Eviction and homelessness prevention
Federal funding for eviction and homelessness prevention
Eviction and homelessness prevention programs can help renters facing a temporary financial emergency stay in their homes or move to another suitable home. Unlike tenant-based rental assistance programs like the Housing Choice Voucher program, eviction and homelessness prevention programs are short-term. Funds can help pay off the household’s rental debt, cover their rent temporarily (often for just a few months), and offset other costs such as eviction court fees or moving expenses.
Prioritizing the use of Emergency Rental Assistance funds. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program, launched in response to COVID-19, is one of the most flexible programs to assist renters at risk of eviction. Funds may provide up to 12 months of rental assistance, pay off rental or utility debt, and assist with other housing-related expenses. However, the program is time-limited; jurisdictions must expend all funds by September 30, 2025. Localities should consider prioritizing the use of this temporary resource.
Linking eviction and homelessness prevention programs to long-term rental subsidies. While short-term assistance will be sufficient for some households to regain housing stability, others must transition to a longer-term subsidy. In these circumstances, the temporary relief provided by an eviction prevention program can buy time for the family to qualify for and receive a long-term subsidy. Localities (or the local organizations administering homelessness or eviction programs) can help facilitate these referrals by partnering with their local Public Housing Agency, which administers housing choice vouchers and other project-based rental assistance. In addition, many private owners have properties with project-based rental assistance.
For more information, see this brief on Eviction Prevention Programs.