For KCDC residents: Rent assistance now available

Scott BirdUncategorized

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides funds to assist households that have unpaid rent and utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is authorized by the federal government and administered by Knox County. Limited funding is available, and applications will be accepted until all funds are disbursed.

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program may provide relief if any of the following have occurred to you, either directly or indirectly, due to the COVID-19 outbreak:

  • One or more individuals within the household has qualified for unemployment benefits.
  • One or more individuals within the household has experienced any reduction in household income.
  • The household has incurred significant costs such as medical expenses.
  • The household has experienced other financial hardship.

To qualify, KCDC households must have an income below 80% area median income (AMI). Households with an AMI below 50% and/or those who currently are unemployed or have not worked for the past 90 days as a result of COVID-19 will be prioritized.

 

TO APPLY FOR FUNDING

    1. Obtain a KNOX HOUSING ASSISTANCE INCOME SELF-CERTIFICATION FORM from your property manager.
    2. If any of the 5 options apply to your household, please complete the form.
    3. Return the form to your property manager or to the Main Office.
    4. If you have questions, you may call the main office at 403-1100 or Email: [email protected]

KCDC will process your request and the County will notify you when funds are dispersed. It can take 30-60 days for the funding to appear on your KCDC account. Funding is available past or future rent since April 2020 for a maximum of 18 months.

 

MORE ABOUT EMERGENCY FUNDS

The Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 provides rent and utility assistance for families negatively affected by COVID-19. While it does not stop eviction for other non-payment reasons, it will provide funding for tenant families who owe back rent or utilities as a result of a reduction in hours worked or job loss. Funds are available for future rent and utility payments as well.

Aid is available for a total of 12 months with the possibility to add an additional three months based on hardship.

If approved, funding will be sent directly to your landlord or utility provider to clear outstanding balances.