Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Queens
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) assists Queens households behind on their rent that have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19 and are at risk of homelessness or housing instability. In addition, the program can provide temporary rental assistance and assistance with unpaid utility bills. If you need assistance with applying and would like a specially-trained Catholic Charities representative to help with the application and follow-up, register with us. Here is how it works.
Important Note For ERAP Applicants
Total requests for assistance exceed available federal funding for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Currently there is no federal funding available to financially aid new applicants via ERAP, but you can still benefits from its protection against eviction if you sign up.
New Applicants’ Updates:
- All new applicants can still benefit from its protection against eviction.
- Households with income over 80% and up to 120% of area median income can still apply for state-funded emergency rental assistance. To see if you are eligible, click on Income Limits 80% and Income Limits 120%.
Existing Applicants’ Updates:
- If you have applied before November 14th, 2021, your case is still being treated and you can still access and review your case.
- If your application has been rejected, you can still request further assistance and update your application if needed.
Do I Qualify?
Eligible residents must meet the following criteria:
- Household gross income over 80% and up to 120% of area median income, which varies by county and household size.
- A member of the household received unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in income, incurred significant costs or experienced financial hardship, directly or indirectly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The applicant owes past due rent at their current residence.
How Does It Work?
This assistance can pay up to 12 months of past due rent and for some households, pay up to 3 months for future rent. The program can also pay for up to 12 months of overdue electric or gas bills. Please note, payments will always be issued directly to the landlord or utility provider.
How Do I Apply?
Catholic Charities can help you apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and track your application. Start by completing this form. Once completed, a Catholic Charities representative will contact you and begin the application process.
For More Information Call
718-880-3286
Due to heavy call volume, you may experience longer than normal wait time.
Or apply on the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA):
Tenants and Landlords can apply directly by going to the OTDA website. There you will find additional information and a link to track your application status; or call 844-NY1-RENT (844-691-7368).
Emergency Rental Assistance Program Enroller Organizations
Not a Queens resident? Here are other community organizations that can help.
BRONX
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MANHATTAN
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BROOKLYN
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STATEN ISLAND
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