If you have questions about the program, issues with your account, the application form or another page on this portal, call our support team anytime from 9-6pm eastern Monday-Friday:

For Emergency Rental Assistance, call 855-552-1172

As a landlord, you play an essential role in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and are encouraged to actively participate to be eligible for funding. Registration is required for landlords to participate as a vendor in the program and receive funds directly on behalf of their approved tenants.

How do I register for ERAP?

Online registration is open for landlords with properties in County of Union. REGISTER

Registration allows tenants and landlords to be matched up within the system and for landlords to see the status of tenant applications. If a landlord is not registered, the landlord will receive a registration invitation when a tenant applies to the program and provides landlord information on the application.

If you experience problems when registering or have questions about the program, you may call (855) 552-1172 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est, Monday through Friday.

What information do I need to collect for tenants and what documents must I upload to register myself?

You will need all of the following when registering:

• Completed W9 form
• Main mailing address to mail payments to, if approved
• Banking account number and routing number to send payments to, if approved
• Addresses for all of your rental properties applicable to the program
• Electronically sign the program’s terms and conditions

If your tenant submits an application, you will be required to provide:

• Verification of tenant(s) residing at the property, as needed, and relationship with tenant(s)
• Completed Rental ledger form listing past-due rental payments for each tenant who applies

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are for payment towards past-due rent, up to three months of prospective rent, past-due electric bills and past-due gas bills, if applicable. Funding must be applied to the months approved by the program. If you are registered and your tenant is approved for funding, you will receive the payments directly. Payments for gas and electric bills will be handled directly through the utility companies.

If an approved tenant received previous shelter assistance from the County for a month that remains past due, the program will not be able to duplicate the eligibility payment for that month(s).

Is there a funding limit to what landlords can receive?

There is no limit to what landlords can receive as the funding will be covering households. Landlords could have multiple households approved for funding because of the number of properties they have within the County of Union.

Assistance provided can be up to 12 months of past-due rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household. It may also cover the current month and prospective month, which is considered on a case-by-case basis if applicable.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in County of Union
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• Household income must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) as reported on 2020 Federal Income Tax filing (IRS form 1040 Adjusted Gross Income), or as calculated across all W-2 and/or 1099 forms. Priority access will be given to eligible households at or below 50% AMI or with zero income the 90 days prior to the application date
• Financially impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting March 13, 2020. Examples of COVID-19 impacts include:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• Households seeking rental assistance must have active lease with past-due payment
• Households seeking electric or gas assistance must have a past-due rental payment and a past-due electric and/or gas bills

Can I apply on behalf of my tenant?

Landlords cannot apply on behalf of tenants but are encouraged to share the program details with tenants and assist tenants as they see appropriate. Registered landlords will receive notifications about tenant applications and are asked to provide rental ledgers for each tenant’s past-due rent. Prompt responses to ERAP application requests will help expedite the process and payment, if tenant application is approved.

Can a tenant in an income-restricted affordable housing complex apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance to cover their required percentage of rent. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents.

If my tenant is approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive the money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of the account online. Payments will be made via ACH or mailed directly to the mailing address you provide when you register.

Are there eviction restrictions tied to this program?

If you have been notified that your tenant has been approved for ERAP funding and payment will cover all of the tenant’s past-due rent, you must not evict that tenant for nonpayment. Additionally, participating landlords must abide by the federal eviction moratorium.

Is it mandatory for landlords to participate in this program?

It is mandatory if you wish to receive payments to cover your approved tenants’ past-due rent. If you opt out of the program or do not agree to the registration terms and conditions, payment will be provided directly to the tenant.

If funding is received, what do I need to do for record keeping?

You must keep records proving that your tenant’s account was credited (amounts, months) for a period of at least five years. This will be needed for every tenant for whom you receive funding through ERAP. Audits may be conducted by the federal awarding agency, Inspectors General, the Comptroller General of the United States, or any Union County authorized representatives. You will need to allow these entities the right to access any documents, papers, or other records pertinent to the Federal award. If the County ascertains – via audit or otherwise – that you misspent awarded funds (e.g. did not apply awarded funding to your tenants’ rental arrears) then you must promptly return those funds to the County. Failure to promptly return the funds may result in the County seeking any available legal remedy.

Is there a deadline to register?

There is not a deadline for a landlord to register, but the program only runs to September 3, 2021 or as long as funding is available.

