Hall County Government will soon begin receiving applications for utility assistance as a part of their COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP).
“We realize that the COVID-19 pandemic financially impacted a number of Hall County residents in a multitude of ways, and they need help not only paying their monthly rent but also paying for essential utilities,” said Hall County Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard Higgins. “This new component of Hall County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program will allow us to offer tangible help to those who need it.”
Hall County’s ERAP was originally launched in April of this year to assist Hall County residents who have been financially impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are at risk of homelessness or housing instability. Utility assistance was added to the program as a result of additional federal funding and becomes available beginning Oct. 4.
“We are honored to help administer these funds, which will undoubtedly help numerous Hall County residents as they deal with the devastating and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Higgins.
Households in Hall County who have individuals who qualified for unemployment benefits, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic are highly encouraged to apply for rental assistance, utility assistance or both.
Eligibility requirements include households that are at or below 80% of the area median income as well as other criteria, which can be found online at hallcounty.org/rentalassistance.
For rental assistance, landlords can apply on behalf of tenants, and both parties are encouraged to work together to receive funds quickly if approved. For utility assistance, payments will be made directly to the utility provider if assistance is approved. Successful applicants can receive up to 18 months of assistance for past due rent, prospective rent or utility assistance.