Philadelphia’s latest rental and utility assistance program is now open for tenants and landlords

Philadelphia’s latest iteration of its pandemic rental assistance program, which for the first time includes funds for renters’ utility payments, is accepting applications from tenants and landlords.

People who have experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic can apply for a piece of the roughly $97 million in federal funds now available in this latest round of assistance at phlrentassist.org. Tenants and landlords can receive up to 18 months of rent and/or utility assistance, with rent payments capping out at $2,000 monthly and $2,000 each for water, electric, and gas bills.

The city has distributed more than $65 million to more than 14,000 households since last May, according to Mayor Jim Kenney. Tenants who have received assistance in prior phases of the program are eligible to apply again for months not already covered.

Tenants must meet income requirements and show that they are at risk of housing instability or homelessness without assistance. Landlords cannot begin eviction proceedings against tenants receiving funds for 90 days from the last month of assistance.

Tenants can call 311 with questions.

The city’s rental assistance program has raised more than $100,000 in donations and is asking individuals and companies to continue to contribute.