WASHINGTON—The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has released an online tool it said it designed to help renters and landlords impacted by the pandemic easily find and apply for payment assistance for rent, utilities and other expenses.
The Rental Assistance Finder, available at www.consumerfinance.gov/renthelp, connects renters and landlords with the state and local programs that are distributing billions of dollars in federal assistance nationwide to help renters stay housed during the pandemic, according to the CFPB.
“Millions of people are behind on their rent and at risk of eviction as a result of the pandemic,” said CFPB Acting Director Dave Uejio in a statement. “The Rental Assistance Finder will make it easier for renters and landlords to locate the financial assistance available in their area. People across the country are already receiving billions of dollars in assistance, and with this new tool we hope even more renters and landlords will take advantage of this emergency relief. This money is a win-win for both landlords and renters and a better outcome for all than costly, needless evictions.”
The CFPB said its analysis of Census Household Pulse Survey data from June 23–July 5 found 16% of adults living in households who rent said they are currently behind on their payments. Of adults living in households behind on rent, 49%, or approximately 3.6 million, said eviction in the next two months is somewhat or very likely.
More Than $46-Billion Allocated
The Bureau noted the federal government has allocated more than $46 billion to assist households unable to pay rent, utilities, and other housing costs.
The CFPB said it is working closely with partners across the federal government to provide homeowners and renters the resources they need, including information to understand their rights and protections.
Along with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Housing and Urban Development, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the CFPB noted it has created consumerfinance.gov/housing, which serves as the federal government’s one-stop, go-to resource for up-to-date information on relief options, protections, and key deadlines.