Maine Rent Relief Program – Money Available Now

In case you haven't heard about this program, it's called "The COVID-19 Rent Relief Program" and it is for renters who cannot afford to pay their rent due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

This program expands upon previous rent relief programs through MaineHousing. One of the best things about this program is that you can apply for this expanded program even if you applied and received funds before. Another great benefit is this program now includes people who live in MaineHousing financed properties and do not have a Section 8 voucher or receive other governmental rental assistance. That was not included in previous funding.

Keep in mind this program is first come, first served and can help cover October, November, and December rent. The COVID-19 Rent Relief Program will allow you to  apply for up to $1000/month for each month, again, even if you received funds in other rounds of the program.

You may apply for October and November rent as of November 2, 2020. As for looking ahead to December program applications, those will begin being accepted on November 23rd.

As far as the process, renters apply and the benefit is paid directly to the landlord or property management company. The landlords or property managers agree to postpone the balance of the payment, not forgive it, when they agree to participate. In addition, they also agrees not to evict for non-payment of rent for the months for which the COVID-19 Rent Relief was applied.

To apply simply go to mainehousing.org/covidrent. Click on the 2020 COVID-19 Rent Relief Application. Select your county and fill out the application and submit it as directed.