CINCINNATI — Hamilton County is opening its checkbook to help eligible residents cover the cost of rent and utilities.
What You Need To Know
- The 513 Relief program offers assistance to residents who need help covering rent, utility costs because of the pandemic
- Hamilton County relaunched the program after receiving $12 million for the federal government
- The county reminded homeowners that resources are available for them as well
Starting Monday, Hamilton County Job and Family Services will begin accepting applications from renters through its 513 Relief program. As part of the program, the county agrees to pay up to 15 months rent — 12 past due and three future — and utilities for eligible renters at or below 80% of the Area Median Income.
Renters also must be able to show they’ve experienced a financial impact caused by the pandemic, such as a lost job.
Applicants who’ve already received the full 15 months of rent assistance are no longer eligible, per the city.
“With winter weather upon us, we know some Hamilton County residents are struggling to heat their homes and pay the rent,” said County Commissioner Denise Driehaus.
The county described the program as a relaunch of the 513 Relief effort it began during the pandemic. The county suspended the program in the summer while it awaited more federal funding.
That happened earlier this week when the County Commissioners voted to approve a $12 million influx in federal emergency rent and utility relief funding.
Beyond the pandemic hardship, a qualified renter must have a household income of no greater than 80% AMI. As a reference, that’s $47,850 for a single-person household and $68,300 for a family of four.
A county spokesperson said these new funds should benefit between 3,000 and 3,500 households.
As of September 2022, the County had distributed $44.9 million in emergency rental and utility aid to more than 12,000 renters, per the county.
The county also reminded homeowners of the State of Ohio’s Save the Dream program, which provides funds to cover delinquent or future mortgage payments.
The maximum income for the state’s mortgage program is 150% AMI.
For those who do not qualify for the state’s program, Hamilton County set aside money in their American Rescue Plan allocation for homeowners to keep them from foreclosure.
“Our job is not done. Families are still struggling to pay the bills with inflation, higher fuel costs and lost income due to the pandemic,” said Commission President Stephanie Summerow.
Details about the programs are available at 513Relief.org.