I’m having trouble submitting my Tax ID during registration. What do I do?

When registering as a landlord, you will need to enter your Tax ID number as numbers only. It won't be accepted if there are any other characters entered in the box.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in Union County
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• Financially impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting March 13, 2020. Examples of COVID-19 impact:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• Households seeking rental assistance must have an active lease with past-due payment
• Households seeking electric or gas assistance must have a past-due rental payment and a past-due electric bill and/or a past-due gas bill
• Household income must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) as reported on 2020 Federal Income Tax filing (IRS form 1040 Adjusted Gross Income), or as calculated across all W-2 and/or 1099 forms. Priority access will be given to eligible households at or below 50% AMI or with zero income the 90 days prior to the application date

What documents do I need to apply for assistance?

You will need all of the following when applying:

• Identification for all members of the household:
• Copy of valid (not expired) New Jersey driver’s license, ID card or passport for all adult household members, including yourself
• Copy of identification for all minor household members (birth certificate, school records, or immunization records)
• Signed 2020 IRS Tax Return(s) or 2020 W-2 and/or 1099 forms
• Depending on household makeup, multiple tax returns, W-2s and/or 1099 forms may be required
• For any households exempt from tax returns, other documentation explaining income status or waiver may be acceptable upon review.
• Copy of your active lease – must include pages showing lease agreement, applicant’s name, names of any other tenants (residing in home), leased property address, landlord’s name and address, amount of monthly rent (payment obligation), frequency of payments, lease start and end dates, clause related to non-compliance with lease terms (example termination/eviction clause), to whom rent is paid (if not landlord named), how and where rent is to be paid, and signatures of landlord and adult tenant(s). Other documentation may be acceptable upon review in the absence of a formal lease agreement.
• Copy of every month past-due gas and/or electricity statements beginning on March 2020 (or earliest month if account was opened after March 2020.) A single statement that lists the past-due charges by month for each month included in the application is acceptable. If applicable, statements must have your name or the name of someone who is in your household.

These attachments may be in the following formats when uploaded: PDF, JPG, PNG, or Word document.

Note: If you do not attach all necessary files, your application will not be accepted, and you will not receive financial assistance.

How do I apply for assistance?

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program online application portal is open for eligible residents at or below 80% Area Media Income (AMI) or with zero income 90 days prior to application date. Review eligibility criteria and requirements before applying.

If you experience problems when applying or have questions about the program, you may call (855) 552-1172 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.

Important Notice: Applying for the ERAP is free and one-on-one application assistance for tenants is available in English and Spanish by contacting the ERAP Call Center at the number listed above. Tenants should be wary of anyone requesting payment to complete an ERAP application.

If I’ve received assistance from Social Services in the past, can I still apply?

If you have received assistance from County of Union Social Services, you are still eligible to apply for financial assistance, however your ERAP benefit may be reduced to reflect duplicative assistance.

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are for payment towards your past-due rent, up to three months of prospective rent, past-due electric bills and past-due gas bills, if applicable. If your landlord is registered through ERAP, your landlord will receive the payments directly. Past-due electric and gas bills will be handled directly through the utility providers.

If I pay with a housing benefit like in an income restricted affordable housing complex, can I apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents. The ERAP will only cover the tenant’s required rental contribution and not the federal portion.

If I have a roommate, can we both apply for assistance?

The program will only accept one application per household, including roommates. Roommates should submit one application together with all their supporting documents, including individual tax returns.

What is the deadline to apply?

Financial assistance is awarded on a first-come basis and while funding remains available. It is recommended you complete your application all at once to ensure your application is submitted before the funding is accounted for. The application window will be open between June 14, 2021 – August 31, 2021 (as long as funds are available).

Who in the household can apply for assistance?

Only one application per household will be accepted and must be in the name of the person affected by COVID-19.

What if I have a baby but they aren’t included on my lease agreement? Do they count towards my household size?

Eligibility and household size will be based off your lease agreement and/or supporting documents from your landlord, if needed. An eligibility specialist will be able to assist in the determination of household size.

Am I eligible if I meet some, but not all, of the eligibility requirements?

No. You must meet ALL eligibility requirements to be eligible.

How much will I get if I’m approved for assistance?

