Current Rental Assistance Programs
- Assistance for Homeless Families:
Provides first-month’s rent and security deposit payments for homeless families with children in Fayette County Public Schools, in partnership with Goodwill and Fayette County Public Schools. - Senior Rental Assistance:
Offers up to $500 in back rent payments for seniors in Fayette County, administered through the Lexington Senior Center. - Emergency Financial Assistance:
Prevents evictions or utility disconnections. Residents can call (859) 300-5300 to schedule an appointment. Eligibility criteria include:- Residency in Fayette County for at least one year.
- No assistance received from Community & Resident Services in the last three years.
- Proof of a disconnect or eviction notice, or being 30+ days past due on rent/mortgage.
- Community Block Development Grants:
Offers financial help with application fees for households earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
For affordable housing options, residents can consult inventory lists provided by the city or call 211 for housing-related support.
FAQs About Lexington-Fayette Urban County Rental Assistance
1. How can I apply for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Renters Relief Program?
To apply for rental assistance:
- Call (859) 300-5300 to schedule an appointment for emergency financial aid.
- If applying for programs specific to homeless families or seniors, contact the Lexington Senior Center or Goodwill for guidance.
- Check with the city’s Community Development office for application fee assistance funded by federal block grants.
2. What documents are needed to qualify for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Renters Relief Program?
You will typically need:
- Proof of Fayette County residency for at least one year.
- Government-issued photo ID.
- Social Security cards for all household members.
- Current lease agreement or mortgage documents.
- Proof of income for all household members.
- Notices such as an eviction letter, disconnect notice, or proof of rent/mortgage delinquency (30 days or more past due).
3. Are there income limits for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Renters Relief Program?
Yes, income limits may apply, depending on the program:
- For emergency financial assistance, income eligibility may be determined case-by-case.
- Assistance through Community Block Development Grants is limited to households earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Check the latest AMI thresholds for Fayette County to confirm eligibility.
4. How long does it take to process an application for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Renters Relief Program?
Processing times can vary depending on the program and demand:
- Emergency assistance is typically processed within a few weeks to address urgent eviction or utility disconnection cases.
- Programs funded by federal grants may take longer due to administrative requirements.
It’s recommended to contact the specific program administrator for accurate timelines.
5. Can I get assistance if I’m already receiving other forms of rental subsidies?
Yes, but certain restrictions may apply:
- Some programs, such as those funded by Community & Resident Services, may limit aid if other subsidies are being received.
- Double-dipping (receiving assistance for the same expense from multiple programs) is typically prohibited.
- Contact the program administrator to clarify your eligibility based on your current subsidies.
Next Steps for Renters in Need
If you need rental assistance in Lexington-Fayette Urban County, take these steps:
- Identify the program that matches your needs (e.g., assistance for seniors, homeless families, or emergency support).
- Gather the required documentation and confirm your eligibility.
- Contact the appropriate agency or service provider to initiate your application.
These programs are designed to offer temporary relief, ensuring stability for individuals and families during financial hardships. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you qualify!
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Denise Madison, age 34, is an expert in housing policy and rental assistance. Denise earned her Master’s in Public Administration from McGill University, focusing her thesis on the effectiveness of rental assistance programs in major Canadian cities. After graduation, she worked with the Canadian government before transitioning to a consulting role in the United States, aiding in the enhancement of federal housing policies and programs. Denise is known for her practical workshops and seminars aimed at landlords and tenants, fostering better understanding and compliance with housing laws. When not at work, Denise cherishes time with her husband and their three young children, exploring the outdoors and teaching them about the importance of community involvement.