There’s been lots of talk and confusion whether or not the Connecticut UniteCT program (this name might sound familiar from prime-Covid tenant financial relief) is back with more funding. While the exact program that ran about a year or two ago is no longer operating, it is true that the Department of Housing has received additional funding and is offering the Eviction Prevention Fund (EPF), a program that can help your tenants stay in their homes if they are facing eviction. The EPF is funded by the UniteCT program, which is a federal program that provides rental assistance to low-income households.
To be eligible for the EPF, your tenant must meet the following criteria:
- They must be a resident of Connecticut.
- They must have a pending eviction action against them.
- Their household income must be below 80% of the area median income.
- They must be able to pay their rent with the assistance of the EPF.
If your tenant is eligible for the EPF, they can receive up to $15,000 in rental assistance. This assistance can be used to pay their past due rent, their current rent, or their security deposit.
The EPF is a valuable resource for both you and your tenant. If your tenant is facing eviction, the EPF can help them stay in their home and avoid the financial and emotional stress of eviction. As a landlord, the EPF can help you avoid the costs and hassle of evicting your tenant.
To apply for the EPF, your tenant must contact the UniteCT Resource Center. The Resource Center will help them complete an application and will also provide them with information about other rental assistance programs that may be available to them.
Here are the steps on how to apply for the Eviction Prevention Fund:
- Your tenant should contact the UniteCT Resource Center at 1-844-864-8328.
- They should schedule an appointment with a Resource Center staff member.
- They should complete an application for the EPF.
- They should provide documentation to support their application, such as proof of income, proof of rent arrears, and a copy of the eviction notice.
- If their application is approved, they will receive a check from the EPF.
The Eviction Prevention Fund is a limited-resource program, so it is important to apply as soon as possible. If your tenant is facing eviction, you should encourage them to contact the UniteCT Resource Center today to see if they are eligible for assistance.
