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COVID-19 Rent Relief Program Reopens

Montgomery County’s COVID-19 rent relief program has reopened applications.

The fourth phase of the program reopened on Wednesday. It is available to renters who did not fully complete a previously-sent application or who will submit a new application, per a county release. Eligible residents should apply online at www.mc311.com/rentrelief.

The program provides rental assistance to tenants who experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19 and are behind on rent payments, with income restrictions. Eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • Experienced COVID-19-related financial hardship
  • Have a household gross income from 2020 or 2021 tax return, or from the previous 30 days, that is at or below 50% area median income (AMI)
  • Lived in Montgomery County since August 2021 or earlier
  • Have a formal or informal obligation to pay rent
  • Are behind on rent payment by at least two months as of June 30

Applicants will need an email address. Those who do not have one are encouraged to create one or connect with their property manager or landlord who can apply for them. Residents who need help can call 311 for assistance.

The county tells residents who have already applied to not apply again. Applicants can check their status through the online portal.

Applications are processed based on priority factors like income, eviction risk and location. Applicants will hear from a case worker once a case is assigned.

The previous round of applications closed June 30. According to the county, $79.1 million in financial assistance was distributed between May 2020 to July 24 of this year.  

Renters facing immediate housing loss should call 311 (Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.) to reach Housing Stabilization Services.

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