Rent and utility assistance program to continue through 2022

SANTA FE – The state of New Mexico, in partnership with the City of Albuquerque, has awarded over $54M in rental and utility assistance to New Mexico households through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). An additional $71 million has been earmarked for innovative assistance programs being awarded over the coming months.

As a result of this effective progress, the important milestone of 65% allocation has been surpassed and the state will not revert any of the $185.5M in funds made available by the federal government.  

"Covid has been hard on everyone, but the pandemic has disproportionately affected the most economically disadvantaged New Mexicans,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. “So, it's our job as a state to provide support that is proportionate to the need of specific communities; and this program has helped and will continue to help people keep a roof over their heads, and I’m glad for the partnership at the federal, state and local levels that have made this possible now and over the next year.”

"Since day one, we have been working tirelessly to get this money to renters in New Mexico, and in doing so, we've created one of the best programs in the country," said the Department of Finance and Administration Secretary Debbie Romero. "Now that we have surpassed this milestone, we can focus on the next phase of the program. We want to keep people's utilities running, and their rent paid, so DFA will continue to think of innovative ways to help get this aid to struggling New Mexican households."

“Our partnership allowed us to effectively distribute these resources to keep Albuquerque families in their homes,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. “By consolidating these programs, we made it easier for folks to navigate the process and maximize the dollars available for this critical lifeline.”

While there is no cap on the amount of aid qualifying renters can receive, participating households have received on average $4,000 in rent and $750 in utility support. This support will continue as a multi-year program funded through the federal CARES Act and American Rescue Plan.

ERAP will continue to offer assistance to eligible applicants in a rental dwelling for up to 12 months of owed rent and utilities and 3 months of future rent and utilities. These funds do not have to be repaid. 

Those seeking assistance should visit www.RentHelpNM.org to apply.