Rental Assistance Grants Available To Ocean County Residents

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Ocean County residents who are struggling to pay their rent or may be facing eviction because of the coronavirus pandemic can apply for the Ocean County Residential Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

The applications opened online Wednesday on the Ocean County website. Click on View Residential Emergency Rental Assistance Program for program information and the application.

The program is open only to Ocean County residential renters and landlords. The grant will cover up to six months back rent. The program is supported by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and uses an $18 million grant from the Treasury Department to help residents catch up on back rent.

The maximum grant amount is $10,644 and will be paid directly to the landlord.

"It’s paramount that we make every effort to help our residents maintain housing stability," Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn said.

"With so many families having children learn remotely and so many of our seniors living alone, the fear of losing your housing can be overwhelming," Quinn said. "This program will assist those who have fallen behind in their rent whether from loss of employment or getting sick from COVID-19."

Applicants will need to certify that they have not received assistance from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ program or other rental assistance programs before receiving benefits from Ocean County’s program.

Applicants will need to demonstrate that their income does not exceed the Area Median Income limits and that they were unable to pay their rent due to COVID-19. Income limits are listed on the web page. You will also need to provide a current lease/rental agreement and provide all required documents for your application to be considered complete.

This program also requires participation of the applicant’s landlord to provide information for rental assistance payment. Tenants and landlord applicants are encouraged to work together to receive funds quickly, if approved.

Landlords can apply on behalf of tenants.

Help also is available through the Ocean County Residential Emergency Rental Assistance Program call center; the number is 833-753-9671.

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