How it works?
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is designed to provide help with rent assistance to renters by covering arrears in accommodation, utility bills, and limited future rent. It also offers protection from certain types of eviction by landlords and from undue rent increases. Additionally, applying for NYC ERAP benefits does not prevent you from applying to other programs like Cash Assistance or the One Shot Deal emergency assistance provided by the NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA).
How long does it cover?
You can get the following coverage ERAP:
- Emergency Assistance in rent for up to twelve(12) months of arrears
- ERAP for up to three(3) months of your next rent if you spend 30 percent or more of your gross monthly income to pay for rent.
- Get up to twelve(12) months of late electricity or gas utility bills.
Moreover, eligible applicants for the NYC ERAP benefit will receive protection and cannot be evicted by their landlord for late rent payments. In addition to rent relief, programs like ERAP may also provide deposit assistance to help renters secure housing and prevent eviction.
When is the appropriate time to apply
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) has reopened since January 11, 2022, and is still accepting new applications. This program provides renters grants to assist with overdue rent and utility payments. You may apply through http://www.otda.ny.gov/erap or by contacting one of the community-based organizations that are empowered to register clients.
646-484-9937
Neighborhood Association for Intercultural Affairs, Inc. (NAICA)
718-866-0038
Brooklyn
Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc.
718-841-7771 or 1-800-323-6736
929-552-2248
Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty
929-292-9480
RiseBoro Community Partnership
718-547-2800
Manhattan
Catholic Charities Community Services
888-744-7900
Queens
Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York, Inc
646-248-6602
RiseBoro Community Partnership
718-547-2800
Catholic Charities Neighborhood Services (CCNS)
347-464-0485
Staten Island
929-724-5360
Can my landlord apply for ERAP for me
Yes, your landlord has the option of starting the application for ERAP on your behalf, but both the landlord and the tenant will need to complete certain parts of the process together. For instance, your landlord will be responsible for submitting information about the arrears in rent that you owe. It’s important to stay involved in the process to ensure that all details are accurate. Platforms like myrental living can also assist with tracking rent payments and keeping your rental information organized during this process.
Also, as a tenant, you must provide officials with specific information, such as your income details, to ensure a proper decision can be made. Most importantly, applicants will need to attest that after March 1, 2020, a member of their household experienced a reduction in income. For guidance, you can contact a rental assistance center, where experts can help you navigate the process and ensure all required information is accurately submitted.
Below are the documents that will be needed for you to qualify for the program:
- Personal Identification
- Proof of rental amount
- Proof of residency and occupancy
- Proof of income to document income eligibility:
- Documents that demonstrate current monthly income
- Documents that demonstrate annual income for 2020
- Gas and electricity utility bills or proof of consumer utility debt
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