BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York State is helping those struggling to pay their rent.
Governor Cuomo saying the program will provide direct aid for tenants who lost income from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Since day one we made it clear that no New Yorkers should be thrown on the streets because of hardships caused by this pandemic ... It's critically important that people are able to stay safely in their homes as we progress through our data-driven, phased reopening, and the COVID Rent Relief Program reinforces that commitment with direct assistance to those in the greatest need."
Governor Andrew Cuomo
Eligible households will receive a one-time rental subsidy paid directly to landlords and housing providers, and tenants will not be required to repay the assistance.
In order to qualify, applicants will need to meet all of the requirements:
- Must be a renter with a primary residence in New York State.
- Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, household income (including unemployment benefits) must be below 80 percent of the Area Median Income, adjusted for household size. Applicants can find the Area Median Income for their county, based on household size, on HCR's website here.
- Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, the household must have been "rent burdened," which is defined as paying more than 30 percent of gross monthly income towards rent.
- Applicants must have lost income during any period between April 1, 2020 and July 31, 2020.
- The application period will be open for two weeks. Residents can apply any time during the two-week period.
The program will be funded through the Coronavirus Relief Fund, and will be administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal.
The program begins on Thursday, applications will be available here.
More information on the state's COVID-19 Rent Relief Program can be found here.
