While OurFlorida.com is the state’s go-to website for past-due rental assistance, some local programs also offer help, and CFPB compiled that info on a single webpage.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released an online tool to help renters and landlords impacted by the pandemic easily find and apply for payment assistance for rent, utilities and other expenses.
In Florida, OurFlorida.com is the primary go-to website for aid, but CFPB’s Rental Assistance Finder, available at www.consumerfinance.gov/renthelp, connects renters and landlords with other state and local programs distributing federal assistance to help renters stay housed during the pandemic. (Choose “Florida” from the website’s dropdown box.)
“Millions of people are behind on their rent and at risk of eviction as a result of the pandemic,” says CFPB Acting Director Dave Uejio. “The Rental Assistance Finder will make it easier for renters and landlords to locate the financial assistance available in their area. People across the country are already receiving billions of dollars in assistance, and with this new tool we hope even more renters and landlords will take advantage of this emergency relief.”
According to a CFPB analysis of Census Household Pulse Survey data from June 23-July 5, 16% of adults living in rental households said they are currently behind on their payments. Of adults living in households behind on rent, 49% (approximately 3.6 million) say that eviction in the next two months is somewhat or very likely.
The federal government allocated more than $46 billion to help households unable to pay rent, utilities and other housing costs, and all 50 states – and hundreds of local, tribal and other programs – are distributing funds. CFPB says its Rental Assistance Finder tool will make it easier for renters and landlords to connect with assistance programs in their area.
Earlier, CFPB created a one-stop resource for up-to-date information on housing relief options, protections, and key deadlines at consumerfinance.gov/housing.
In addition to rental aid, CFPB says it’s taken other actions to support renters during the pandemic, including a joint statement with then-FTC Acting Chair Rebecca Kelly Slaughter promising to monitor illegal eviction activity, an interim final rule detailing illegal debt collection practices in connection with evictions during the pandemic, and a bulletin explaining Fair Credit Reporting Act obligations related to the reporting of rental and eviction information.
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Author: kerrys