Are you a Colorado resident struggling to pay rent and facing potential eviction? Understanding available resources is crucial. This guide answers common questions about rental assistance programs in Colorado, helping you navigate your options and find the support you need. We’ll delve into the details of programs designed to keep Coloradans in their homes, focusing on key aspects like eligibility, application processes, and what assistance covers.
Understanding Rent Assistance Programs in Colorado
What Exactly is Rent Assistance?
Rent assistance programs, like the initiatives funded by the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), provide crucial financial aid to Colorado renters who are behind on payments. These programs are designed for individuals and families meeting specific income requirements and facing eviction or displacement. The goal is to offer a safety net, ensuring housing stability for vulnerable residents.
Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) vs. Federal ERA Programs: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to distinguish between different types of rental assistance. The earlier Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program utilized federal funds. In contrast, the Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) program is a state-funded initiative, supported by Proposition 123.
While the application process and maximum assistance amounts remain similar between ERA and CERA, some key eligibility changes are in place for CERA:
- Income Limits: The Area Median Income (AMI) limit has been adjusted from 80% to 60%, meaning the program now targets households with lower incomes.
- Lookback Period: The income review period has extended from 12 to 24 months, providing a longer window to assess financial need.
- Assistance Cap: Notably, the 18-month lifetime assistance cap that applied under the ERA program is not in effect for the CERA program, potentially offering more extended support to eligible households.
For a comprehensive understanding of these changes effective from January 21, 2025, refer to the notifications on the DOLA Emergency Rental Assistance website.
Who Qualifies for Rent Assistance in Colorado?
To be eligible for emergency rental assistance in Colorado, individuals must meet specific criteria:
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Colorado.
- Valid Lease: A valid Colorado lease agreement is required.
- Income Limits: Household income must be at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their county. To check income eligibility based on your location, you can consult the HUD website’s income limits data.
- Risk of Eviction or Displacement: Applicants must demonstrate a risk of eviction or displacement, which includes the following circumstances:
- Being behind on rent payments.
- Receiving a formal demand for rent payment from the landlord. This can include various notices such as a demand notice, eviction notice, active eviction action, notice of non-payment, or a notice to quit. Evidence of ongoing mediation as per HB 23-1120, a sheriff’s notice, or a court summons (Forcible Entry and Detainer) also qualify.
- Lacking other available funds to cover the overdue rent.
- Not having received emergency rental assistance from any local, state, or federal program within the past 24 months.
Can Previous Recipients Reapply for Rent Assistance?
Yes, if you have previously received rental assistance, you may be eligible to reapply. If it has been at least 24 months since your last rental assistance payment, and you currently meet all other eligibility requirements, you can complete the pre-application process again.
Is Rent Assistance Available for Mobile Homes and Mobile Home Lots?
Renters of mobile homes or mobile home lots are indeed eligible for assistance. If you meet all the general eligibility criteria, you can apply for help to cover your mobile home rent and associated lot fees. This assistance extends to rental payments for both the manufactured home itself and the land it occupies. Furthermore, households renting manufactured housing or lots may also receive support for utilities and other eligible housing-related expenses.
Applying for Rent Assistance: Key Application Questions
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for Rent Assistance?
A complete rent assistance application requires specific documentation to verify eligibility and need. Essential documents include:
- Valid ID: Government-issued photo identification.
- Valid Colorado Lease: Proof of a current lease agreement in Colorado.
- Eviction Risk Documentation: Court documents and/or a demand notice from your landlord demonstrating the risk of eviction or displacement (as detailed in the eligibility section).
- Updated Income Information: Documentation to verify current household income.
For detailed information on acceptable documents and specific requirements, please visit the DOLA Emergency Rental Assistance website.
How and When Can I Apply for Colorado Rent Assistance?
The application process for Colorado rent assistance begins with a pre-application available on the DOLA website. Due to funding limitations, a random selection process is used. A limited number of pre-applicants are chosen monthly or bimonthly and invited to submit a full application for rental assistance.
The Department announces pre-application periods on the DOLA website. These periods are typically short, often around three days each month, while funding is available.
If selected, applicants will receive an email invitation to complete the full application through an online portal. It’s crucial to complete the full application and submit all required documents within the specified seven-day timeframe to be considered for assistance.
For updates on pre-application opening dates and step-by-step application instructions, please refer to the DOLA Emergency Rental Assistance website.
How Will I Know If My Pre-Application is Selected?
If your pre-application is selected in the random draw, you will be notified via email. This email will contain an invitation to complete the full application on the Neighborly online portal, along with detailed instructions for the next steps.
It is important to note that being selected for the full application does not guarantee that you will receive assistance. Final approval and funding are contingent upon completing the full application by the deadline, providing all necessary documentation, and fully meeting all eligibility requirements.
What Happens If My Pre-Application Isn’t Selected?
If your pre-application is not selected in a particular cycle, you will receive an email notification. This email will also provide information about other resources and alternative options for rental assistance that may be available to you.
Can I Reapply If I’m Not Initially Selected for Assistance?
Yes, you can reapply if you are not selected in a previous pre-application period. When the State re-opens pre-applications for the next funding cycle, you are welcome to submit a new pre-application.
