With restrictions being lifted and masks no longer being mandated, many are hopeful in looking towards the future. While there is hope in the air, many Minnesotans are still experiencing problems paying for their rent or fear that they soon may be struggling as well. Minnesota’s renters looking for help paying rent can now apply for up to 15 months of financial relief at RentHelpMN.org to pay back past-due rent. Households who experienced hardships in relation to COVID, who have rent due from March 13th, 2020 or after, and are below 80% of the area median income ($48,850 for a household of 2 or $61,050 for a household of 4 in St Louis County) may be eligible.
Applying can be completed easily online using a Google Chrome browser:
Step 1: Look at eligibility requirements and gather documents. View the renter’s checklist here.
Step 2: Complete prescreening questions at RentHelpMN.org
Step 3: If prescreening says that you may be eligible, complete the application for assistance and submit online (a paper application is also available). Make sure to keep your username and password to access your account in the future.
Step 4: After the application is submitted, you can check its status by logging into your account at RentHelpMN.org.
Step 5: Your application will be reviewed once everything is submitted and landlords/utility services will be contacted. Applicants will be notified if any additional information is required.
Applicants can be approved for rental assistance for up to 12 months of past-due rent (with a possible three-month extension) and can also cover utility bills such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash removal and home energy services. This does not include internet and phone expenses. This assistance provided will not affect a household’s eligibility for WIC, Medicaid, Medicare, social security, or public housing and does not have to be paid back. The amount each household will receive will vary as each household’s situation is different.
What should you do if you do not owe back rent but would like to apply? After phase one is complete, people who do not have past-due rent but are currently struggling to pay their rent can submit an application during phase two. Questions regarding eligibility and completing the application can be answered by calling 2-1-1 or by contacting someone at one of these trusted organizations within your community:
· AICHO: (218) 722-7225
· One Roof: (218) 206-9298
· Salvation Army: (218) 722-7934
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