Thousands of Iowans may be eligible for rental and utility assistance this year, and Iowa Attorney General, Tom Miller, is urging them to research the resources available. “The pandemic has resulted in many losses for Iowans, including their homes,” he says. “Renters who have experienced hardship as a result of the pandemic are in need of help. There are several programs in our state that seek to address these issues, and I urge Iowans to seek this vital assistance.” Those who are in need of immediate rental help due to a pending eviction should apply to the Iowa Rent and Utility Assistance Program, which is managed by the Iowa Finance Authority. Renters outside of Polk and Linn Counties may be eligible for up to 12 months in back payment assistance for renters at risk of eviction due to a financial hardship directly tied to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants must meet income qualifications of no more than 80 percent of the area median income and demonstrate the risk of homelessness or housing instability, which could include a past due utility or rent notice or eviction order. They must also provide proof of impact with at least one member of the household having qualified for unemployment between March of 2020 and the date of application or experienced a reduction in household income, incurring of significant costs or other financial hardships directly tied to the coronavirus. Free legal aid may also be available and contact information to determine eligibility can be found below.
To find out if you are eligible for free legal aid:
Iowa Legal Aid
Phone: 800-532-1275
Online: www.iowalegalaid.org