Is the Application Portal Available in Languages Other Than English?
Yes, the online application portal is designed to be accessible in multiple languages. You can select your preferred language within the portal under ‘User Options’ in ‘My Profile’.
If you require further translation assistance to complete your application in Spanish or another language, please contact the CARE Center for support at 1 (303) 838-1200. The CARE Center is available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
What Should I Do If the Pre-Application is Closed?
If you are trying to apply and find that the pre-application period is currently closed, you will need to wait until the next application cycle opens. To inquire about other available resources and explore immediate options, contact the CARE Center by phone or text at 1 (303) 838-1200. They are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time, and can provide information on alternative assistance programs.
Understanding Rent Assistance: Amounts, Coverage, and Next Steps
How Much Rent Assistance Can I Receive Through CERA?
The Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) program provides a maximum assistance amount of seven (7) months of rent or $10,000, whichever is less. The actual amount awarded is determined based on the applicant household’s past-due rent balance, as assessed during the application process. While some limited prospective rent assistance may be available in certain situations, all awards remain subject to the overall maximum limits.
What Specific Expenses Does Rent Assistance Cover?
Rent assistance is primarily intended to cover your overdue rental payments on a short-term basis. It may also be used to cover essential fees directly related to preventing your displacement, ensuring you can maintain stable housing.
Who Handles My Application and Payment Processing?
The State of Colorado collaborates with various non-profit organizations to administer rental assistance. One of these partner non-profits will be assigned to review your application, contact you if additional information is needed, and ultimately process your payment if approved.
It is crucial to respond promptly if you are contacted by representatives from one of these non-profit partners to ensure your application progresses smoothly. If you have questions about the status of your application or need to know which organization is handling it, please contact the CARE Center at 1 (303) 838-1200 (call or text), Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
How Can I Check My Rent Assistance Application Status?
After submitting your rent assistance application, you should receive a confirmation email containing a link to the application portal. You can track the status of your application by logging into this portal using your credentials.
Once your application is under review, you will be contacted directly by one of the non-profit provider organizations if they require further information or have additional questions. If you have been contacted by a provider, please communicate directly with them for updates and to address any questions about your application’s status.
For general inquiries or if you haven’t been contacted by a provider and have further questions, reach out to the CARE Center at 1 (303) 838-1200 (call or text), Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
What If My Rent Assistance Application is Denied Due to Documentation? Can I Reapply?
If your application was denied because of inadequate documentation, you can reapply. When the State opens pre-applications again for a new cycle, you are eligible to submit a new pre-application.
Furthermore, if you believe your application was wrongfully denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. Detailed instructions on how to appeal will be provided in your denial letter.
Specific Questions for Renters and Landlords
For Renters/Applicants:
I Made a Mistake on My Pre-Application! What Should I Do?
If you made a mistake on your pre-application, specifically if you forgot to attach your demand notice, court summons, or other eviction-related document, contact the CARE Center immediately. You can reach them by calling or texting 1 (303) 838-1200, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
Other types of errors in your pre-application can generally be addressed if you are selected to proceed to the full application stage.
Can I Submit a Second Application or Resubmit My Application?
No, applicants are limited to submitting the pre-application form only once per pre-application period. Duplicate submissions are not permitted.
Can Someone Else Apply for Rent Assistance on My Behalf?
Generally, applicants are expected to apply for rent assistance themselves. However, if you are unable to access email, the internet, or require other forms of assistance to complete the pre-application, you should contact the CARE Center for help. Call 1 (303) 838-1200, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time, for assistance with submitting your pre-application.
If you are selected to complete a full application and require support with that process, you can also contact the CARE Center using the same contact information.
Do I Need to Disclose My Immigration Status or Citizenship to Apply?
No, you are not required to provide any documentation related to your citizenship or immigration status when applying for rent assistance. However, you will need to upload a form of identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Valid driver’s license or identification card issued by any U.S. State or Territory.
- U.S. military ID or military dependent identification card.
- U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner card.
- Native American Tribal Document.
- Document issued by any U.S. or foreign government entity.
- Document issued by a U.S. or foreign educational institution.
For Landlords/Property Managers:
Can I Apply for Rent Assistance on Behalf of My Tenant?
No, landlords or property managers cannot apply for rent assistance directly on behalf of a tenant. The tenant must initiate the application process themselves.
What Documents Are Required from Landlords Once a Tenant’s Application is Being Processed?
Once a tenant’s application is being processed and involves your property, you will need to provide certain verification documents. These typically include:
- Verification of Tenancy: Documentation confirming the tenancy for the period for which rent assistance is requested (e.g., a current lease agreement).
- Landlord Financial Information: A W9 form dated within the past six (6) months.
Additional verification documents may be requested by DOLA or partner agencies on a case-by-case basis. Landlords providing a Social Security number (SSN) instead of an Employer Identification Number (EIN) will also be required to submit a form of personal identification (state ID, driver’s license, etc.).
How and When Will Landlords Receive Rent Assistance Payments?
Non-profit partner organizations are dedicated to processing applications as quickly as possible. The aim is to review complete applications within four to six (4-6) weeks of submission. After all required application materials are received and the application is approved, landlords can generally expect to receive payment within approximately fourteen (14) days.
