United Way NCA refers those in need of emergency rental assistance in MD, DC, and Virginia to call 2-1-1. Learn more about how to get help.
Emergency Rental Assistance in MD & Washington, DC
As the United States continues to recover from the devastating impact of the pandemic, millions of our neighbors and families face and fear deep rental debt, evictions, and the loss of basic housing security. For those in need of emergency rental assistance in MD, COVID-19 has only exacerbated the affordable housing crisis that existed prior to the pandemic and that has deep disparities that threaten the strength of an equitable economic recovery.
To meet this critical need, United Way of the National Capital Area works to connect our community members to the appropriate emergency rental assistance in MD and DC that can support those who are unable to pay rent or utilities. Learn how our support has empowered a community member to go from an assistance recipient to a volunteer in our projects.
Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is a federally funded initiative administered through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The program provides financial relief to low-income Maryland residents struggling with rent payments due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds are distributed through the Maryland Eviction Prevention Partnership, which helps renters stay in their homes by covering past-due rent, security deposits, first month’s rent, and legal fees associated with eviction cases.
How Does Rental Assistance Work in Maryland?
Many Maryland renters wonder, “How does rental assistance work?” The Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) operates through local county and municipal programs, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process. Tenants in Maryland must apply through the county’s designated rental assistance portal, providing:
- Proof of rental delinquencies
- Income verification
- Tenant Worksheet & Certification
- Documentation from the property manager if required
The Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Call Center (877-546-5595) is available for questions and assistance with applications.
Who Qualifies for Emergency Rental Assistance in MD?
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a Maryland resident
- Household income at 50% or less of area median income (AMI)
- Proof of financial hardship due to COVID-19
- Facing imminent eviction with legal documentation
- Applications are prioritized based on economic need.
Four Ways to Get Emergency Rental Assistance in MD & Washington, DC
1. 2-1-1
2-1-1 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline number that connects callers to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Nationally, 2-1-1 is to social services what 9-1-1 is to emergency services.
- United Way NCA refers thousands of callers in search of social services to 2-1-1 call centers in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia.
- 2-1-1 is available in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Individuals call 2-1-1 in search of food, shelters, utilities, emergency rental assistance in MD, health care, counseling, and much more in their local community.
Learn more at https://unitedwaynca.org/programs/health/2-1-1/
2. Project Community Connect 2021: DC Rental/Utility Assistance Panel
Due to the pandemic, thousands of individuals are behind on their rent because they lost their jobs in the service industry. To avoid evictions, the federal government has distributed millions of dollars in rental and utility funds to local jurisdictions. The panelists on the rental and utility panel below share information on how to qualify for these federal funds.
Presented by:
- Faye Frempong | Catholic Charities Southeast Center, DC
- Emory Brown | PEPCO Holdings
- Joseph Lippi | DC Department of Human Services
For additional resources, check out our YouTube channel here.
3. STAY DC
STAY DC is a financial assistance program for D.C. renters and housing providers who are looking for support to cover housing and utility expenses and offset the loss of income. Renters can apply to receive money to help pay for rent, gas, water, electricity and internet.
Learn more at https://stay.dc.gov/#apply
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has a variety of resources that can help renters during this time. Support ranges from assistance in searching for an apartment or public housing, using the Housing Choice Voucher Program to pay for all or part of rent, and other materials around fair housing, security deposits, and tenant rights, laws and protections.
See more at https://www.hud.gov/topics/rental_assistance
When none are ignored, all will thrive.
