Housing ReliefThe coronavirus pandemic triggered a chain reaction that was financially disastrous for many. First, they lost their jobs due to businesses shuttering. Second, they lost the income that came from those jobs. Third, they found it impossible to pay their bills. And lastly, many found themselves wondering where they’d live after not paying the rent.
The government stepped in to stop many of those fears via stimulus checks and extra unemployment benefits. And to help those unable to pay the rent, the CDC implemented a national eviction moratorium to keep landlords from putting people on the streets.
Joint filers could qualify for eviction protection if they made less than $198,000. Single filers could do the same if their income fell below $99,000. Does this mean rent was waived? No, as back rent plus late fees could rack up, but at least you didn’t have to worry about homelessness.
Unfortunately, the Supreme Court struck down the national eviction moratorium on a 6-3 vote. And while some local and state governments (such as Los Angeles County) made moratoriums of their own, you may fear eviction now that the federal protection has ended.
To help make that fear disappear, here are several resources that can come in handy if you’re facing eviction.
Rent Assistance
Do you owe back rent? Would you like help with making future rent payments? Do you have past-due utility bills? Or did you incur moving expenses due to the pandemic? If so, the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program can help with all of the above.
Nearly 500 state and local programs share the billions of dollars that fund that program, so you’ll have to find your nearest office to get your hands on that cash. To do so, visit this link.
The National Low Income Housing Association has a helpful link of its own that can connect you with rent assistance. Visit it here to find your nearest rent relief program.
Emergency Housing
The HUD can help you find emergency housing or a shelter, so you don’t end up on the streets due to eviction.
Other Forms of Assistance
Have you ever called 211? If not, know that it’s a phone number that can save the day, as it has local operators that can connect you with organizations that offer assistance with food, housing, healthcare, paying bills, and much more.
Legal Help
You may feel lost due to the stress of the pandemic, lacking income, and facing eviction. That’s why getting the help of legal experts is a must, so you don’t tackle the complex issue of housing alone.
Depending on your situation, you could get a free attorney from Legal Aid. Contact them if you’ve been threatened with eviction due to lack of payment.
There are local organizations that offer eviction assistance too. They can prevent your eviction or find emergency housing, and JustShelter.org has a massive list of such organizations.
