The State of North Carolina Launches New Rental and Utility Assistance Program for Renters

On last Thursday, Gov. Roy Cooper announced that the N.C. Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) Program is providing $117 million to help North Carolinians pay their rent and utilities. The application is now open for renters facing financial hardship due to COVID-19.

• The assistance is for those who have a current household income that is 80% of the area median income or lower and are behind on their rent or utilities when they apply.
• Rent assistance is paid to the landlord on behalf of the applicant. This includes overdue and future rent payments, for up to six months. At least one month’s rent must be overdue at the time of application.
• Utility payments will be made directly to the utility provider for up to six months of past due essential utilities, such as electricity, water, sewer/wastewater, natural gas, and propane.

The housing provider will be required to sign a “Landlord Tenant Agreement”.  Click here for more information or to access the application.