Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) - ERAP helps District residents with incomes that do not exceed 40% of the Area Median Income (AMI) who are facing housing emergencies, by providing funding for overdue rent if a qualified household is facing eviction (including late costs and court fees). The program also supports security deposits and the first month's rent. ERAP may provide up to five (5) times HUD’s Rental Reasonable guideline for the zip code and bedroom size. Eligible households may apply for ERAP up to two (2) times in a single twelve (12) month period from the date of the first application, during the public health emergency, and within 60 days of the end of a public health emergency, to access the rent assistance within the eligibility cap. Click here to read more about this program.
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) assists low-income residents who are facing a housing emergency and provides rent assistance to stabilize housing, re-establish housing, and prevent eviction.
ERAP can help to pay the following:
• Overdue rent (at least 30 days) including late fees and court costs
• Security deposit for a new residence and/or first month's rent ERAP does not provide assistance with utilities or mortgage payments.
Who is eligible for ERAP?
You must be a resident of the District of Columbia, and your income must be less than 40% of the Area Median Income (AMI) according to the household size.
Does ERAP assist with past due rent payments and/or a security deposit?
If determined eligible for ERAP, residents are provided with an overview of their payment responsibilities and costs covered by the program.
Are there limits on how much ERAP can pay?
ERAP may provide up to five (5) months per HUD’s Rental Reasonable guideline per the zip code and bedroom size. The revised average five months rental payment is high as $10,205. Eligible households may apply up to twice within a calendar year during a public health emergency and within 60 days of the end of a public health emergency. For security deposits and the first month’s rent, ERAP can pay up to the Fair Market Rent for one (1) month.
Will ERAP give me the money directly?
ERAP will make its payment directly to the landlord, court, or court marshals. No money will be given to you directly.
Throughout the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, all applications are completed online or by phone. To apply online, please visit dhs.dc.gov/ERAPApp. Residents may also contact a community-based organizations for application assistance. Residents must complete an application and submit required information to participate in an eligibility interview. Case management services are available to further assist residents participating in ERAP.