Once your application is accepted and you are determined eligible, your financial assistance amount for rental assistance will depend on a variety of different variables including your date of impact. Rental assistance payments will be provided directly to your landlord, if your landlord is registered with ERAP. Assistance provided can be up to 12 months of past-due rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household. It may also cover the current month and prospective month, which is considered on a case-by-case basis if applicable.

For past-due electric or gas assistance, payments will be provided directly to the utility provider and dependent on past-due charges that are due at the time of application review and COVID-19 impact date.

If I’m approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive my money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of your application online. Payments will made directly to your landlord if your landlord is registered through ERAP.

What happens if my landlord declines to participate in the program?

If your landlord does not register as a program vendor and/or opts out of the program, a rental ledger completed by your landlord will be required to verify your past-due rent payment(s) for eligibility consideration. If you are approved for funding and your landlord has opted out of the program, a check will be mailed to the address you provide on your application. Note that by accepting the terms and conditions for this program, you are obligated to use the funds towards your past-due rent.

If I have applied for assistance but wish to report unsafe living conditions at my residence, what should I do?

If you believe you are experiencing unsafe living conditions your landlord has not resolved - for example, your residence has exposed electrical wiring, water leaking through the ceiling or walls, broken or missing windows, or raw sewage due to broken or malfunctioning plumbing - please call the State of New Jersey Bureau of Housing Inspection at 609-633-6241 or contact your local municipal code enforcement office.

If you have any questions about this program, call the ERAP Call Center at (855) 552-1172 to speak with a representative. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.

What are examples of financial hardship experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Direct or indirect financial hardship experienced as a result of COVID-19 may include (but is not limited to):

• Reduction in household income, such as:
• Reduced wages/earnings
• Reduced hours
• Employment termination
• Furlough
• Sickness and inability to work
• Business closed
• Receiving unemployment

Do I need to have lawful immigration status to be eligible to receive rental assistance?

No. Individuals do not need to have a lawful immigration status to qualify for the program.

Are water bills or internet bills eligible as part of ERAP?

No, only gas and/or electric utility arrears may be paid for households determined eligible for rental arrears assistance under ERAP.

What happens to utility costs that are included in the rent?

If utility expenses are part of a household’s monthly rental costs and a household does not receive a separate gas or electric utility bill, the utility expenses would be included as part of the rental arrears or future rent payment.

What income is included when determining my household income for ERAP?

Income of all adults in the household 18 years of age or older is counted except earned income of full-time students who are eligible to be claimed as a dependent pursuant to IRS regulations.

Gross income is counted, rather than take-home pay. Gross income includes income before any deductions are made, including taxes.

If I don’t have any income at the time of applying for ERAP, am I eligible for the program?

Yes, you may be eligible as long as you also meet the other program eligibility requirements.

How do I document not having any income?

Self-attestation is acceptable in circumstances where no other forms of documentation are available.

Do I need to repay assistance provided through ERAP?

No, eligible households are not required to repay rental payments, rental arrears or utility arrears assistance provided through ERAP. The only instance that would require repayment would be if there is a determination that the application submitted was fraudulent and the application should not have been approved.

If I received help through the previous COVID Rent Relief Program, but still need help, am I eligible for help through ERAP?

Yes. Households that participated in the COVID Rent Relief Program including CDBG-CV funds but who still have past due rent that is unpaid may be eligible for additional help through ERAP and are encouraged to apply.

Will ERAP help me pay overdue mortgage payments?

No. ERAP is only available to pay rental arrears.

Can my landlord apply for ERAP for me?

Your landlord may start the ERAP application, but both the landlord and tenant must complete certain parts of the application. If your landlord starts the application, you will receive an email or text to complete the required tenant part.

Your landlord may help you complete the parts of the application, such as how much rent arrears you owe.

Tenants must provide certain tenant-specific information, such as income information, and must sign the application indicating agreement with certain information included in the application.

If I do not have a lease, but I am a month-to-month tenant, am I still eligible to receive ERAP assistance?

Households that do not have a lease will be required to provide other proof of a rental obligation, such as a landlord statement, canceled check or proof of electronic payment. Landlords will also be asked to provide the most recent lease and provide other proof that the individual is a tenant.

Once I have applied for a full 12 months of rental arrears payments plus an additional 3 months of future rental assistance, will I be eligible to apply again?

No. Assistance is limited to a maximum of 15 months – 12 months of arrears and 3 months of future rent.

Do tenants and landlords submit one application or separate applications?

