The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) began accepting applications for the Los Angeles County Rent Relief Program earlier this morning and will continue accepting them through January 12 at 11:59 p.m.. The program will now distribute over $68 million in financial support to qualified landlords adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Those interested in applying for the LA County Rent Relief Program can access the application directly at lacountyrentrelief.com.
While the program aims to help landlords, the main goal is to curb tenant evictions to reduce the number of currently housed renters from falling into homelessness.
As such, renters themselves can start an application on behalf of their landlord. A press statement from the City of Santa Monica explains:
“This program is open to landlords but if a tenant wants to take the initiative, they can open an application and will be provided a link to input their landlord’s information. From there, the rent relief providers can reach out and encourage the landlord to apply.”
The Rent Relief Program will provide up to $30,000 per rental unit to landlords for past due rent and eligible expenses dating from April 1, 2022, to the present.
DCBA has implemented a prioritized review process for the upcoming LA County Rent Relief Program applications. Applications submitted will be systematically evaluated, with priority given to those demonstrating the most substantial financial distress, those catering to the most vulnerable tenants, and properties located in areas of highest need, as identified by the LA County Equity Explorer Tool.
“Landlords provide many of the County’s housing options, but the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have left plenty in a precarious financial position,” said DCBA Director Rafael Carbajal. “Through the LA County Rent Relief program, DCBA seeks to further invigorate recovery efforts, alleviate economic hardships faced by landlords, and maintain the availability of safe, affordable places to live in Los Angeles County.”
“This Program is arriving at a critical time, underscoring the County’s commitment to property owners and tenants during this period of economic recovery. Our collaboration with the County reflects our dedication to supporting the unsung heroes of our housing market—small, local landlords,” said Tunua Thrash-Ntuk, President & CEO of The Center by Lendistry.
