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Financial aid is available for Colorado renters struggling to pay rent and facing potential eviction. The main statewide resource is the Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) program, which offers direct financial support to eligible households.
The support landscape is a mix of state, county, and city-level programs. This means the best assistance for you might come from a local source. Navigating these options is key to securing the aid you need. This breakdown provides a clear map to the state program and significant local rent relief resources across Colorado.
Colorado Rental Assistance Programs at a Glance
| Program Name | Service Area | Key Eligibility Snapshot | Primary Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| CERA | Statewide | At risk of eviction; Income below 60% Area Median Income (AMI) | DOH Monthly Random Selection |
| TRUA | City & County of Denver | Active eviction case or demand for rent; Income below 80% AMI | Denvergov.org Portal |
| EPRAS | City of Boulder | Facing potential eviction | Online form or phone call |
| Arapahoe County HAP | Arapahoe County (outside Aurora) | Income below 80% AMI | County Online Portal |
| El Paso County Resources | El Paso County | Varies by agency (e.g., Catholic Charities, Greccio) | Direct contact with local agencies |
The Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) program is the state’s primary source of funding for tenants at risk of displacement. Administered by the Colorado Division of Housing (DOH), this is a free service, and you should never be asked to pay to apply.
Following the end of broad federal pandemic-era funds, CERA now operates with state funding. This has led to a more targeted, crisis-focused approach. The program is designed as a last-resort eviction prevention tool, not a general poverty-alleviation fund.
Core Eligibility for State Rental Assistance
To qualify for CERA, you must meet a strict set of criteria. These rules direct limited resources to those facing the most immediate threat of losing their homes.
How to Apply for CERA: The Random Selection Process
Access to CERA funds is not first-come, first-served. Due to high demand, the state uses a lottery-based system. Understanding the two pathways to enter the lottery is key to maximizing your chances.
For questions, the CARE Center is the primary contact. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
Financial Support Provided by CERA
If your application is approved, the assistance is designed to stabilize your housing. The program has clear limits on the aid provided.
Essential Documents for Your Application
Gather all necessary paperwork before you begin to ensure your application can be processed smoothly. You will need to upload clear copies of these documents.
While CERA is the statewide program, some of Colorado's largest counties and cities run their own rental assistance funds. These local programs often have different rules and may be your best source of aid.
Denver County: The TRUA Program
Residents of the City and County of Denver can access the Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program.
El Paso County: A Network of Community Partners
El Paso County distributes rental assistance through a network of non-profit organizations. Residents must contact these agencies directly to apply.
Arapahoe County: The Housing Assistance Program
Arapahoe County offers a dedicated Housing Assistance Program with specific geographic boundaries.
Boulder: Eviction Prevention and Financial Aid (EPRAS)
The City of Boulder has a comprehensive program that combines financial aid with legal and mediation services.
If you are facing an immediate crisis or need help navigating assistance programs, several organizations serve as central hubs for information.
Your First Call for Any Crisis: 2-1-1 Colorado
For any resident facing an immediate housing or food crisis, the most effective first step is to contact 2-1-1 Colorado. The state government has designated the 2-1-1 system as its primary crisis response partner.
The Colorado Division of Housing explicitly directs individuals facing eviction or homelessness to call 2-1-1. This confidential, multilingual service connects you to local resources for emergency shelter, food, and rental assistance, making it the most efficient starting point.
Key Non-Profit and Community Organizations
Beyond government programs, a network of non-profit organizations provides critical housing support.
If you have received a formal eviction notice or court summons, seeking legal help is a critical step. Legal aid organizations can defend your rights and help you access financial assistance.
Where to Find Free or Low-Cost Legal Help
Several non-profit organizations in Colorado provide free or low-cost legal representation to tenants facing eviction.
Understanding Your Rights as a Colorado Renter
Knowing your rights empowers you in negotiations with your landlord. In recent years, Colorado has enacted several new laws to strengthen protections for renters.
Availability for the statewide Colorado rent relief program, known as CERA, opens during specific application windows. However, various city and county-level programs open and close based on funding. It is essential to check the official DOLA website for state program status and your local housing authority for regional updates.
The statewide CERA program may provide a maximum of $10,000 or up to seven months of rent, whichever is less. Financial limits for local rental assistance programs in cities like Denver or Boulder can vary, so you should verify the specific details with the local agency administering the funds.
Yes, many programs providing emergency rental assistance also offer financial aid for past-due utility bills. This often includes electricity, gas, water, and trash services. This support is typically provided alongside rent payments to help stabilize a household’s housing situation and prevent service disconnection.
Yes, applicants with a formal court summons or an eviction notice often receive priority status. For the statewide CERA program, these tenants can apply through a separate, daily random selection process at a CARE Center, increasing their chances of receiving immediate attention for eviction prevention.
A valid, signed lease is a standard requirement for nearly every Colorado rent relief program. This document is necessary to prove you are a resident of the property, verify your landlord-tenant relationship, and confirm the monthly rent amount you are obligated to pay.
Funds are almost always paid directly to the landlord or the utility company on the tenant's behalf. This process ensures the assistance is used for its intended purpose—covering rent and utility arrears. Applicants typically do not receive the money directly.
You may still qualify for local assistance. Some municipal programs, like Denver's TRUA, have higher income limits (e.g., up to 80% of the Area Median Income) compared to the state program's 60% AMI threshold. Always investigate rent relief options offered by your specific city or county.
Eligibility often depends on the program's specific funding source and rules, not necessarily on citizenship status. Many local and state programs focus on Colorado residency and meeting income requirements. Check the specific program's guidelines, as you may still be eligible for assistance.
If you are not selected, you should reapply during the next open application period. In the meantime, immediately contact 2-1-1 Colorado or seek help from local non-profit organizations. They can connect you with other potential emergency aid or eviction prevention services that may be available.
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