As the Supreme Court made the decision to resume evictions across the United States in August, it's important for renters to know what tools and resources they have to be able to stay inside their homes.
An estimated 3.5 million people in the United States said they may face eviction following the expired moratorium, according to recent Census Bureau data.
"In light of the Supreme Court ruling and the continued risk of COVID-19 transmission, President Biden is once again calling on all entities that can prevent evictions – from cities and states to local courts, landlords, Cabinet Agencies – to urgently act to prevent evictions," said President Biden's Administration.
In addition, The Texas Rent Relief Program closed its new application, additional funding request portal on Friday, Nov. 5.
Below are some ways renters in Central Texas can find the assistance they may need:
Stop TX Eviction offers free information and resources such as legal information and documentation you may need, access to applications for free legal assistance, and other local programs that may be available in your area to aid with rent relief. The site also lists information about the Texas Eviction Diversion Program, created by The Texas Supreme Court to help both tenants and landlords, both the tenant and the landlord must agree to participate and meet the program requirements.
211 Texas is a hotline that can be dialed (2-1-1) to reach the Texas Information & Referral Network (TIRN). The Network is available to assist with food, housing, child care, or other emergency services. The network has already assisted 25 percent of McLennan County residents with service requests regarding housing and shelter.
The U.S. Department for Housing and Urban Development lists resources for renters such as housing counselors, emergency rental assistance programs, information on local and state protections, protections through the non-profit organization The Eviction Lab, and more.
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs received $1.3 billion in Emergency Rental Assistance funds from the newly passed Coronavirus Relief Bill. The website helps renters find help in three steps, the process will give you the contact information for a provider in your local area that has the funds to assist individuals. Assistance and funds go to local provider organizations, not individuals.
