Economic hardships are not uncommon for Nevada residents. Because of this, covering housing expenses can be challenging. Job losses, reduced hours, and the higher cost of living has caused the need for rental assistance to skyrocket. Due to widespread need, state organizations have worked to provide support through Nevada emergency rental assistance programs.

If you're a Nevada tenant and you're struggling to make ends meet, it's important to get familiar with the different assistance programs available.

Understanding Nevada Emergency Rental Assistance

Many individuals and families in Nevada struggle to keep up with the ever-increasing cost of rents throughout the state. In response to these challenges, several government and charitable organizations have established programs to help residents secure safe, affordable housing. Numerous programs exist, and each has its own set of eligibility requirements, application processes, rules, and waiting lists.

Let's go over some of the unique Nevada emergency rental assistance programs that stand to help the state's citizens.

Nevada CARES Act Housing Assistance

The Nevada CARES Act Housing Assistance Program was established to provide housing assistance to Nevadans in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program offers individuals and families both rental and mortgage assistance funds.

The CARES Act helps prevent evictions and foreclosures as residents struggle to get back on their feet after the pandemic. This way, Nevada families can remain in their homes despite financial hardship. The program is available throughout Nevada, making it viable for those seeking emergency rental assistance in Reno, NV.

Nevada Rural Housing Program (NRH)

The Nevada Rural Housing Program offers rural Nevadans affordable housing opportunities. The program provides several services, including rental assistance, homebuyer resources, and financing options for purchasing homes. It's designed to assist low and moderate-income families with securing stable housing.

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN)

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) offers several supportive services to Nevada families. These options include emergency rental assistance, utility assistance, and various case management services. The LSSN aims to prevent homelessness and offer a helping hand to those in need.

HopeLink of Southern Nevada

HopeLink of Southern Nevada has several services that assist families facing housing instability. The program is especially helpful for individuals seeking emergency rental assistance in Las Vegas, Nevada, where housing costs are high. HopeLink offers rental assistance, utility help, and housing counseling services.

Eviction Prevention CHAP Program

The Eviction Prevention CHAP (Coronavirus Housing Assistance Program) provides both rental and housing assistance. These options are available to the individuals and families impacted by the recent pandemic. The program prevents evictions by offering financial support to cover overdue (and current) rent. These services help keep struggling families in their homes while they work to overcome hardships.

Section 8 Nevada

Section 8 is a federal program that's administered by Nevada's Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). The program provides low-income individuals and families with rental assistance. This way, they can secure and maintain affordable housing. Through Section 8, residents receive housing vouchers that cover a portion of their rental costs. Their income covers the rest of the housing expenses in question.

Rental and Deposit Assistance Program

The Rental and Deposit Assistance Program provides Nevada residents with financial aid to cover rental costs and move-in expenses. These may include the first month's rent, security deposits, and ongoing rental assistance. This program is designed to support Nevadans who are transitioning into stable housing but may be short on the funds they need to cover beginning home expenses.

Who Qualifies for Emergency Rental Assistance?

Each program has its own set of requirements, but generally, applicants need to meet one or more of the following criteria.

Limited Income: Household income must usually be at or below 80% of the area's median income (AMI). In some cases, priority is given to households with incomes below 50% of the AMI.

Financial Hardship: Families who have fallen into financial hardship (such as job loss, health conditions, or reduced hours) will likely qualify.

Housing Instability: Applicants who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless will likely qualify for assistance.

How to Pursue Nevada Emergency Rental Assistance

Despite the fact that several Nevada emergency rental assistance programs exist, finding the right one can be difficult. Fortunately, there are several additional resources Nevadans can pursue for guidance.

If you’re struggling to access Nevada housing programs, contact your local Division of Welfare and Supportive Services center, or visit Nevada 211 for more information. Caseworkers and volunteers for these services can direct you toward resources that meet your family’s needs.

The economic impacts on Nevada residents have made it clear that a well-rounded support system is a must. If your family is struggling, research each program's resources, requirements, and application process so that you can secure housing assistance as quickly as possible.

If you need more information about Nevada’s housing assistance options, check out the Affordable Housing Hub’s Section 8 resources, or explore open waiting lists.