Jim Probasco
March 27, 2020
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What if losing a job, even temporarily, means you need rent relief or you can't pay your rent? As more and more states impose lock downs or stay-at-home orders to prevent spread of COVID-19, renters, who are among the most vulnerable when it comes to housing security, wonder what relief they could have to help pay the rent or avoid eviction.
Programs for homeowners that prevent foreclosure and provide mortgage payment relief are available from the federal government, states, municipalities, and private lenders. Now, the same help is ramping up for renters. Here's what's available, how it works, and how to get help.
FHFA Freddie Mac/Fannie Mae Rent Relief
A nationwide relief plan for up to 4 million apartment renters across more than 27,000 properties, announced by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae in cooperation with the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), lets landlords whose properties are financed with a Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae Multifamily loan defer loan payments for 90 days.
To qualify, landlords must show hardship as a consequence of COVID-19, get approval from their lenders, and agree not to evict any tenant solely on the basis of non-payment of rent during this 90-day period. Landlords must contact their loan servicer to apply. Tenants should contact their landlord to find out what they need to do.1 2
Fannie Mae Disaster Response Network
Fannie Mae's Disaster Response Network has published a guide for renters affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19). Through the network, HUD-approved housing advisors provide:
- Personalized recovery assessment and action plan
- Help working with your housing situation
- Financial coaching and budgeting
- Access to Clearpoint’s* Project Porchlight Online tools and resources
- Ongoing check-ins to help ensure a successful recovery
Call 877-542-9723 to access the Disaster Response Network.
FHA Office of Multifamily Programs
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Office of Multifamily Housing Programs encourages landlords to work with renters impacted by COVID-19 to adjust rent payments or enter into forbearance agreements until additional funding is made available by Congress. Contact your landlord to request help.5
211.org Social Services Search
United Way sponsored website 211.org provides an easy-to-use search bar by zip code, or by community and state, to find sources of help with rent as well as many other essential services. Fill in the required information, click "search" and get information about available help.6
State By State
Many states have taken action to pause or suspend renter evictions, at least temporarily. The table below lists those states that have halted evictions and the date or time period the suspension ends if known. The list will be updated as it changes.
STATES HALTING EVICTIONSEND DATE IF ANNOUNCED
California- May 31, 2020
Connecticut- March 27, 2020
Delaware- April 16, 2020
Illinois- April 7, 2020
Indiana- End of emergency
Iowa- April 16, 2020
Kansas - May 1, 2020
Kentucky - No end date
Louisiana - No end date
Maine - May 1, 2020
Maryland - End of emergency
Massachusetts - No end date
Michigan - April 17, 2020
New Hampshire- No end date
New Jersey - May 18, 2020
New York - June 24, 2020
North Carolina - April 13, 2020
Pennsylvania - April 3, 2020
Rhode Island - April 19, 2020
South Carolina - No end date
Tennessee- No end date
Texas - April 19, 2020
Virginia - April 6, 2020
Washington - April 18, 2020
Washington D.C. - No end date
**Source: Millionacres, as of Mar. 24, 2020
Cities and Counties Also Offer Help
Even in states where a statewide moratorium on evictions or help with rent is not available many cities and counties have programs of their own. Check local and state government websites for information about COVID-19 related eviction moratoriums, rent forbearance or rent assistance.
Advice From the National Apartment Association (NAA)
The National Apartment Association (NAA) reminds all renters who have suffered financial distress as a result of COVID-19 to reach out to their landlords to explain their circumstance. In addition to national, state, and local programs, many individual private owners have plans underway or already in place to help deal with the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak.8
Potential Stimulus Bill Help
The Senate unanimously approved a massive $2 trillion stimulus package March 25 that would, among other things, send a $1,200 check to many adult U.S. citizens. While these monies wouldn't be considered rent subsidies, they could be used for that purpose since housing is a major expense for most families. Voting on the bill by the House of Representatives is expected Mar. 27, 2020.
