The CDC has announced a new moratorium on evictions lasting through October 3, 2021. Alaska Housing Rent Relief stopped taking new applications on March 5, 2021. To find out the status of your application, you can go to the Check Status page of Alaska’s Housing Authority website. If you missed the deadline, you can go to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation registration page to sign up for future assistance and to check your eligibility.

How to Qualify

Who is eligible for assistance?

The maximum tenant household income cannot exceed 80% of the area’s median income. This includes annual and monthly income. It doesn’t matter where in Alaska you live. Everyone fills out the same application and receives the same assistance.

How do you apply?

Landlords
Use the Alaska Housing Rent Relief form to register and expedite your application process. If your tenants have missed the deadline, you can send them this link to be added to a waiting list for available future funds.

By registering, you will expedite the application process by uploading the documents required of tenants that they may not have easy access to. This may include copies of their lease agreements, W9 forms, and utility bills. Uploading your tax and payment information will also help expedite the process.

If you accept Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) housing vouchers, you may be able to take advantage of the Safety Net Program. This program reduces the rent your tenant’s pay temporarily, but increases the payments to you. Find out more here.

Eviction, forbearance, and foreclosure guidance
Landlords must be aware of the federal eviction and foreclosure processes. If you’re paying a mortgage on your rental properties, you can get more information here.

Tenants
What documents are needed to complete the application?
There are certain documents you will need to complete the initial application. They include, but may not be limited to:

  • Your government issued identification

  • Your current rental agreement

  • Statement of what rent is past due

  • If you’re requesting utility assistance, you’ll need copies of your past due utility bills.

  • Income verification documents. These include paystubs, 2020 fax return, tax form 1040, W-2s or 1099s.


After your application is completed, it will go through a verification process. If you are approved, funds will be sent directly to your landlord and the utility company.

For direct assistance, call toll free 844-330-8290.

FAQ


What assistance is provided?
Qualified Alaskans can get a maximum of 12 months of rent and utility assistance. Alaska Housing Rent Relief prioritizes the past due rent and three month installments for future rents.

If I’m approved, will the money be sent directly to me?
No. Funds are distributed to landlords, property managers, and utility companies directly.

Will I know when payments are made to the landlord and utility company?
Yes. You will receive an email with a confirmation code you can check.

Can I use the money for anything besides rent and utilities?
No.

If I’m approved, how long will I receive assistance?
You may receive assistance for 12 months with the possibility of a three month extension. Unpaid rent and utility bills dating back to March 13, 2020 will be paid first. Future assistance will depend on the availability of funds.

Will the back rent my tenants owe be paid to me in a lump sum?
Yes. Back rent for all qualifying tenants will be paid first. Rent will be paid monthly for all tenants who qualify for future rent assistance.

Will landlords be reimbursed for unpaid utility bills?
Yes. If the rent your tenants pay includes eligible utilities, that amount will be included in your payment.

Are landlords required to pay taxes on rent relief payments received?
Yes. All emergency rent relief payments made through Alaska Housing Rent Relief are taxable.