The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has launched the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program (CHAP). This $6.2 million program funded by a federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) offers rental assistance to low-income renters in arrears.
To qualify, Tenants must earn 80 percent of the Median Family Income (MFI) or below based on the COVID-19 Income & Rental Schedule. Financial assistance is based on income and household size.
DC residents who have lived in their unit since Feb. 29, 2020, and impacted by COVID-19 can apply for assistance for rent from April 2020 onward for up to three months of overdue rent. Depending on funds, an additional three months for a total of six months of rental assistance may be available. Interested applicants are asked to fill out intake information by going to the central intake portal for emergency rental assistance. Click here to apply and read more about this program.
Proof of income will be collected on all residents of a unit who are 18 years and older using the following documents:
- Bank statements for Jan. and Feb. 2020;
- All earned wage income documents for two months per wage earner, prior to March 13, 2020;
- If a resident is 18 years or older and a full-time student, proof of current enrollment will be needed, and special rules will apply for their income calculation;
- In the absence of source income documentation, applicant shall provide a statement that includes all income, including any unemployment or emergency benefits received by the applicant as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a certification that the information provided is complete and accurate;
- Copy of current lease;
- Proof of COVID-19 related impact—notice of rent delinquency;
- Proof of request for a rental payment plan from unit owner due to COVID-19 related financial hardship.
Need rental assistance? Apply here at the emergency portal for rental assistance. Applicants are routed to:
- Greater Washington Urban League, – 202-524-8175 or email at covidrent@gwul.org.
- Housing Counseling Services – (202) 667-7713.
- United Planning Organization. – (202) 231-7910 or (202) 231-7922.
Each organization can answer questions, take applications, certify income and make payments to approved applicants by appointment only.
