Quick answer
Rent relief today comes from local, state, and charity programs, not the federal Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program: Treasury says the last ERA funding period ended on September 30, 2025. To find help that is still open, dial 211, check your city, county, or state housing agency, and ask local charities. If you have an eviction notice, contact free legal aid right away. Applying for official programs is always free.
Find rent help in your state
Official programs first. Applying is always free.
Rent relief by need
| Need | Where to start | Our guide |
|---|---|---|
| Past-due rent this month | 211 and your local housing agency | Programs to help pay rent |
| Checking if ERA is still open | Your state or city program site | Emergency Rental Assistance Program status |
| Help from charities | Salvation Army and local churches | Salvation Army rental assistance |
| A security deposit for a new place | Local charities and 211 | Charities that help with a rent deposit |
| Long-term help with rent | Your public housing agency | Housing Choice Voucher Program |
| Behind on utilities too | LIHEAP through your state | Utility relief programs |
State-by-state status is in our rent relief programs guide.
How emergency rental assistance works now
The federal Emergency Rental Assistance program sent billions to states and cities during the pandemic, but Treasury says the ERA2 funding period ended on September 30, 2025, and grantees can no longer use ERA2 money to help renters. What remains are programs run by cities, counties, states, and charities, often paid for with other federal or local funds. They may help with past-due rent, and sometimes upcoming rent and utilities. Funds usually go directly to your landlord, and priority typically goes to households below area income limits and those at risk of eviction. Most help is a grant, not a loan, but ask the program to be sure. Money is limited, so some programs open and close during the year.
What to gather before applying
- ID and proof of residence (lease or utility bill)
- Proof of income for household members (pay stubs, benefit letters)
- Your past-due notice or landlord's ledger showing what's owed
- Landlord contact information — programs usually pay them directly
If you've received an eviction notice
Deadlines are short — act the day you receive it. Get free legal help through LawHelp.org, respond to the court by the deadline (not responding is how most tenants lose), and tell the rental assistance program you have a notice — it often moves you to the front of the line.
Frequently asked questions
Is emergency rental assistance still available?
The federal ERA program has ended; Treasury says its last funding period closed on September 30, 2025. Some cities, counties, states, and charities still run their own rent help programs. Dial 211 to find what is open near you.
Can I get rent help more than once?
Often yes, up to program limits on total months of assistance. Ask your local program about caps.
Does my landlord have to participate?
Programs generally need landlord cooperation to pay them directly, though some can pay tenants when a landlord refuses. Your caseworker will know your program's rule.
Will this affect my credit or immigration status?
Receiving emergency rental assistance doesn't appear on credit reports. For immigration questions, ask the program — many local programs serve households regardless of status.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on October 25, 2026. If a source and this page ever disagree, follow the source.
- Emergency Rental Assistance Program (U.S. Treasury)
- Find help with rent and utilities (CFPB)
- 211.org (United Way)
- LawHelp.org (free legal aid directory)
- Talk to a housing counselor (HUD)
This page is general information, not legal advice. National Relief Program is an independent website, not a government agency. Applying for official programs is always free.
Before you apply: program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program administrator. Applying for government benefits is free.
National Relief Program is an independent guide, not a government agency. Spotted an error? Email support@nationalreliefprogram.org.