Broward to Launch Online Rental Assistance Program
Qualified residents impacted by COVID-19 will soon be able to apply online for rental assistance, thanks to the Broward County Commission.
Broward County has allocated $25 million in federal CARES funding for a program that will help residents pay portions of unpaid rent for the months of April, May, June, July and August 2020. Funds are not a loan, and do not have to be paid back.
Individuals may be eligible if they meet the following requirements:
They are a Broward County resident
They or someone in their household experienced a documented loss or reduction in income related to COVID-19
Due to the loss of income related to COVID-19, they were unable to pay their rent
Their landlord agrees to participate
Assistance equates to a partial payment of rent. For months one and two of the owed rent amount the rental assistance program will pay, and the landlord must agree to, 75% of the amount due. For months three, four and five of rent assistance , the program will pay, and the landlord must agree to, 60% of the amount due. Late fees, if any, will not be covered by the program.
Payments are made to landlords, therefore if a landlord is not willing to complete the documents, the tenant will not be eligible for assistance.
Broward County’s Family Success Division is managing the application process and will approve and distribute funds until depleted.
Application Period Opens August 31
The application period is Monday, August 31 through Sunday, September 6, 2020, from 8AM to 10PM daily. Applications may be submitted online only, at Broward.org/CARES. A computer is not necessary, and the application can be completed on a smartphone or tablet. No in-person applications will be accepted.
Source: Broward.org