There’s $847 million in federal rental assistance up for grabs for Pennsylvanians who need help paying their rent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
But officials in the state’s Department of Human Services, which oversees the program, said there haven’t been many applications.
So far, only about 8,000 applications for rental assistance have been submitted through a state portal, representing two-thirds of Pennsylvania counties. The average benefit has been about $4,000 per applicant.
Here’s what you need to know about the commonwealth’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program:
What is the ERAP?
The program was created to help renters facing financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who are eligible can get money to pay their rent and utilities to avoid eviction or losing service.
What does it cover?
The money can go towards paying rent, including trailers and lots, as well as long-term housing hotels, motels and boarding homes.
It also could go to utilities, including electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash removal and fuel oil.
Who is eligible?
Those paying rent on a residential property must meet the following eligibility requirements:
One or more people within the household have qualified for unemployment benefits, had a decrease in income, had increased household costs or experienced other financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the COVID-19 pandemic.
One or more individuals in the household can show a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
The household has an income at or below 80% of area median income, or AMI.
What are the income limits?
For a four-person household in Lehigh and Northampton counties, it’s $62,550. For a four-person household in Monroe or Carbon, it’s $63,300 and $62,550, respectively.
How do I apply?
Applications for most counties can be submitted online through www.COMPASS.state.pa.us. However, some counties don’t participate in the COMPASS application; in that case, you will be notified to apply directly with your county.
What documents do I need?
You’ll need quite a few documents to go along with your application. However, state officials said the county ERAP office will work with you to get necessary documents or written attestations as needed.
You’ll need:
Personal identification such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, etc.
Unemployment determination letter or proof of a decrease in household income due to COVID-19 (paystubs or a letter from your employer).
Proof of income for all household members over age 18.
Paystubs, W-2s, other wage statements, tax filings, direct deposit records or attestation from an employer.
Documentation of unearned income such as unemployment benefits, Social Security benefits, retirement benefits, child/spousal support, etc.
Document(s) showing rent and/or rental arrears due.
Document(s) showing utility and/or utility arrears due.
Document(s) showing other housing-related expenses experienced due to COVID-19.
How are payments issued?
Payments go directly to the landlord or utility provider. However, if a landlord or utility company doesn’t want to participate, the payment is made to the tenant, which must be used to cover those bills.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Morning Call reporter Molly Bilinski can be reached at mbilinski@mcall.com.
We rely on the support of our subscribers to fund our journalism as we continue to cover the coronavirus crisis. If you’re not already signed up, we hope you will consider subscribing. Already a print subscriber? If you haven’t already, please activate your digital access.
