WEST PALM BEACH — The Palm Beach County Community Services Department (CSD) has opened its online portal for emergency rent and utility assistance. Renter households with at least one individual who has experienced a loss of income either directly or indirectly due to COVID-19 may qualify for assistance. Households must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income to be eligible. Individuals who qualify for unemployment, can demonstrate a risk of homelessness or housing instability and/or have incurred significant costs due to COVID-19 may also be eligible.

Electric assistance is also available to households that have not been financially impacted by COVID-19.

All applicants impacted financially by COVID -19 must present the following documentation in order to apply for rental and/or relocation assistance:
• evidence of COVID-19 direct or indirect impact
• evidence of risk of homelessness or housing instability
• evidence of income eligibility

• valid government issued ID
• Social Security Number for all household members. Applicant will have to provide copy of social security card. Household members may need to provide copy if deemed necessary by the Case Manager.

Rental assistance may be paid up to three months in advance and income must be recertified for each three (3) month period.

For rental assistance, landlords must be registered as vendors with Palm Beach County. Utility assistance is for electric, water, gas, sewer, trash removal and energy costs for eligible rental households only.

Applicants must submit the correct information along with all required documentation to expedite approval. Applications will be prioritized for clients who are below 50% AMI, facing evictions and currently unemployed.

In-person assistance and mobile outreach are available for individuals who:

• Lack computers or internet connection; or,
• Lack the skills needed to use a computer; or
• Have language barriers or developmental disabilities; or
• Are facing other barriers that prevent them from accessing the online application portal for rental assistance.

To view a detailed list of eligibility requirements and/or about the mobile outreach schedule call 561-355-4792 or visit www.RentalAssistancePBC.org