Will the ERA Program be restarted?
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program will not reopen for new application submissions.
Why is ERA ending?
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program was funded under two separate federal coronavirus relief bills passed into law by Congress in 2020 and 2021. The funding for this program was limited in scope without a continuing funding source.
What happens if my application was in before the Sept. 29 deadline?
If funds are available applications received before this date will be processed until funds have been exhausted. An email notification is sent approving or denying the application.
What happens now that ERA has ended?
Those needing help covering the cost of their housing should consider the range of MaineHousing programs aimed at increasing housing stability and affordability.
- A full listing of rental assistance programs is available here: Rental Assistance (mainehousing.org)
- Programs that are aimed at increasing energy efficiency, affordability, and home safety for those who own their homes can be found here: Home Improvement Programs (mainehousing.org)
- Those looking to purchase a first home may be eligible for education and down payment and closing costs assistance through MaineHousing First Home programs. You can learn more about those programs here: First Home Loan (mainehousing.org)
What if I am facing eviction?
If you are facing an eviction notice contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance. You can find a directory for their local offices at www.ptla.org. For tenants over the age of 60 contact Legal Services for the Elderly at 1-800-750-5353.
If you are worried that someone you know has applied for this program and doesn’t really need help, you can contact the Maine State Auditor’s Fraud Hotline to make a report. MaineHousing also reserves the right to randomly select applications and request supporting documentation to check for program eligibility.
MaineHousing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, marital status or receipt of public assistance in the admission or access to or treatment in its programs and activities. In employment, MaineHousing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability or genetic information. MaineHousing will provide appropriate communication auxiliary aids and services upon sufficient notice. MaineHousing will also provide this document in alternative formats upon sufficient notice. MaineHousing has designated the following person responsible for coordinating compliance with applicable federal and state nondiscrimination requirements and addressing grievances: Lauren Bustard, Maine State Housing Authority, 26 Edison Drive, Augusta, Maine 04330, Telephone Number 1-800-452-4668 (voice in state only), (207) 626-4600 (voice) or Maine Relay 711.
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