As a part of the CARES Act passed by Congress, Palm Beach County has extended the application deadline for rental, utility, and food assistance. The new deadline to submit applications is November 16th.

The Coronavirus Relief Fund Rent and Utilities Assistance Program (CARES Act) provides a one-time rental and utility assistance to eligible Palm Beach County residents who have experienced loss of income, reduction in hours, or unemployment as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic only.

Palm Beach County will utilize the funds provided by the CARES Act to support this program and assistance will only be provided for past due rent payment and/or utilities due from March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. The rules and regulations associated under section 601(a) of the Social Security Act, as added by section 5001 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) will govern the use of the funds.

Eligible residents who experienced a loss of income as a direct result of COVID-19 may apply for rental and utility assistance to pay outstanding debt, including:

• Rent up to $10,000

• Electric, water and/or gas up to $1,200

• Assistance may be applied to outstanding balances beginning in March 2020

Food assistance is also available for eligible residents and is based on household size:

• $400 for households with 1-2 individuals

• $800 for households with 3-4 individuals

• $1,000 for households with 5 or more individuals

Sources: County Community Services / Congressman Brian Mast