.svg){kind=icon}
Thanks to the Missouri Housing Development Commission and the Missouri Department of Social Services, the ERA program was able to provide emergency rental arrears assistance. This means that tenants and landlords would be able to get the financial support they needed during the pandemic.
Here, we'll walk you through the process of applying for the Missouri ERAP, as well as other important information you should know.
Disclaimer: At the time of writing, the Missouri Emergency Rental Assistance Program isn't accepting new applications. You can check out the Missouri Housing Resources website for updated information about the program and/or other alternatives to consider.
What Is ERAP in Missouri?
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (also known as "Missouri Emergency Rental Arrears Program - ERAP") helped reimburse landlords for past-due rent payments, late fees, utility bills, and other related expenses related to their renters.
How Does ERAP Work in Missouri?
Those who applied for this rental assistance program would receive a one-time payment that covered up to six months of rental arrears. The landlord was responsible for receiving the funds on the tenant's behalf.
Here's how eligibility worked for Missouri's program:
- Have a household income of 80% (or less) than the area median income.
- Prove that you (or another member) of the household is at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
- Prove that you (or another member) of the household experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19 or are eligible for unemployment benefits.
What's the Difference Between ERAP1 and ERAP2?
ERAP1 was approved by the Consolidated Appropriations Act in 2021, and it provided $25 billion in funding for eligible households. ERAP2, on the other hand, was approved by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and it gave states another $21.55 billion in funding. Both phases served the same purpose, although the second one offered more flexibility surrounding the coverage.
How Does ERAP Benefit Landlords in Missouri?
Landlords who got paid through the rental assistance program ensured a constant flow of income, at least for some time. This helped avoid evictions and other conflict with tenants, which provided more peace of mind for everyone.
What Is the Landlord's Role in ERAP?
Even though the Missouri Emergency Rental Assistance Program was designed for tenants, landlords can help them submit the required documents and verify their claims. This increases the chances of getting the request approved.
Can Tenants on Other Housing Plans Apply for ERAP in Missouri?
Research suggests that Missouri allowed renters to submit their ERAP application while they were under other housing plans (such as Section 8). However, their approval would depend on the type of assistance they were already getting. If the tenant was receiving an amount of money equal to their monthly rent, they would not be able to get support from ERAP.
How to Apply for ERAP in Missouri
Gather Documents
First, you must get any documentation that proves your leasing relationship, the applicant's income, and other related information. Some of these documents include:
- Copy of the lease contract
- ID documentation
- Past-due rent statements
- Utility invoices
- Other proof of COVID-19's impact on the applicant's finances
Submit Your Application
Go to Missouri's official ERAP portal, and follow the instructions. It will give you a step-by-step guide on how to submit each document.
Wait for Approval
Wait until a program representative reaches out with more information about your application.
Learn How You Can Use DoorLoop to Check for Information and Other Resources
You can use DoorLoop's portal to check the latest information on Missouri's rental market. Whether there's a new rental assistance program coming up, or you want to know the most recent laws for property managers and lease agreements, rest assured you'll find everything you need there.
Bottom Line
Are you struggling to keep track of your rent payments or communicate with your tenant? You can use DoorLoop to make everything easier.
Its fast and intuitive platform helps landlords in Missouri manage their entire rental portfolio from the same place, ensuring you make the most out of your time and money. Request a demo today to discover what DoorLoop has to offer.
.svg)