Tenants and landlords will submit one application; however, there are separate sections for the tenant and the landlord to complete.

Will rental or utility assistance received through ERAP count as income for taxation purposes for tenants?

No. Assistance provided to tenants under ERAP will not be considered taxable income.

What if I move from my apartment after I apply for ERAP assistance?

Once you move from the apartment listed on your application, you cannot transfer the ERAP rental assistance to pay your new landlord.

You can only receive assistance for the address where you are currently living.

How will the tenant know what will be paid on their behalf?

An award letter will be provided to both the tenant and landlord detailing the amounts paid.

What if a tenant and/or landlord does not have internet access?

Union County will make every effort to mitigate internet access barriers, either directly or through partnerships with community-based non-profit organizations. In addition, the ERAP call center will be available to assist applicants over the phone.

What if there is a dispute between the tenant and landlord over the amount of rental arrears owed?

During the review process, applications and eligible payment amounts will be determined by the accompanying documentation

If you have questions about the program, issues with your account, the application form or another page on this portal, call our support team anytime from 9-6pm eastern Monday-Friday:

For Emergency Rental Assistance, call 855-203-6952

As a landlord, you play an essential role in the ERAP and are encouraged to actively participate to be eligible for funding. Registration is required for landlords to participate as a vendor in the program and receive funds directly on behalf of their approved tenants.

How do I register for ERAP?

Online registration is open for landlords within Bergen County. REGISTER

Registration allows tenants and landlords to be matched up within the system and for landlords to see the status of tenant applications. If a landlord is not registered, the landlord will receive a registration invitation when a tenant applies to the program and provides landlord information on the application.

If you experience problems when registering or have questions about the program, you may call (855) 203-6952 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est, Monday through Friday.

What information do I need to collect for tenants and what documents must I upload to register myself?

You will need all of the following when registering:

• Completed W9 form
• Main mailing address to mail payments to, if approved
• Addresses for all of your rental properties applicable to the program
• Acceptance of the program’s terms and conditions

If your tenant submits an application, you will be required to provide:

• Verification of tenant(s) residing at the property, as needed, and relationship with tenant(s)
• Complete and electronically sign the Rental ledger form listing past-due rental payments for each tenant who applies

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are for payment towards past-due rent, past-due electric bills and past-due gas bills, if applicable. Funding must be applied to the months approved by the program. If you are registered and your tenant is approved for funding, you will receive the payments directly. Payments for electric bills will be handled directly through the utility companies.

If an approved tenant received previous shelter assistance from the County for a month that remains past due, the program will not be able to duplicate the eligibility payment for that month(s).

Is there a funding limit to what landlords can receive?

There is no limit to what landlords can receive as the funding will be covering households. Landlords could have multiple households approved for funding because of the number of properties they have within Bergen County.

Assistance provided can be up to 12 months of past-due rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household. It may also cover the current month and prospective month, which is considered on a case-by-case basis if applicable.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in Bergen County
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• Household income must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) as reported on 2020 Federal Income Tax filing (IRS form 1040 Adjusted Gross Income), or as calculated across all W-2 and/or 1099 forms. Priority access will be given to eligible households at or below 50% AMI or with zero income the 90 days prior to the application date
• Financially impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting March 13, 2020. Examples of COVID-19 impacts include:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• Households seeking rental assistance must have active lease with past-due payment
• Households seeking electric or gas assistance must have a past-due rental payment and a past-due electric and/or gas bills

Can I apply on behalf of my tenant?

Landlords cannot apply on behalf of tenants but are encouraged to share the program details with tenants and assist tenants as they see appropriate. Registered landlords will receive notifications about tenant applications and are asked to provide rental ledgers for each tenant’s past-due rent. Prompt responses to ERAP application requests will help expedite the process and payment, if tenant application is approved.

Can a tenant in an income-restricted affordable housing complex apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance to cover their required percentage of rent. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents.

If my tenant is approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive the money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of the account online. Payments will be mailed directly to the mailing address you provide when you register.

Are there eviction restrictions tied to this program?

If you have been notified that your tenant has been approved for ERAP funding and payment will cover all of the tenant’s past-due rent, you must not evict that tenant for nonpayment. Additionally, participating landlords must abide by the federal eviction moratorium.

Is it mandatory for landlords to participate in this program?

