An eviction diversion program runs for two more weeks in Texas, but state and local leaders say other programs will still be available.
The Texas Eviction Diversion Program was originally scheduled to expire July 27. The Texas Supreme Court issued an emergency order extending the program to October 1st.
The program created an alternative to evictions when both the tenant and landlord agreed to participate. When they both agreed, up to 15 months and utility assistance would be available to pay back rent, and eviction proceedings would be delayed up to 60 days.
The Texas Rent Relief Program is also available for landlords or tenants who can apply for assistance with unpaid rent or future rental costs or utilities. Through Wednesday, the program had paid out $765,398,480 to 127,901 households.
"We can pay for assistance back to March of last year, and applicants can request the current month and two future months if that will help them stay in their home," says Monica McCarthy, senior manager of the Texas Rent Relief program.
State Senator Royce West (D-Dallas) says, across the country, 8% of renters are now behind and 6% of renters are "likely" or "very likely" to face an eviction. He says, in addition to the election diversion and rent relief programs, cities and counties are likely to have their own programs funded through the CARES Act.
"These funds are different from what's available at the state level, so the money is there," he says. "The question is whether or not participants will participate."
KaTina Whitfield, a justice of the peace in Dallas County, says eviction cases often end up in her courtroom, and many judges keep a list of options for tenants.
"A lot of us have a list of resources, not just rental assistance," she says. "We have utilities, food, anything you're taking out of your rent money to pay, we have a resource that can provide that instead."
Applications for rent relief and more information are available at texasrentrelief.com .
The state program is scheduled to expire October 1, but many cities and counties still have funding for local programs through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and CARES Act.
"If you're renting a home and can make rent every month, but you're really struggling or always a few days late or you pay right as you get your paycheck, that is a risk of housing instability," says Sarah Evans, who oversees policy and grant compliance for the City of Dallas. "You are struggling to make ends meet. You would qualify for rental assistance. I want to be clear that you don't need an eviction notice, and you don't have to be late on your rent, necessarily, to qualify for this. We are really trying to ensure sure people can stay in their homes."
The program in the City of Dallas can pay rent that is already owed and can provide an additional three months.
"If you are struggling just a little bit to make ends meet, that three months of having your rent paid can give you an opportunity to save a little bit, pay off that medical bill or whatever other issue you have in your life, it gives you a cushion," Evans says.
More information and eligibility requirements are available from the City of Dallas.
Information on the program in the rest of Dallas County is available here. Get details on the program in Tarrant County, and for Denton County, and Collin County.
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