Wyoming Rent Relief: A Directory of Active Financial Assistance Programs

Finding help with Wyoming rent relief can feel overwhelming, especially when facing financial hardship. For residents struggling to maintain housing stability, understanding where to turn for financial support is the first and most critical step.

The landscape of assistance has changed, but a dedicated network of local organizations, utility support programs, and legal aid services continues to provide a crucial safety net for renters across the state. This directory offers a clear and direct path to identifying and accessing the active financial assistance programs currently available to Wyomingites.

The Current Status of Statewide Rental Assistance in Wyoming

A significant shift has occurred in how rental assistance is distributed in Wyoming. The primary, federally funded statewide program has concluded, transitioning the state's support system back to a more traditional, localized model. Understanding this change is essential for anyone seeking help.

End of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

Wyoming's statewide Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), a major source of aid, officially closed to new applications on June 30, 2023. This program was a U.S. Treasury initiative established through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and later expanded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

During its operation, Wyoming distributed hundreds of millions in federal funding to over 17,000 households. This aid covered past-due and future rent, utility payments, and other housing stability costs. The conclusion of this large-scale program marked a return to the pre-pandemic support structure.

Transition to a Localized Support Network

With the closure of the statewide ERAP, Wyoming did not implement a new, centralized state-funded rental assistance program. Instead, the responsibility for providing emergency housing aid has fully reverted to a decentralized network of county-based non-profits and community action agencies.

This shift means that a resident's ability to find help now depends on navigating different local organizations, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process. The challenge for renters is identifying the correct local "door" to knock on.

Statewide Gateways: Your First Call for Help

While direct rent relief is now managed locally, several statewide gateways serve as essential starting points. These organizations act as navigators, providing expert guidance and crucial referrals. Contacting these hubs should be the first step in any search for assistance.

Wyoming 211: The Central Information Hub

Wyoming 211 is the state's most critical first point of contact for social services, including housing assistance. It functions as a comprehensive information and referral service, connecting individuals with the most up-to-date resources in their local area.

There are several ways to connect with Wyoming 211:

• Phone: Dial 2-1-1 or 1-888-425-7138 to speak with a specialist.
• Text: Text your zip code to 898211.
• Online: Use the searchable online database or download the Wyoming 211 mobile app.

Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS): Utility and Energy Assistance

The Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) remains a key source of assistance through its energy and utility programs. While DFS does not offer direct rental assistance, its services provide a powerful form of indirect rent relief. By covering a significant utility bill, a family can free up funds that can then be allocated toward rent.

Key programs offered by DFS include:

• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): This federally funded program helps low-income households pay their primary heating bills during the winter months.
• Eligibility: Qualification is based on household size and pre-tax income at or below 60% of the state's median income. The program serves both homeowners and renters.
• Application: The application period opens on September 2 for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children. It opens on October 1 for all other eligible households. Apply at lieapwyo.org or call 1-800-246-4221.
• Wyoming Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): This program helps reduce long-term energy costs by making homes more energy-efficient at no cost to the resident. Approved LIEAP applicants are automatically considered for WAP services.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in Wyoming

HUD provides long-term housing solutions and critical guidance for renters. While HUD does not typically offer emergency financial assistance, its resources are invaluable for preventing eviction and securing sustainable housing.

• HUD-Approved Housing Counselors: These counselors offer free, expert advice on budgeting, avoiding eviction, and communicating with landlords. Wyoming Housing Network can be reached at (307) 472-5843, or you can call the national hotline at (800) 569-4287.
• Public Housing Authorities (PHAs): Local PHAs administer long-term rental assistance programs like Public Housing and the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8). These programs often have long waiting lists, but it is advisable to contact a local PHA to inquire about eligibility.

County and Regional Rent Relief: A Local Directory of Programs

Direct financial assistance for rent is now primarily available through a network of community action agencies and non-profit organizations serving specific counties or regions.

Quick Reference: Wyoming Rent Assistance Programs by County

Detailed Agency Profiles

Securing aid from local agencies requires a formal application process. Applicants should be prepared to provide documents such as proof of income, a current lease, state-issued identification, and evidence of the financial crisis. Calling ahead is crucial as many agencies work by appointment only.

Community Action Partnership of Natrona County (CAPNC)

• Counties Served: Natrona and Converse counties.
• Services: The Emergency Services Program offers assistance with rent, utilities, rental deposits, transportation, and more to prevent homelessness.
• Eligibility: Services are for those facing eviction or utility disconnection. Income must generally be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Application Process: Assistance is by appointment only. Call the appropriate office to schedule an intake meeting.
• Contact Information:
• Natrona County: (307) 232-0124.  
• Converse County: (307) 251-0960.

