Essex County

Essex County, New Jersey — Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. stated that applications for the Essex County 2021 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) will begin on Thursday, May 13th. There is a total of $15.4 million available for award. Renters and landlords who have been harmed by the Coronavirus epidemic and require assistance paying their rent or utility bills may apply for aid. Online applications are accessible here.

Applications will open on Thursday, May 13th. Awards will be distributed according to a first come, first served basis.

“The pandemic generated financially difficult and trying times for people and families who lost income or job as a result of the disease. Our Emergency Rental Assistance Program assists qualifying residents and families in catching up on rent and utility arrears, as well as paying rent and/or utility bills in the future. This will ultimately prevent individuals and families from being evicted and becoming homeless,” DiVincenzo said.

Individuals or families who have been touched by COVID-19 by unemployment, a drop in household income, or another financial difficulty are eligible to apply. Both tenants and landlords may apply; landlords may apply on behalf of their tenants. To be eligible, applicants’ incomes must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) established by HUD.

The applicants will be required to provide identification for the head of household, income information for all adults in the household over the age of 18, a copy of the lease, information about the landlord, and information concerning delinquent rent and utility payments (unpaid). Section 8 or public housing residents may be eligible for assistance with costs not covered by federal assistance as well as the tenant’s share of rent or utility bills.

The United States Department of Treasury is funding the 2021 Essex County Emergency Rental Assistance Program through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.

This is Essex County’s latest public assistance initiative to support individuals and small businesses throughout the epidemic. Essex County last year offered two programs to aid small businesses with expenses, payroll, and lease payments, as well as a rental assistance program for individuals and families and a mortgage support program for homeowners.

Essex County residents who need new EBT cards (SNAP, WFNJ) can call 862-327-1747 or 862-327-1748 or fax 973-643-3867. Replace your ID card at the Essex County Division of Family Assistance and Benefits.