Stranded and desperate for shelter tonight? Don't spend another moment exposed to the elements; discover how an emergency hotel voucher could be your lifeline, providing immediate, secure accommodation when you need it most.
Imagine up to $50,000 for your goals or unexpected needs, directly in your account, without the wait.
Apply Now & Get Fast Funding!
On this page:
The maryland rent relief program landscape has shifted since the height of pandemic-related aid. However, support remains available for residents facing financial hardship and struggling to pay rent. Finding the right assistance can feel confusing, especially as program availability and rules often vary across different parts of the state.
This article aims to clarify the current options for rental assistance in Maryland. It will guide you toward helpful resources. While large-scale federal initiatives like the initial Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) have evolved or concluded in many areas , various state, county, and non-profit programs continue to offer crucial support.
It is essential to check the current status, funding availability, and specific eligibility requirements for any program you consider. Understanding where to look and what to expect is the first step toward securing the help you need.
Shift from Broad Emergency Aid
The broad emergency rental assistance Maryland offered during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily through the federal ERAP, has largely transitioned. Current financial help for renters is often more targeted. Assistance programs may now focus on specific groups.
These groups can include families with children, seniors, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or those facing immediate eviction.
Increased Local Administration
A significant change is the increased focus on local administration. Many rent relief efforts are now managed directly by individual county governments or major cities. Examples include Prince George's County, Montgomery County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, and Annapolis.
This means the type of help available, the amount of funding, and the application process can differ substantially depending on where you live in Maryland.
Diverse Funding Sources
Assistance for Marylanders seeking help paying rent comes from a variety of sources today. These include:
Navigating this network requires understanding which doors to knock on first.
While much assistance is localized, several statewide resources serve as vital starting points or offer specific programs accessible to eligible residents across Maryland.
Many rental assistance programs are managed locally, so resources vary by county. Contact your local government or 2-1-1 Maryland for the most current information. Program details, funding, and application status change frequently.
Anne Arundel County
Residents may find help through the county's Department of Social Services (DSS) offering EAFC. Non-profits like SPAN (410-647-0889) might offer limited aid for court-ordered evictions or utility shut-offs. The STEP program, working through landlords, has also operated here. Contact 2-1-1 or the county website for current details.
Baltimore City
The city uses Community Action Partnership (CAP) Centers for various programs. Check the city's Rental Assistance Program portal for updates, as it was noted closed to new applicants in late 2024. Other resources include Security Deposit Assistance , Water4All discounts , and OHEP energy assistance. Housing Navigators at select libraries offer free consultations. Non-profits like St. Ambrose , Salvation Army , and Elev8 Baltimore may also help. Call CAP Centers at 410-396-5555.
Baltimore County
The county's DHCD manages programs like Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), VASH for veterans, and FSS. The main Eviction Prevention Program intake was paused in late 2024. Residents facing eviction might find help via the Community Assistance Network (CAN) (410-285-4674) , the Family Crisis Center, or legal aid partners. Contact DHCD at 410-887-8383 or dhcd@baltimorecountymd.gov.
Montgomery County
This county has a Rent Stabilization law. The Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) administers HCV, Project-Based Vouchers, Rent Supplement Program (RSP), Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), and Community Choice Homes (CCH). HHS offers a Rental Assistance Program (RAP) (call 240-777-4400). Rockville has its own REAP program. Catholic Charities runs Rapid Re-housing (Homeless Resource Line: 240-907-2688).
Prince George's County
The county's ERAP remains active but focuses on households with active court-ordered evictions, prioritizing very low incomes (below 50% AMI) as of May 2024. Court-filed eviction documents are generally needed. Check status online or call 301-883-6504, option 9. Housing Initiative Partnership (HIP) (301-699-3835) offers application help. Community partners like UCAP , Mission of Love , and Community Legal Services also provide resources.
Other Maryland Counties
If you live elsewhere (e.g., Western Maryland, Eastern Shore), start with 2-1-1 Maryland (https://211md.org/ or dial 2-1-1) and your county government's website. Look for departments related to Housing, Community Development, or Social Services. In some rural areas, the state DHCD directly administers federal programs like Section 8.
