Housing Relief1. Talk with your landlord.
When you can’t pay your landlord, it’s essential to buy time so you can figure out how to get out of that mess. What won’t buy you time? Ignoring your landlord, as that won’t fix the problem, will only make them angrier and will make them more likely to do everything in their power to kick you out. That’s why communication is a must.
Get in touch with your landlord as quickly as possible. Tell them all of the details about your current situation that describe why you cannot pay the rent, such as:
- You lost your job.
- Your hours were reduced.
- You were disqualified from assistance you were receiving.
- An emergency happened that cut into your savings.
While listing why you cannot pay the rent is essential, it’s even more crucial to let your landlord know what you’re doing to fix the situation. For instance, tell them that you are:
- Looking for a job.
- Selling some of your items for quick cash.
- Applying for rental assistance.
- Looking for loans.
Once all of that info is out in the open, take things one step further by asking your landlord for a manageable payment plan or an extension so you can get your finances in order. And if you’ve been a solid tenant and want to continue living where you are, ask your landlord if you could negotiate a lower rent payment. They may say yes to keep you as a tenant and avoid finding your replacement.
2. Call 211.
If you feel overwhelmed and cannot focus on researching different ways to find rent assistance, dial 211 on your phone. When a local operator answers, tell them you cannot pay your rent and need assistance now. They will list your options that can vary depending on the severity of your situation.
For instance, the local operator may recommend you to a local shelter if you’ve been evicted. They may connect you with local organizations that offer emergency rent assistance, such as the Salvation Army or Catholic Charities. Or, they may tell you to contact a Public Housing Agency that can offer long-term housing solutions.
3. Apply to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
The ERA program was created to help people struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the eviction moratorium ended, many found themselves low on cash and unable to pay their landlords. With assistance from the ERA program, you could get help paying:
- Past rent
- Future rent
- Utility bills
- Moving expenses
If you’ve never heard of this program, that’s because its rollout has been a bit complicated and split amongst over 500 local offices. To find your local office so you can apply for ERA benefits before it’s too late, visit this link.
