UNION COUNTY, N.C. — Union County is sending out cash to eligible renters as part of a coronavirus pandemic relief program.

The Union County Emergency Rental Assistance Program is a new initiative, born out of federal coronavirus relief bills.

The county has about $15.7 million in the program for renters who meet certain criteria.

What You Need To Know

  • A new county program is set to help renters across the county who struggled through pandemic

  • Qualifying renters can receive assistance for up to 12 months of back pay rent and/or three months of future rent

  • Renters must meet specific criteria to be eligible for portion of $15.7 million relief fund

"This is brand new for our county, some other counties as well. So, we had to put all the infrastructure in place, and that took a little while. But this is brand new to our county and we’re super excited to be able to provide this to people in need,” Stephanie Starr said.

Starr is in her third year as the division director of community support and outreach for the county.

The new program took several weeks to build and develop along the federal guidelines, but now the county is currently helping about 20 families.

“It will last as long as we have the money, and we are able to assist people,” Starr added.

The program is only open to renters in Union County who meet the following criteria:

  • Renters must make 80% or less than the area median income
  • Renters must have some coronavirus pandemic-related financial hardship, including a lost job, wages or hours at work
  • Or, renters must have experienced other pandemic-related financial strain like new childcare costs or taken time away from work to care for children or sick relatives

Starr said even if you are not sure you are eligible, you should apply.

"Please, please apply. Even if you are not sure if you qualify, just apply. You will be required to upload a good amount of documents, and we know that that could be difficult. But, we’re also here to assist. So, if you are having technical difficulties, you can make an appointment to come into our office here,” Starr said.

The program can back pay 12 months of rent or bills, and three months into the future, if needed. The funding can also be used for some utilities, including water, electricity and internet. 

The program does operate on a priority system, meaning families making 50% or less of the area median income will receive priority, along with households where there has been unemployment for more than 90 days due to COVID-19.

The county's website features a chart explaining the income requirements and the area median income for Union County residents.

Starr also urged potential applicants to be prepared to upload several documents, including a government ID, proof of occupancy, proof of COVID-19 related financial hardship, proof of income for all household residents, landlord’s contact information, lease agreement, and detailed ledger, utility statements if applicable, W-9 from landlord if needed, and proof of other federal assistance received, if applicable.

You can read more about eligibility for the program and apply here.