Assemblyman Colin J. Schmitt (R,C,I,LBT,SAM- New Windsor) is pleased to announce that following his efforts during the 2021 budget process, the $2.7 billion Rental Assistance Program providing emergency rental assistance for New Yorkers will be accessible starting June 1.

The emergency rental assistance program, which will utilize federal and state funding, was a major factor during the state budget process. Assemblyman Schmitt and the Assembly Minority Conference pushed to get this money authorized by the state to provide critically needed assistance directly to tenants and landlords to ensure housing stability.

Applications for this program will begin to be accepted on June 1. Eligible New Yorkers who suffered financial hardships due to COVID-19 and who were unable to pay rent will be able to apply for the New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which will provide them with assistance up to 12 months of past-due rent, 3 months of prospective rental assistance, and 12 months of utility arrears. The state forecasts anywhere from 170,000 to 200,000 households will be eligible to be served through this program.

For more information or to apply for this program beginning on June 1, please visit https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance/.

“This critical rental assistance program will help ensure housing stability across New York State,” Schmitt said. “Both tenants and landlords will be well served by this program. I was happy to work with my colleagues in the Assembly Minority Conference to advocate for this funding and get it released to those who need it most. I encourage all who are eligible to apply through the online system as soon as possible.”