If you’re a Georgia renter who has fallen behind on rent payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may qualify for assistance. The Georgia Rental Assistance Program can provide up to 12 months of rental assistance and utility assistance, paid directly to landlords and service providers on behalf of tenants.
Program Overview
The State of Georgia received $552 million from U.S. Treasury’s Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program to provide relief to individuals, families, and landlords whose finances have been negatively impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds will be used to bring pastdue rent and utility payments current. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) will administer this program which will open in March 2021. The money will be distributed directly to landlords, and eligible applicants will receive up to 12 months of payment relief. Individuals must qualify for unemployment or has experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19; demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and have household income at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI).
Tenant Requirements
Identification (State ID or passport)
Income documents for every adult (age 18 and older) in the household
Past due rent notice or utility bills, provider, and account number
Copy of lease
Attest to unemployment eligibility OR documents showing a reduction in income, significant costs, or financial hardship due directly or indirectly to COVID-19
Landlord Requirements
Identification (State ID or passport)
Proof of ownership or Authorization/Agreement to act on behalf of owner of management company
Statement of Delinquent Rent
W-9 and bank information for ACH payment