Maryland’s Rent Relief Program is back

Applications open Feb. 20

The state has allocated $275 million to help tenants and homeowners pay rent and utilities

Marylanders who are struggling to pay their rent or mortgage due to the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for financial assistance through the state’s rent relief program.

The program, which is funded by the federal government, provides financial assistance to tenants and homeowners who have experienced a loss of income due to the pandemic. The assistance can be used to pay for rent, mortgage payments, and utilities.

To be eligible, applicants must meet certain income requirements and must have been financially impacted by the pandemic.

The program is administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Applications will be accepted online and by mail starting on Feb. 20.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for the rent relief program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a Maryland resident
• Have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income
• Have experienced a loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic

How to apply

Applications for the rent relief program can be submitted online or by mail.

To apply online, visit the DHCD website at https://dhcd.maryland.gov/RentRelief.

To apply by mail, download the application from the DHCD website and mail it to the following address:

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Attn: Rent Relief Program

701 E. Pratt Street, Suite 1500

Baltimore, MD 21202

What is the deadline?

The deadline to apply for the rent relief program is March 31, 2023.

What is the maximum amount of assistance that I can receive?

The maximum amount of assistance that you can receive through the rent relief program is $3,000 per month.

How will I receive my assistance?

If you are approved for assistance, you will receive your payment through direct deposit or by mail.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any other questions about the rent relief program, you can contact the DHCD at 410-230-6142 or by email at rentrelief@dhcd.maryland.gov.

Additional resources:

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Conclusion:

The Maryland rent relief program is a valuable resource for Marylanders who are struggling to pay their rent or mortgage due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides financial assistance to help tenants and homeowners make ends meet during these challenging times.