It is mandatory if you wish to receive payments to cover your approved tenants’ past-due rent. If you opt out of the program or do not agree to the registration terms and conditions, payment will be provided directly to the tenant.

If funding is received, what do I need to do for record keeping?

You must keep records proving that your tenant’s account was credited (amounts, months) for a period of at least five years. This will be needed for every tenant for whom you receive funding through ERAP. Audits may be conducted by the federal awarding agency, Inspectors General, the Comptroller General of the United States, the Bergen County Clerk, or any of their authorized representatives. You will need to allow these entities the right to access any documents, papers, or other records pertinent to the Federal award. If the County ascertains – via audit or otherwise – that you misspent awarded funds (e.g. did not apply awarded funding to your tenants’ rental arrears) then you must promptly return those funds to the County. Failure to promptly return the funds may result in the County seeking any available legal remedy.

Is there a deadline to register?

There is not a deadline for a landlord to register, but the program only runs to August 31, 2021 or as long as funding is available.

I’m having trouble submitting my Tax ID during registration. What do I do?

When registering as a landlord, you will need to enter your Tax ID number as numbers only. It won't be accepted if there are any other characters entered in the box.

If I applied for Small Business program, can I use the same log in information?

Yes, you may use the same account information but you will need to update your information to be able to proceed as a landlord in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in Bergen County
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• Financially impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic starting March 13, 2020. Examples of COVID-19 impact:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• Households seeking rental assistance must have an active lease with past-due payment
• Households seeking electric or gas assistance must have a past-due rental payment and a past-due electric bill and/or a past-due gas bill
• Household income must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) as reported on 2020 Federal Income Tax filing (IRS form 1040 Adjusted Gross Income), or as calculated across all W-2 and/or 1099 forms. Priority access will be given to eligible households at or below 50% AMI or with zero income the 90 days prior to the application date

What documents do I need to apply for assistance?

You will need all of the following when applying:

• Identification for all members of the household:
• Copy of valid (not expired) New Jersey driver’s license, ID card or passport for all adult household members, including yourself
• Copy of identification for all minor household members (birth certificate, school records, or immunization records)
• Signed 2020 IRS Tax Return(s) or 2020 W-2 and/or 1099 forms
• Depending on household makeup, multiple tax returns, W-2s and/or 1099 forms may be required
• Need to file your taxes? Check out the Bergen County Free Tax Preparation Program
• For any households exempt from tax returns, other documentation explaining income status or waiver will be acceptable upon review.
• Copy of your active lease – must include pages showing lease agreement, applicant’s name, names of any other tenants (residing in home), leased property address, landlord’s name and address, amount of monthly rent (payment obligation), frequency of payments, lease start and end dates, clause related to non-compliance with lease terms (example termination/eviction clause), to whom rent is paid (if not landlord named), how and where rent is to be paid, and signatures of landlord and adult tenant(s). Other documentation may be acceptable upon review in the absence of a formal lease agreement.
• Copy of your latest past-due gas and/or electricity statement, if applicable (must have your name or the name of someone who is in your household)

These attachments may be in the following formats when uploaded: PDF, JPG, PNG, or Word document.

Note: If you do not attach all necessary files, your application will not be accepted, and you will not receive financial assistance.

How do I apply for assistance?

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program online application portal is open for eligible residents at or below 80% Area Media Income (AMI) or with zero income 90 days prior to application date. Review eligibility criteria and requirements before applying.

If you experience problems when applying or have questions about the program, you may call (855) 203-6952 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.

Important Notice: Applying for the ERAP is free and one-on-one application assistance for tenants is available in English and Spanish by contacting the ERAP Call Center at the number listed above. Tenants should be wary of anyone requesting payment to complete an ERAP application.

If I’ve received assistance from Social Services in the past, can I still apply?

If you have received assistance from Bergen County Social Services, you are still eligible to apply for financial assistance, however your ERAP benefit may be reduced to reflect duplicative assistance.

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are for payment towards your past-due rent, past-due electric bills and past-due utility bills, if applicable. If your landlord is registered through ERAP, your landlord will receive the payments directly. Past-due electric and gas bills will be handled directly through the utility providers.

If I pay with a housing benefit like in an income restricted affordable housing complex, can I apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents. The ERAP will only cover the tenant’s required rental contribution and not the federal portion.

If I have a roommate, can we both apply for assistance?

