Harford County Rolls Out Rental Assistance Program

BEL AIR, MD — For those who have lost their jobs due to the new coronavirus, the stress of paying rent could be eased thanks to a new program announced Friday by Harford County Executive Barry Glassman.

The Help for Workers program is, in short, a temporary, an emergency program designed to help renters pay their rent for up to three months. The program is funded by federal dollars and available to tenants whose unemployment falls below 80 percent of the area's median income.

Here's what 80 percent of the area's medium income looks like by size of family:

In the release, Glassman said the program helps renters avoid late fees and evictions after Maryland's eviction ban is lifted. It should also help landlords stay current on their mortgages and other expenses.

To qualify, tenants must present a form of photo identification for every adult in the home, a complete lease agreement with addenda, a notice of eviction or other notice from a landlord showing an overdue amount, and verification of income.

Examples of income verification documents include:

• Proof of job loss
• Last three pay leading up to loss of, or decrease in, employment
• A most recent bank statement
• Some verification of benefits received in the last 30 days (unemployment, food stamps, et cetera)
• W-2 or 1099 tax forms for 2019 and/or self-certification
• The most recent utility bill

The release states households that have experienced a sudden loss of income because of the COVID-19 pandemic can qualify for the assistance, but funds will be disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis until they are exhausted.

To apply, Harford County residents must first complete an application and send it by mail to the Harford County Office of Community & Economic Development at 15 South Main Street, Bel Air, MD 21014 or by email at commdev@harfordcountymd.gov.

Those determined to be eligible for the relief funding will be contacted by a housing counselor.