Quick Answer
What Was the Macomb County CERA Program?
The Macomb County CERA Program was a temporary COVID-19 emergency rental assistance initiative that helped eligible Michigan renters pay past-due rent, utilities, and certain housing costs between 2021 and 2022. The program is now closed, but renters in Michigan may still qualify for other housing assistance programs and local emergency aid resources.
Macomb County CERA Program Overview
The Macomb County CERA Program was established through a partnership between Macomb Community Action and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to distribute federal Emergency Rental Assistance funds created during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program assisted renters who experienced financial hardship and were at risk of eviction or housing instability.
Although the application period ended in June 2022, many Michigan residents continue searching for information about the program because they need copies of prior records, want to understand historical eligibility rules, or are seeking similar assistance options available today.
If you currently need help paying rent, you may also want to explore resources available through Rental Assistance Online, review local housing assistance programs, and contact nonprofit agencies serving your county.
Macomb County CERA Program Entity Map
Macomb County CERA Program Eligibility Requirements
The historical eligibility rules required applicants to meet several conditions:
- Household income below 80 percent of the Area Median Income.
- Demonstrated COVID-19-related financial hardship.
- Risk of homelessness or housing instability.
- Past due rent or utility obligations.
- Residence located within the program service area.
Historical Income Limits
| Household Size | 80 Percent AMI Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $44,800 |
| 2 | $51,200 |
| 3 | $57,600 |
| 4 | $64,000 |
| 5 | $69,150 |
| 6 | $74,250 |
Historical Program Funding
Up to 18 Months
Qualified households could receive as much as 18 months of rental assistance under certain program priority rules.
Macomb County CERA Program Documents Required
Applicants generally had to provide the following documentation:
- Completed tenant application.
- Past due notice, eviction notice, or court documentation.
- Photo identification.
- Copy of lease agreement.
- Proof of household income.
- Utility bills if assistance was requested.
- Documentation of COVID-19 hardship.
- Landlord records and payment history.
Pro Tip from the Editorial Team: Even though the Macomb County CERA Program has ended, former participants should keep copies of applications, approval letters, and payment records for tax, housing, and recordkeeping purposes.
Need Help Paying Rent Today?
Explore current housing assistance resources and emergency aid programs available in Michigan.
Macomb County CERA Program Alternatives for Michigan Renters
Although CERA has closed, renters facing financial hardship may still qualify for assistance from local nonprofits, emergency shelters, community action agencies, and eviction prevention programs.
Current resources may include:
- Local Community Action Agencies.
- Michigan 2-1-1 referrals.
- HUD housing counseling agencies.
- Nonprofit eviction prevention organizations.
- Emergency utility assistance programs.
- County-specific emergency rental assistance funds.
You can also explore additional resources at Emergency Rental Assistance Programs, Rent Assistance Resources, Eviction Help Programs, and Utility Assistance Programs.
Macomb County CERA Program Compared With Current Assistance Options
| Program | Status | Assistance Type |
|---|---|---|
| Macomb County CERA Program | Closed | Rent and utility assistance |
| Community Action Agencies | Active | Emergency rent assistance |
| Michigan 2-1-1 | Active | Program referrals |
| HUD Counseling Agencies | Active | Housing counseling and referrals |
Macomb County CERA Program FAQs
Is the Macomb County CERA Program still accepting applications?
No. The program stopped accepting new applications in June 2022.
Can I still receive CERA benefits?
New benefits are no longer available through CERA because the federal funding period ended.
What documents were required?
Applicants generally needed identification, lease agreements, proof of income, utility bills, and documentation of hardship.
Did the program help with utilities?
Yes. Historical CERA benefits included certain utility payments and internet assistance.
Where can I find help now?
Michigan residents should contact local community action agencies, Michigan 2-1-1, nonprofit organizations, and county housing programs.
Find Rental Assistance Programs Available Today
The Macomb County CERA Program helped thousands of households during the pandemic, but new assistance opportunities continue to emerge through nonprofits, local governments, and emergency housing organizations.
- Search for local rent assistance resources.
- Learn about eviction prevention services.
- Discover utility assistance programs.
- Connect with community organizations for support.
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