The program will only accept one application per household, including roommates. Roommates should submit one application together with all their supporting documents, including individual tax returns.

What is the deadline to apply?

Financial assistance is awarded on a first-come basis and while funding remains available. It is recommended you complete your application all at once to ensure your application is submitted before the funding is accounted for. The application window will be open between June 14, 2021 – June 23, 2021 (as long as funds are available).

Who in the household can apply for assistance?

Only one application per household will be accepted and must be in the name of the person affected by COVID-19.

What if I have a baby but they aren’t included on my lease agreement? Do they count towards my household size?

Eligibility and household size will be based off your lease agreement and/or supporting documents from your landlord, if needed. An eligibility specialist will be able to assist in the determination of household size.

Am I eligible if I meet some, but not all, of the eligibility requirements?

No. You must meet ALL eligibility requirements to be eligible.

How much will I get if I’m approved for assistance?

Once your application is accepted and you are determined eligible, your financial assistance amount for rental assistance will depend on the number of persons in your household and when your loss of wages began. Rental assistance payments will be provided directly to your landlord, if your landlord is registered with ERAP. Assistance provided can be up to 12 months of past-due rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household. It may also cover the current month and prospective month, which is considered on a case-by-case basis if applicable.

For past-due electric or gas assistance, payments will be provided directly to the utility provider and dependent on past-due charges that are due at the time of application review and COVID-19 impact date.

If I’m approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive my money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of your application online. Payments will made directly to your landlord if your landlord is registered through ERAP.

What happens if my landlord declines to participate in the program?

If your landlord does not register as a program vendor and/or opts out of the program, a rental ledger completed by your landlord will be required to verify your past-due rent payment(s) for eligibility consideration. If you are approved for funding and your landlord has opted out of the program, a check will be mailed to the address you provide on your application. Note that by accepting the terms and conditions for this program, you are obligated to use the funds towards your past-due rent.

If I have applied for assistance but wish to report unsafe living conditions at my residence, what should I do?

If you believe you are experiencing unsafe living conditions your landlord has not resolved - for example, your residence has exposed electrical wiring, water leaking through the ceiling or walls, broken or missing windows, or raw sewage due to broken or malfunctioning plumbing - please call the following numbers (855) 203-6952.

If you have any questions about this program, call the ERAP Call Center at (855) 203-6952 to speak with a representative. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.

If you have questions about the program, issues with your account, the application form or another page on this portal, call our support team anytime from 9-6pm eastern Monday-Friday:

For Emergency Rental Assistance, call 866-484-9033

As a landlord, you play an essential role in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and are encouraged to actively participate to be eligible for funding. Registration is required for landlords to participate as a vendor in the program and receive funds directly on behalf of their approved tenants.

How do I register for ERAP?

Online registration is open for landlords within the City of Newark. REGISTER

Registration allows tenants and landlords to be matched up within the system and for landlords to see the status of tenant applications. If a landlord is not registered, the landlord will receive a registration invitation when a tenant applies to the program and provides landlord information on the application.

If you experience problems when registering or have questions about the program, you may call 866-484-9033 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est, Monday through Friday.

If you experience problems when registering or have questions about the program, you may call 866-484-9033 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est, Monday through Friday.

What information do I need to collect for tenants and what documents must I upload to register myself?

You will need all of the following when registering:

• Completed W9 form
• Payment details, if approved, including the bank account information and mailing address for all of your rental properties applicable to the program
• Electronic signature acceptance of the program’s terms and conditions

If your tenant submits an application, you will be required to provide:

• Verification of tenant(s) residing at the property, as needed, and relationship with tenant(s)
• Complete and electronically sign the Rental ledger form listing past-due rental payments for each tenant who applies

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are currently allocated for payment towards past-due rent. Funding must be applied to the months approved by the program. If you are registered and your tenant is approved for funding, you will receive the payments directly. At this time, payments for utilities will not be covered, but may be considered at a future date.

If an approved tenant received previous shelter assistance from the County for a month that remains past due, the program will not be able to duplicate the eligibility payment for that month(s).

Is there a funding limit to what landlords can receive?

There is no limit to what landlords can receive as the funding will be covering households. Landlords could have multiple households approved for funding because of the number of properties they have within the City of Newark.

