Rent Relief Program

Published October 11, 2021
Assists Qualifying Tenants and Landlords

While California's eviction moratorium has ended, the state has provided Tenant Protection Information, including rent relief to tenants and landlords for several months for residents not protected by local ordinances banning evictions for non-payment of rent. According to Housing Is Key, the Rent Relief Program pays eligible tenants and landlords 100% of a tenant's past-due rent and utilities dating to April 1, 2020. This program also protects tenants from eviction and debt collection lawsuits, but tenants must apply to this free, limited funded program.

Currently, landlords must apply for rental assistance before trying to evict tenants through the courts for failure to pay rent. While a landlord may give a tenant a notice to "pay or quit," they cannot legally evict a tenant without first applying to the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program.Tenants served with a notice to "pay or quit," should seek legal assistance to determine their rights. If the notice to "pay or quit" includes a "Declaration of COVID-19 related financial distress"—and the pandemic has financially impacted a tenant—tenants should sign and return the declaration to their landlord within 15 business days to enhance their protections.

The Housing Is Key website stresses that it is vital that a tenant applies for rental assistance within 15 business days of receiving a "pay or quit" notice, or within 15 business days of receiving a notice from the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program that your landlord has started an application on your behalf. It is also recommended that tenants notify their landlord upon applying for rental assistance.

 Other Important Dates and Facts:

  • Beginning November 1, 2021, landlords may sue you for any unpaid rent you owe.
  • It is illegal for a landlord to give a tenant a 30- or 60-day eviction notice without a stated reason, commonly known as a "no-cause" eviction.
  • The stated reason must match one of the valid reasons allowed by the law, a "just cause" eviction.
  • Check local government eviction ordinances deadlines and expirations.

If you believe you have been unlawfully evicted or need legal advice, you should consult with an attorney or contact the Legal Resource Center to arrange a free consultation with a licensed California attorney or contact other tenant assistance programs.