Merced County CA Emergency Rental Assistance Program Guide

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Quick Answer

Income-qualified Merced County tenants and landlords impacted by COVID-19 are eligible for financial assistance through California’s COVID-19 Rent Relief program. Assistance is available to both tenants and landlords, with payments going directly to cover rent and utility costs. For an up-to-date view of which programs remain open, see the 2026 California rental assistance guide.

How to apply for emergency rental assistance programs in Merced County, California
Emergency rental assistance application resources for Merced County, CA tenants and landlords

About Emergency Rental Assistance in Merced County

Income-qualified California tenants and landlords in Merced County who have been impacted by COVID-19 are eligible for financial assistance through the statewide CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program. The program covers eligible households facing financial hardship tied to the pandemic, with assistance available to both tenants and landlords through a joint application structure common across California’s county-level programs.

Merced County operates within the broader statewide framework administered through California’s Department of Housing and Community Development. For neighboring Central Valley counties facing similar circumstances, the Stanislaus County rental assistance program and Stockton emergency rental assistance program operate under comparable eligibility frameworks and may be relevant if you live near a county border.

Program at a Glance

Who can apply: Tenants and landlords
Administered through: CA COVID-19 Rent Relief
Coverage: Rent and utility assistance
Apply at: housing.ca.gov

Who Is Eligible for Merced County Rental Assistance

Eligibility for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program in Merced County generally follows the same standards used statewide:

  • Merced County residency: The rental property must be located within Merced County.
  • COVID-19 financial impact: Applicants must demonstrate income loss, job loss, or increased expenses directly tied to the pandemic.
  • Income qualification: Household income at or below 80% of the Merced County Area Median Income (AMI), consistent with federal ERA program standards.
  • Risk of housing instability: Documentation showing overdue rent, past-due utility bills, or a risk of eviction.

Both tenants and landlords can initiate an application. In cases where a landlord declines to participate, tenants may often still apply independently and receive funds directly, depending on current program rules.

Pro Tip

California’s COVID-era rental assistance has largely shifted to county and city-level funding rounds that open and close throughout the year. If Merced County funds are currently unavailable, check the 2026 California rental assistance guide regularly, as new funding cycles are announced with limited notice.

Behind on rent or utilities in Merced County? Find out what assistance may be available to you.

Check If You Qualify

How to Apply for Merced County Rental Assistance

Applications for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program are submitted through the state’s housing portal. Both tenants and landlords have dedicated application paths:

  • Tenants: Apply through housing.ca.gov to begin the tenant application process.
  • Landlords: Apply through the same portal to initiate or confirm participation in a tenant’s application.

Before applying, gather the following documents to streamline the process:

  • Government-issued photo ID.
  • Current lease or rental agreement.
  • Proof of household income for all adult members.
  • Documentation of COVID-19 financial impact (termination letter, reduced hours notice, medical bills, etc.).
  • Any past-due rent or utility notices.

Renters in the broader Sacramento Valley region can also check the Sacramento County Emergency Rental Assistance Program for resources in the surrounding area. Tenants currently facing eviction proceedings in Merced County should also review alternatives to eviction available in California, including legal aid, mediation, and negotiated payment plans, while a rental assistance application is processed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Merced County Rental Assistance

Is the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program still accepting applications in Merced County?

Statewide COVID-era rent relief funding has largely closed across California, though some county and city programs continue to open limited-time funding rounds. Check housing.ca.gov directly or the 2026 California rental assistance guide for the most current status before applying.

Can landlords apply for rental assistance on behalf of tenants in Merced County?

Yes. The program is structured to allow both tenants and landlords to apply. A landlord can initiate an application on behalf of a qualifying tenant, and approved funds are typically paid directly toward the outstanding rent balance.

Does the program cover utility bills in addition to rent?

Yes. The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program generally covers both rent and utility costs for income-qualified households, consistent with how the program operates statewide. Specific coverage details and caps should be confirmed at the time of application.

What if I live just outside Merced County?

Check the program serving your specific county. Neighboring Central Valley counties — including Stanislaus County and the city of Stockton — operate comparable rental assistance programs. The rental property’s location, not your mailing address alone, generally determines which county program applies.

What should I do if I’m facing eviction while my application is pending?

Notify your landlord and, if applicable, the court of your pending rental assistance application — this can sometimes pause or delay proceedings. Also review alternatives to eviction in California, including legal aid resources and negotiated payment plans, as a parallel option while your application is processed.

Behind on Rent in Merced County? Help May Still Be Available

State and local programs may still be able to cover your rent and utilities. Connect with an advisor to find out your options today.

Start Your Application Now