which will be made directly to a landlord. Application forms and information are available in Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Marathi, Nepali, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, and Vietnamese.
Where to apply: Colorado Department of Local Affairs Emergency Rental and Mortgage Assistance
Who's eligible:
People who were unable to pay rent because of pandemic-related financial hardship
Households earning up to 80% of area median income, starting at $54,950 for individuals
People who haven't received assistance that covered rent for the months requested
You'll need:
Government-issued ID
Proof of residence in a property, such as a lease or current utility bill
Evidence of rent due, such as a lease, or proof of payment to the landlord or leaseholder for the month before assistance is needed. This can include a copy of a rent check, ledger from Venmo, PayPal, or other forms of digital payment
Eviction notice, if applicable
Income documentation for all household members 18 and above, including pay stubs for the previous 30 days, 2020 tax returns, or a SNAP benefits award letter
Proof of reduced income due to the pandemic
For extra help: 1-888-480-0066
Washington
Program benefits can be used to pay back rent going back to April 1, 2020, and up to three months of upcoming rent. Funding can also be used for utility expenses, including gas, water, and electricity, and housing support for up to 18 months per tenant. Application materials are available in Spanish, Amharic, French, Korean, Mandarin, and Vietnamese.
Where to apply: Stronger Together by Assisting You D.C.
Who's eligible:
Tenants in Washington, regardless of citizenship status or legal residency
Households with total 2020 income not exceeding certain limits, starting at $57,650 for individuals
People who have experienced financial hardship or a reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
People who have past-due rent or utilities, or pay more than 50% of their household income on rent
You'll need:
Proof of identity, such as a valid driver's license or passport
Proof of household eligibility, such as an approval letter for unemployment benefits, copies of medical expenses, or an approval letter for government assistance programs such as Medicare or SNAP
Proof of income, such as a copy of an IRS Form 1040 or W-2, pay stubs, or statements from PayPal, Venmo, or CashApp for gig workers
Proof of need for rent assistance, such as a written rental or lease agreement, bank statements for those without a written lease, or a self-attestation document
Proof of need for utility assistance such as copies of past-due or current utility bills
For extra help: 833-4-STAYDC (833-478-2932)
Related: What to Do If the Government Wants Your Pandemic Money Back
Boston
Assistance is available to cover past-due rents starting March 13, 2020, current rents, and three future months of expected rent costs. The assistance will also cover past-due, current, and up to three months of expected utility costs, including internet and home energy expenses up to $1,500. If landlords are not responsive or unwilling to participate, applicants may use the funds for relocation assistance (security deposit, first and last month's rent, and moving costs) anywhere in the city. Application materials are available in Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Cape Verdean Creole, Haitian Creole, Somali, Vietnamese, Arabic, French, and Russian.
Where to apply: City of Boston Rental Relief Fund
Who's eligible:
People whose total 2020 household income does not exceed certain amounts, starting at $67,700 for individuals, with priority given to those with income at or below 50% of area median income, starting at $47,000 for individuals
People who have experienced financial hardship or reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
People who have past-due rent or utilities, or pay more than 50% of household income on rent
You'll need:
Copy of a signed current lease or tenant agreement
Photo ID for the head of household
Two most recent pay stubs
Documentation of unemployment if applicable
Optionally, documentation of enrollment in MassHealth or SNAP/EBT
For extra help: 615-635-4200 (select 5 for "Rent Relief")
El Paso, Texas
El Paso's unique application process features a directory of landlords who have signed up to get rental assistance payments online. Instead of applying to one large portal, tenant applications are matched with a landlord's online listing. Landlords will verify the amount of rent owed, and payments are made to landlords directly. There can be only one application for rental assistance per household. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: City of El Paso and County of El Paso COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
El Paso residents, regardless of citizenship or immigration status
Households earning up to 80% of area median income in 2020, starting at $33,000 for individuals
People who have experienced financial hardship or a reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
People who are behind on rent payments as far back as April 2020
People whose landlord is listed in the participating landlord directory
You'll need:
Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or passport
Proof of residence at a unit through a current lease that states your name and rent amount
Proof of monthly income, such as an award or approval letter from government programs such as unemployment insurance benefits or SNAP, or a 2020 tax return
Proof of economic impact, through an employment termination letter or reduction of work hours since March 1, 2020
For extra help: United Way of El Paso County's Community Resiliency Center, 877-594-7276
Related: 18 Ways to Help Small Businesses Survive Right Now
Nashville, Tennessee
Renters can get assistance with up to 12 months of rent and utilities lagging as a result of COVID-19. The online portal is user-friendly, and there's a helpful video that shows how to navigate the application portal.
