New York State will distribute up to $2.7 billion to households that were financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through its Emergency Rental Assistance Program, Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. of Sag Harbor announced this week.
Qualifying households may apply for financial assistance for 12 months of past-due rent and three months of future rent, plus 12 months of outstanding utility payments. The rental assistance program will begin accepting applications June 1 and is available to New Yorkers who are behind on their rent, have endured financial burdens related to the pandemic, are threatened by homelessness or housing instability, and whose income is at or below 80 percent of the area median income.
During the first 30 days, the program will prioritize the unemployed, those with income at or below 50 percent of area median income and other vulnerable populations. After the first 30 days, applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, as long as funds remain available. For more information, applicants and landlords should visit otda.ny.gov/erap.
An additional $800 million is available to pandemic-impacted small businesses.
“Here on the East End and across New York State, people and businesses are still reeling from the financial devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr. Thiele said. “We must do everything in our power to support our fellow community members and to help small businesses remain viable and essential components of our economy.”
Staff Writer on May 31, 2021