WyoHelp

• Counties Served: Carbon, Crook, Goshen, Niobrara, Washakie, and Weston counties.
• Services: The primary focus is providing rent and utility payment assistance to prevent housing instability.
• Eligibility: Requirements vary by funding source. An income calculator is available on the WyoHelp website.
• Application Process: Applications are initiated online through the agency's website. Be aware that payments are not made on the same day an application is submitted.
• Contact Information:
• Phone: (307) 532-0269.
• Email: intake@wyohelp.com.
• Text: 307-269-8488.

One22 Resource Center

• County Served: Teton County.
• Services: Provides one-time financial help with rent payments, limited to once per 12-month period. 
• Eligibility: Applicants must meet strict criteria, including:
• Continuous employment of at least 30 hours per week in Teton County for the past six months.
• A rent-to-income ratio of 50% or less.
• Household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income.
• Application Process: This is a formal, three-step process involving an online application, a one-on-one meeting, and submission of required documents. Funding decisions are made monthly with specific deadlines.
• Contact Information:
• Phone: (307) 739-4500.

Other Key Local Organizations

• Yellowstone Country Assistance Network (YCAN): Serves Park County with one-time financial assistance for rent and utilities for income-qualified residents.
• Family Promise of Albany County: Runs homelessness prevention programs in Laramie that can include rent and utility assistance.
• Salvation Army Service Extension Units: Operates in numerous communities, offering emergency financial assistance to low-income households.
• The Help Center: Serves Hot Springs County residents with assistance for rental and utility deposits.

Specialized Assistance for Specific Wyoming Populations

Several programs are designed to provide housing stability for distinct populations, such as veterans and survivors of domestic violence. These programs often offer more holistic support.

Assistance for Veterans

The Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, administered by Volunteers of America (VOA) Northern Rockies, is the primary resource for veterans facing housing instability.

• Services: The SSVF program provides case management, help with VA benefits, and direct financial aid. This aid can be used for rent, security deposits, and even essential car repairs needed to maintain employment.
• How to Access: Veterans should contact their local VOA Northern Rockies office in Cheyenne, Riverton, or Sheridan to inquire about eligibility.

Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking

The Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (WCADVSA) provides critical support for survivors needing safe housing.

• Services: Housing Stability Services are tailored to survivor needs and can include funds for security measures (like new locks), relocation costs, and application fees.
• How to Access: To learn more, contact WCADVSA directly at (307) 755-5481.

Resources for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Seniors and individuals with disabilities are often given priority access to assistance programs.

• Priority Access: These populations are eligible for the priority application period for the statewide LIEAP program, which opens on September 2.
• Specialized Services: The Wyoming Department of Health's Aging Division administers funding for Housing Stability Services to help seniors and individuals with disabilities remain in their homes.
• Contact: For information, call the Aging Division Information Line at (800) 442-2766.

Eviction Prevention and Your Legal Rights as a Tenant

For many renters, the search for financial assistance is driven by the immediate threat of eviction. Understanding the legal eviction process in Wyoming is crucial, as it provides windows of opportunity to seek help or secure legal representation.

Understanding the Wyoming Eviction Process

A landlord in Wyoming cannot legally change the locks or shut off utilities to force a tenant out. They must follow a formal legal process known as a "forcible entry and detainer" (FED) action.

The process involves three key steps:

1. The Notice to Quit: The process begins with a formal written notice. For non-payment of rent, this is a 3-Day Notice to Quit. This notice gives the tenant three days to pay the full rent owed or move out. This is a critical window to contact an assistance agency.
2. The Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) Lawsuit: If the tenant does not comply, the landlord files an eviction lawsuit with the Circuit Court. The tenant is then served with a Summons and Complaint, which states the court hearing date, typically set for 3 to 12 days later.
3. The Court Hearing and Writ of Restitution: The tenant has the right to appear at the court hearing to present their case. If the judge rules in the landlord's favor, they will issue a   Writ of Restitution. This court order authorizes the Sheriff to physically remove the tenant from the property, usually within two days.

Accessing Free Legal Assistance for Eviction Defense

Navigating an eviction lawsuit alone can be difficult. Several organizations in Wyoming provide free legal services to low-income residents.

• Legal Aid of Wyoming: This is the primary organization providing free legal assistance to eligible tenants. Their attorneys can provide advice, help negotiate with landlords, and sometimes offer direct representation in court.
• Statewide Hotline: 1-877-432-9955.
• Online Application: Apply for help at lawyoming.org.
• Wyoming Judicial Branch Self-Help Center: The state court system's website offers resources, including explanations of the eviction process and downloadable legal forms.
• Wyoming Free Legal Answers: This virtual legal advice clinic allows qualifying users to post legal questions online to be answered for free by volunteer attorneys.
• Equal Justice Wyoming: This organization works to improve access to the justice system and can be another source of information and referral for legal help.

 Frequently Asked Questions