Renters and landlords who are experiencing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for financial aid from the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Alabama Program. The program, administered through the Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA), was created to offer relief for renters and landlords struggling to pay current and past due rent and utilities using the state’s $263 million appropriation from the federal government.

Eligible renters and landlords can use the program to apply for help with costs dating as far back as March 13, 2020 and up to three (3) months’ of projected expenses. Not sure if you’re eligible? Click here to learn more about the eligibility requirements.

AHFA will review applications and grant funds to eligible recipients according to prioritization. Learn more about the two priority groups here.

Upon application approval, all payments will be made directly to the landlord and/or utility provider, who must agree to accept the payment. If the landlord and/or utility provider does not accept payment, the funds will be sent directly to the tenant.

To learn more and apply, visit the ERA Alabama website here.