City of Albuquerque opens applications for Emergency Rental Assistance

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Albuquerque residents can now submit applications for Emergency Rental Assistance, city officials announced Tuesday.

“Vaccines are rolling out and restrictions are lifting, but we can’t leave behind families who are still struggling to keep a roof over their heads and pay their utility bills due to the pandemic,” said Mayor Tim Keller in a press release. “This funding is a lifeline that will help stabilize Albuquerque families who are at risk of losing their homes.”

The city has partnered with the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration to administer $21.6 million in rental assistance to aid renters who are at or below 80% of the area median income, have been directly or indirectly impacted by the pandemic, or are at risk of homelessness.

Eligible households may receive up to 15 months of assistance, although households that need help with future assistance will be required to reapply every three months.

“This is a significant amount of support for Albuquerque and we want to make sure that everyone who could benefit is hearing about this opportunity and has the support they need to apply,” said Carol Pierce in a press release, director of the City’s Family and Community Services. “We have many partners throughout the City who are going to help spread the word and offer assistance to those who need it to apply.”

To apply for assistance, click here.