With the nationwide eviction moratorium set to expire on July 31, 2021, we wanted to share some resources with members to help their clients with rental assistance. Currently, the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and the Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority are taking online applications and administering COVID-19 rental assistance funds. Here is some information about both programs and how to apply.
Idaho Housing and Finance Association Rental Assistance
IHFA administers the Housing Preservation Program (HPP), which is available to Idaho renters unable to pay their housing costs due to COVID-19. The program currently covers rent and utility costs for renters throughout Idaho (except in Ada County, continue reading for Ada County information) for a period of up to 15 months (retroactively or prospectively). This resource can be accessed through IHFA’s website or by calling 1-855-452-0801.
Approved payments are currently made directly to landlords or utility companies. Landlords may apply on a tenant’s behalf.
Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority
The Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities (BCACHA) administers the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). This program is designed to aid Ada County renters facing financial hardship because of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are currently renting and your household has experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19, you may be eligible to receive emergency rent and/or utility assistance.
The maximum amount of assistance households can receive is dependent upon need and funding availability. If you have any questions about eligibility, or if you need assistance completing the application, please call (208) 363-9710 or email erap@bcacha.org. Emergency rental assistance program applications can be completed online at erap.bcacha.org.
To qualify for rental assistance, you must:
- Be an Idaho resident (Ada County residents need to apply through Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority)
- Have a current lease agreement.
- Meet income eligibility criteria.
- Have a documented loss of income due to COVID-19.
- You may not receive rent or utility assistance from any other source (including federal, state, and local assistance).
Both IHFA and Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority will help renters and landlords complete this application and are available to answer any questions. Before moving to other non-profits for rental assistance, please first check your options with IHFA and/or Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority.
