Deadline for California COVID rent relief is approaching. Here’s how to apply
Renters and landlords have until March 31 to apply for the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program.
The program is intended to help renters who have been financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and have unpaid rent, upcoming rent and utilities.
San Luis Obispo County residents who need help applying can get assistance from the Five Cities Homeless Coalition, Salvation Army and United Way, according to the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department.
More information about the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program
Californians may apply regardless of immigration status and will not be required to provide proof of citizenship, according to the program overview.
Rental assistance will not be considered earned income and will not impact eligibility for other assistance programs such as CalFresh or CalWORKS, according to the overview.
Applications can be submitted online — the sooner, the better. Priority will be given to individuals most at-risk for eviction, according to the program overview.
To apply, renters need to provide ONE of the following:
- 2020 tax return
- 2020 W2 and 1099G if unemployed
- Current pay stubs
- Proof of participation in a state or federal subsidy program such as CalFresh or CalWORKS (2020 or 2021 acceptance or renewal letter is preferred)
- For utility assistance, provide invoices or statements for any unpaid utility, trash and internet bills after April 1, 2020
To apply landlords need to provide ALL of the following:
- Lease or rental agreement reflecting renter’s name, residence address and monthly rent due
- Rent ledger or rent statement showing the balance of unpaid rent from April 1, 2020
- W-8 or W-9 (for tax purposes)
For landlords, any assistance provided directly to the landlord through this program does count as income.
How to apply for rent relief
Call the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Call Center at 833-430-2122 with questions.
Call 833-687-0967 for assistance in a language other than English, to ask questions about eligibility, or to get help filling out an application and more.
Eligible participants may apply online at housing.ca.gov/covid_rr/index.html
