Those struggling to pay their rent may soon find some assistance, as Greenville County has announced it is now accepting applications for residents to access federal funds to help pay their rent.
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 allowed Greenville County and other large counties across the country to administer funds from the Emergency Rental (and Utility) Assistance Program, otherwise known as ERAP.
The money can go toward rent, utilities or rental arrears including late fees and is open to all households that are renters who have qualified for unemployment due to COVID-19 at least 90 days previously, have experienced a reduction in income due to COVID-19, have incurred significant costs due to COVID-19 or have otherwise suffered “financial hardship” because of the virus.
The purposefully broad guidelines also include households that are at a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, including an eviction notice, utility shutoff notice, past rent due or unhealthy living conditions.
Households that earn either 50% or 80% of the area median income are also automatically eligible.
Those wishing to apply can do so at GreenvilleCounty.org/EmergencyRentalAssistanceProgram.aspx.
