County Launches Second Phase of Rent Relief Program

Montgomery County launched the second phase of its $20 million COVID-19 Rent Relief Program, which is designed to financially assist eligible residents. The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services administers the program.

The money comes from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security. Eligible residents who can’t pay their rent due to the global pandemic, can apply for the assistance on a rolling basis.

Eligible renters must certify that their income is under 60 percent of the average mediam income, or $65,529 for a family of three. They must also show that they lost income due to COVID-19 and are behind in their rent.

Eligible renters can receive up to $4,000 to cover their back rent or pay for future months. The money goes directly to the landlord when a formal lease agreement exists. Those already receiving a COVID Rent Relief Grant, a State Assisted Housing Relief Program grant or have a housing voucher are not eligible.

Renters living in the neighborhoods hit hardest by the global pandemic will be awarded the money first.

More than $1 million was distributed to eligible households during the first phase, which began in July. There is a waitlist for the funds, according to a news release from the Montgomery County HHS.

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About Suzanne Pollak

Suzanne is a freelance reporter with Montgomery Community Media. She has over 35 years professional experience writing for newspapers, magazines, non-profit newsletters and the web.

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