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FULTON – Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) has partnered with the New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) to help families and individuals applying for the program. The PIU provides tax relief to households behind on their rent who have experienced financial hardship, who are at risk of homelessness or housing instability, and who earn at least 80% of the region’s median income.
Administered by the State Office of Temporary Help and People with Disabilities, the New York State Emergency Rent Assistance Program will provide significant economic relief to help low- and moderate-income households at risk to end up homeless or unstable housing by providing them with rent arrears, temporary rent assistance and arrears assistance. In addition to the tax relief, the ERAP will offer important protections to tenants.
Representatives from OCO Prevention Services will help people determine their eligibility for the ERAP and apply for benefits.
“OCO has set up a helpline number, 315-342-7618, which people can call for information on how to apply and the locations of walk-in clinics where they can receive assistance. person, ”said Tina, OCO’s Crisis and Development Services Collaboration Manager. Eusepi. “Applications are now being accepted and we are ready to help you! “
Initially, the program will prioritize the unemployed, those with incomes equal to or less than 50% of the region’s median income, and other vulnerable populations. After the first 30 days, ERAP requests will be processed on a first come, first served basis, as long as funds remain available.
Once approved, eligible households will receive up to 12 months of past due rent. Eligible people could also receive up to three months of additional rent assistance, if the household spends 30% or more of its gross monthly income on rent. The program will also provide up to 12 months of utility backlogs for eligible applicants.
New York residents are eligible for the ERAP if they meet all of the following criteria:
Gross household income is equal to or less than 80% of the area’s median income (AMI). These income limits differ by county and household size. A household may be eligible based on its current income or on calendar year 2020 income equal to or less than 80% of the MAI.
As of March 13, 2020, a household member received unemployment benefits or suffered a reduction in income, incurred significant costs or experienced financial hardship, directly or indirectly, due to the COVID-pandemic. 19.
The applicant is required to pay rent on their primary residence and have rent arrears (overdue rent) at their current residence for rent due on or after March 13, 2020.
The household must be at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, which can be demonstrated by arrears of rent due as of March 13, 2020.
There is no requirement for immigrant status to qualify for the program.
Households eligible for rent arrears may also be eligible for assistance to pay utility arrears in the same rental unit.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of hardship for families and individuals,” Eusepi said. “As the community action agency for Oswego County, OCO is pleased to partner with ERAP to help people with financial challenges find housing. I encourage those in need of assistance to call our helpline, 315-342-7618, and let us help you apply for the State of State Emergency Rental Assistance Program. New York.