Key County Rental Assistance Contacts
| County | Primary Agency/Program Contact | Phone | Website/Portal Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel County | 2-1-1 Maryland / County Website | Dial 2-1-1 | https://211md.org/ / https://www.aacounty.org/ |
| Baltimore City | Community Action Partnership (CAP) Centers | 410-396-5555 | https://www.bmorechildren.com/assistance |
| Baltimore County | Dept. of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) | 410-887-8383 | https://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/housing/ |
| Montgomery County | HHS Services Navigation / HOC | 240-777-4400 | https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/hhs/ / https://www.hocmc.org/ |
| Prince George's County | Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Call Center / DHCD | 301-883-6504 (9) | https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/housing-community-development/community-grants-and-programs/emergency-rental-assistance-program |
Note: Program availability and contact information can change. Always verify directly with the agency.
Eligibility criteria vary significantly between programs. Always check the specific requirements for any program you apply to. Common factors often include:
Meeting basic criteria doesn't guarantee assistance due to eligibility factors and prioritization rules, especially with limited funds.
The application process differs for each program. Following these general steps can help:
Breaking down the process and gathering documents early can make applying less daunting.
Funds are usually paid directly to the landlord or utility company, not the tenant (except the Renters' Tax Credit).
Common eligible expenses include:
Funds generally cannot cover mortgage payments. There are often caps on the total amount or duration of assistance (e.g., federal ERAP limits were around 15-18 months). Specific programs may have lower limits. The amount awarded depends on funding, income, location, and prior assistance.
Struggling with rent often connects to other challenges. Maryland offers resources beyond direct financial aid.
Eviction Prevention and Legal Help
Knowing your rights and seeking legal advice is critical if facing eviction. Free or low-cost legal help is available:
Homelessness Services
If you are homeless or at immediate risk, contact:
Affordable Housing Search
Finding housing within your budget is key. Resources include:
Other Needs
Financial stability involves more than housing. 2-1-1 Maryland and local agencies can connect you with:
Addressing these related needs can significantly improve your situation.
Navigating rent relief in Maryland means understanding the network of state, county, federal, and non-profit resources. While large pandemic-era programs changed, help paying rent and securing stable housing still exists.
If you are struggling, act proactively. Don't wait for an eviction notice or utility shut-off. Reach out early to explore options.
Your best starting points are:
Remember that program details, funding, and eligibility change. Always verify the latest information directly with the administering agency. Taking these steps can help you access the support available for stable housing in Maryland.
As of April 15, 2025, the main statewide Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) portal is generally limiting new applications to households with active court-filed evictions. However, it's crucial to check with your local county or city for any active rental assistance programs.
The best way is to contact your local Department of Housing and Community Development or call 2-1-1 Maryland. They can provide information on local programs, eligibility requirements, and application processes.
These programs often help with past-due rent, utility arrears, security deposits, first month's rent, and sometimes even late fees or court costs related to eviction. The specifics depend on the particular program.
Eligibility often depends on factors like income (typically at or below a certain percentage of the Area Median Income), experiencing financial hardship (often due to COVID-19 impacts in the past, but current programs may have broader criteria), and being at risk of homelessness or housing instability.
Common requirements include proof of residency, a copy of your lease, income verification (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements), documentation of rental arrears or an eviction notice, and identification for all adult household members.
Typically, once approved, the rental assistance payments are made directly to the landlord or the utility company on behalf of the tenant.
Some programs had limits on the total amount of assistance or the duration. It's best to inquire about the specific rules of any program you are considering applying to, as eligibility for previous assistance doesn't guarantee future aid.
It's crucial to act quickly. Contact your local housing authority, legal aid organizations, or call 2-1-1 for advice and potential resources. Attending any scheduled court hearing is also essential to present your case.
Yes, some programs, like the Rental Allowance Program (RAP) in some counties, prioritize individuals experiencing homelessness who also have a disability or are age 55 or older. Check with your local resources for such targeted programs.
Some rental assistance programs may also cover utility arrears. Additionally, Maryland has separate utility assistance programs like the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP), which you can inquire about through your local Department of Social Services or by calling 2-1-1.
Stranded and desperate for shelter tonight? Don't spend another moment exposed to the elements; discover how an emergency hotel voucher could be your lifeline, providing immediate, secure accommodation when you need it most.
Emergency gas vouchers are typically offered by social service organizations and charities to individuals in critical situations. These vouchers provide a pre-paid value for gasoline, enabling you to fill your tank and address your urgent transportation needs.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge to identify and avoid scams, ensuring you receive legitimate help.