*It is possible this information is no longer relevant.*

Because of COVID-19 some people have lost income or work. That means some people haven’t been able to pay their rent. The government has implemented programs to help renters and landlords. If you are behind on rent or utilities or may get behind soon, consider these steps because help is available!

Step 1: Apply for Emergency Financial Help

• The Mountaineer Rental Assistance Program (MRAP) can help low-income renters with back rent, future rent, and utilities. Apply online and learn more at www.wvrentalassistance.com. Call 1-866-623-6284 for a paper application or with questions.
• Call 211 or go to www.wv211.org to learn about local resources that may be able to help.

Step 2: Reach Out

• Talk to your landlord. Tell your landlord why you are having problems paying. Pay what you can. Explain your plans. Landlords are more likely to cooperate with renters who are trying.
• If you need legal help, apply for services from Legal Aid of West Virginia.

Step 3: Get Informed

• Read any court notices or paperwork carefully. Make sure to respond to all deadlines and timeframes in court cases.
• Find Legal Information about the court eviction process and renter’s rights on our website.

Step 4: Claim all the help available to you

• The IRS has issued three Economic Impact Payments (stimulus payments).  Make sure you get all three: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments
• If you have children and did not automatically get the advance Child Tax Credit payments, sign up for it with the IRS: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021

You can find more information in our COVID-19 and Eviction article. Or if you need legal assistance, apply for help.