Where to apply: Metro Action Commission HOPE Application
Who's eligible:
Renters in Davidson County
People whose total 2020 household income does not exceed 80% of area median income, starting at $47,250
People who have experienced financial hardship or a reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
People who are behind on rent and utility payments as far back as March 13, 2020
You'll need:
Photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID
Proof of financial hardship due to COVID-19, including paychecks before and after March 13, 2020, a termination letter from your employer, medical statements, or bank statements
Current lease or rental agreement
Proof of monthly household income at the time of application, such as pay stubs, unemployment assistance, tax documents, or government assistance award letters
Late notice or eviction notice, if applicable
Landlord or property manager contact information including name, address, and phone number
For extra help: 615-862-RENT (7368)
Oklahoma City
The Community Cares Partners program boasts a 97% approval rate, and a user-friendly application portal allows updates to applications with supporting documents even after submission. Funds can help tenants with rent for 12 to 15 months, including past-due rent and fees accrued during the pandemic.
Where to apply: Community Cares Partners
Who's eligible:
Oklahoma tenants
Households earning up to 80% of area median income
People who experienced financial hardship or a reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
People who are behind on rent and utility payments going back to March 13, 2020
People who have received a past-due notice, notice to quit, or eviction summons
You'll need (most likely; the program website doesn't specify):
Photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport
Proof of income, such as pay stubs, tax forms, or unemployment insurance benefits
Written agreement to prove residence, such as a lease
Utility bills under your name
For extra help: Online contact form
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Las Vegas
Applications may take up to four weeks to process, but funds can be used to pay for rent, mortgage, and utilities, with the level of aid based on the availability of CARES Act grant funding and each individual household assessment, according to the city. While the eligibility requirements are broad, case workers take time to investigate cases closely to determine what kind of assistance is possible. Applicants can check the user-friendly CHAP Assistance Chat on the website to see if they qualify. Application materials are available in Spanish.
Where to apply: Clark County CARES Housing Assistance Program
Who's eligible:
Renters in Clark County
People who have experienced financial hardship or reduction in income, or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19
You'll need:
Photo ID (regardless of state)
Verification that each household member is on the lease agreement
Copy of the current lease in your name
Copy of a utility bill in your name
Documentation of financial hardship because of COVID-19, including a letter of termination or furlough, past pay stubs, or proof of unemployment benefits
For extra help: CHAPinfo@ClarkCountyNV.gov; CHAPayuda@ClarkCountyNV.gov for Spanish
Detroit
Renters in Detroit may get up to $2,500 per month per household, depending on income. Up to 12 months of past-due, current, or future rent assistance is available, as well as up to $2,500 in utility assistance.
Where to apply: Michigan COVID Emergency Rental Assistance
Who's eligible:
People who have received a past-due rent notice; a notice to quit; or a court-ordered summons, complaint, or judgment since March 13, 2020
Households earning up to 80% of area median income in 2020, starting at $44,000 for individuals
You'll need:
State ID, such as a driver's license or passport
Proof of residence, such as a lease or utility bill
Proof of income for all household members 18 or older, such as a tax form, pay stubs, unemployment benefits, or government assistance such as food stamps or SSI
Proof of COVID-related hardship, such as screenshots from an unemployment website showing the amount paid and your name anytime after March 13, 2020
Proof of housing instability such as a past-due notice, notice to quit, or eviction notice
Most recent utility bills, including electric, home, heating, water, sewer, and internet
For extra help: 866-313-2520
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