Assistance provided can be up to 18 months of past-due and prospective rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household. Within the 18 months, only 3 total months of prospective rent can be provided.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in City of Newark
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• The household is a low-income family (as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)));
• Experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic;
• Examples of reduction of household income or financial hardship include:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
• Households seeking rental assistance must have active lease with past-due payment

Can I apply on behalf of my tenant?

Landlords cannot apply on behalf of tenants but are encouraged to share the program details with tenants and assist tenants as they see appropriate. Registered landlords will receive notifications about tenant applications and are asked to provide rental ledgers for each tenant’s past-due rent. Prompt responses to ERAP application requests will help expedite the process and payment, if tenant application is approved.

Can a tenant in an income-restricted affordable housing complex apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance to cover their required percentage of rent. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents.

If my tenant is approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive the money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of the account online. Payments will be made via ACH or mailed directly to the mailing address you provide when you register.

Are there eviction restrictions tied to this program?

If you have been notified that your tenant has been approved for ERAP funding and payment will cover all of the tenant’s past-due rent, you must not evict that tenant for nonpayment. Additionally, participating landlords must abide by the federal and/or state eviction moratorium.

Is it mandatory for landlords to participate in this program?

It is mandatory if you wish to receive payments to cover your approved tenants’ past-due rent. If you opt out of the program or do not agree to the registration terms and conditions, payment will be provided directly to the tenant.

If funding is received, what do I need to do for record keeping?

You must keep records proving that your tenant’s account was credited (amounts, months) for a period of at least five years. This will be needed for every tenant for whom you receive funding through ERAP. Audits may be conducted by the federal awarding agency, Inspectors General, the Comptroller General of the United States, the City of Newark County Clerk, or any of their authorized representatives. You will need to allow these entities the right to access any documents, papers, or other records pertinent to the Federal award. If the County ascertains – via audit or otherwise – that you misspent awarded funds (e.g. did not apply awarded funding to your tenants’ rental arrears) then you must promptly return those funds to the County. Failure to promptly return the funds may result in the City seeking any available legal remedy.

Is there a deadline to register?

There is not a deadline for a landlord to register, but the program portal will close January 7, 2022 or earlier if funding is exhausted.

I’m having trouble submitting my Tax ID during registration. What do I do?

When registering as a landlord, you will need to enter your Tax ID number as numbers only. It won't be accepted if there are any other characters entered in the box.

Who is eligible for ERAP?

Residents who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• Rent in City of Newark
• Cannot be renting a homesteaded property
• Cannot be related to their landlord
• Cannot be relocating to new location
• Houshold income must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) as reported on 2020 Federal Income Tax filing (IRS form 1040 Adjusted Gross Income), or as calculated across all W-2 and/or 1099 forms;
• Priority access will be given to eligible households at or below 50% AMI or with zero income the 90 days prior to the application date
• Experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic;
• Examples of reduction in household income or financial hardship include:
• Qualified for unemployment compensation benefits
• Experienced a reduction in income
• Incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship, due directly or indirectly to COVID-19, that threaten the household’s ability to pay the costs of the rental property
• One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
• Households seeking rental assistance must have active lease with past-due payment.

What documents do I need to apply for assistance?

You will need all of the following when applying:

• Identification for all members of the household:
• Copy of valid (not expired) New Jersey driver’s license, ID card or passport for all adult household members, including yourself
• Copy of identification for all minor household members (birth certificate, school records, or immunization records)
• Signed 2020 IRS Tax Return(s) or 2020 W-2 and/or 1099 forms
• Depending on household makeup, multiple tax returns, W-2s and/or 1099 forms may be required
• Need to file your taxes? Check out the Free Tax Preparation Program at Newark Asset Building Coalition www.nabcnj.org/newark-free-tax-prep/
• For any households exempt from tax returns, other documentation explaining income status or waiver will be acceptable upon review.
• Copy of your active lease – must include pages showing lease agreement, applicant’s name, names of any other tenants (residing in home), leased property address, landlord’s name and address, amount of monthly rent (payment obligation), frequency of payments, lease start and end dates, clause related to non-compliance with lease terms (example termination/eviction clause), to whom rent is paid (if not landlord named), how and where rent is to be paid, and signatures of landlord and adult tenant(s). Other documentation may be acceptable upon review in the absence of a formal lease agreement.

These attachments may be in the following formats when uploaded: PDF, JPG, PNG, or Word document.

Note: If you do not attach all necessary files, your application will not be accepted, and you will not receive financial assistance.

