TENNESSEE — The Tennessee Housing Development Agency announced an online portal that allows renters and landlords to apply for up to 12 months of cumulative rent and/or utility payments through its new COVID-19 Rent Relief Program.

The COVID-19 Rent Relief Program is designed to support renters who are or have been, struggling to pay rent, utilities or other home energy costs due to loss of income resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, a release said.

“The pandemic has had a tremendous impact on the livelihoods of countless Tennesseans,” said THDA Executive Director Ralph M. Perrey. “This program is designed to help people stay in their homes by covering eligible rent and/or utility costs they are unable to pay due to the challenges presented by COVID-19.”

91 of Tennessee’s 95 counties will have this program.

Renters in those counties who have experienced economic hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and earn less than 80 percent of the area median income may be eligible for this assistance. More details on eligibility are available online at thda.org/covidrentrelief or individuals can call (844) 500-1112.

WHAT TO DO?

To start the application process:

• Landlord or tenant should access the online portal or call the COVID-19 Rent Relief Call Center at (844) 500-1112.
• Both landlords and tenants will be required to provide verification and documentation as proof of eligibility.
• Once approved, payments will be made directly to the landlord or utility company on behalf of the tenant.
• Individuals can monitor the status of their application and payment through the online portal.