SAN DIEGO–About $100 million in emergency rental assistance will be available starting Tuesday, March 2, the County of San Diego said Tuesday.
“This is a new lifeline for people who are having trouble making ends meet due to the pandemic,” said County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer. “We want to make sure this public health crisis does not leave San Diegans in debt or without a home. If you are having trouble paying rent or utilities, we are here to help.”
The County of San Diego’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) helps eligible households in qualifying areas who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides payment assistance for renters behind on rent and utilities.
All areas of the San Diego region are served by the program except for the cities of San Diego and Chula Vista. Residents in those cities can visit www.ERAPsandiego.org for programs specific to their municipalities.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Household must have experienced a financial hardship directly related to COVID-19.
- Household is at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
- Household must not receive any other forms of rental subsidy such as Section 8 or other rental assistance programs, rapid rehousing assistance, or rental assistance from non-profit agencies.
- Household income must be at or below 80 percent of the area median income
Residents can apply at www.sdhcd.org. Only one application per household will be processed. Applicants will be able to check their status on the application portal at any point in the process.
Individuals without internet access or who need assistance in completing an application can call (858) 694-4801.