How do I apply for assistance?

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program online application portal is open for eligible residents at or below 80% Area Media Income (AMI) or with zero income 90 days prior to application date. Review eligibility criteria and requirements before applying.

If you experience problems when applying or have questions about the program, you may call 866-484-9033 to speak with a Customer Call Center Representative who will provide support and guidance. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.

Important Notice: Applying for the ERAP is free and one-on-one application assistance for tenants is available in English and Spanish by contacting the ERAP Call Center at the number listed above. Tenants should be wary of anyone requesting payment to complete an ERAP application.

If I’ve received assistance from Social Services in the past, can I still apply?

If you have received assistance from the City's Social Services, you are still eligible to apply for financial assistance, however your ERAP benefit may be reduced to reflect duplicative assistance.

Applicants cannot receive funds from the City’s ERAP for periods that have already been covered by state and county ERAP.

What does the assistance pay for?

The funds are for payment towards past-due rent up to 18 (18) months, up to three (3) months of prospective rent can be provided. Funding must be applied to the months approved by the program. If your landlord is registered through ERAP, your landlord will receive the payments directly.

If I pay with a housing benefit like in an income restricted affordable housing complex, can I apply for assistance?

Tenants who receive other housing benefits, like Section 8 or other housing vouchers, are eligible for assistance. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program cannot duplicate housing benefits already being provided to residents. The ERAP will only cover the tenant’s required rental contribution and not the federal portion.

If I have a roommate, can we both apply for assistance?

The program will only accept one application per household, including roommates. Roommates should submit one application together with all their supporting documents, including individual tax returns.

What is the deadline to apply?

Financial assistance is awarded on a first-come basis and while funding remains available. It is recommended you complete your application all at once to ensure your application is submitted before the funding is accounted for. The application portal will close when funding is exhausted or January 7, 2022.

Who in the household can apply for assistance?

Only one application per household will be accepted and must be in the name of the person who has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic.

What if I have a baby but they aren’t included on my lease agreement? Do they count towards my household size?

Eligibility and household size will be based off your lease agreement and/or supporting documents from your landlord, if needed. An eligibility specialist will be able to assist in the determination of household size.

Am I eligible if I meet some, but not all, of the eligibility requirements?

No. You must meet ALL eligibility requirements to be eligible.

How much will I get if I’m approved for assistance?

Once your application is accepted and you are determined eligible, your financial assistance amount for rental assistance will depend on the number of persons in your household and when your loss of wages began. Rental assistance payments will be provided directly to your landlord, if your landlord is registered with ERAP. Assistance provided can be up to 18 months of past-due or prospective rent from March 13, 2020 or later, per household with up to three (3) months of prospective rent. It may also cover the current month and prospective month, which is considered on a case-by-case basis if applicable.

Although awards are for rent only, past-due electric or gas assistance may be a possibilityn the future. There are questions on the application simply to help us determine the need for such assistance in the future, should additional funds be made available to the City.

For past-due electric or gas assistance, payments will be provided directly to the utility provider and dependent on past-due charges that are due at the time of application review and COVID-19 impact date.

If I’m approved for assistance, how long will it take to receive my money?

Every request is unique and processing eligibility and payment time will vary. Your payment could take several weeks to arrive, but you will be able to track the status of your application online. Payments will made directly to your landlord if your landlord is registered through ERAP.

What happens if my landlord declines to participate in the program?

If your landlord does not register as a program vendor and/or opts out of the program, a rental ledger completed by your landlord will be required to verify your past-due rent payment(s) for eligibility consideration. If you are approved for funding and your landlord has opted out of the program, a check will be mailed to the address you provide on your application. Note that by accepting the terms and conditions for this program, you are obligated to use the funds towards your past-due rent.

If I have been experiencing illegal eviction activity at my residence, what should I do?

The Governor has extended the eviction moratorium in New Jersey to December 31, 2021. If you are under the threat of illegal eviction activity you ​should call the Newark police at 973-733-6000. Newark tenants facing the threat of eviction may also visit  https://www.newarknj.gov/departments/office-of-tenant-legal-services or call 973-877-9424 to see if they are eligible for free legal assistance from the Office of Tenant Legal Services.

If you have any questions about this program, call the ERAP Call Center at (866) 484-9033 to speak with a representative. The call center is open from 9 AM until 6 PM est Monday through Friday.