Eviction moratorium is about to expire — here’s how to get help in Utah when it does
By Katie McKellar – Deseret News
An estimated 3.6 million Americans are at risk of eviction, some in a matter of days. Yet billions in federal money already approved for housing aid across the country — including about $150 million in Utah — remain untouched.
Even before President Joe Biden’s administration extended the moratorium from June 30 to July 31, Utah housing advocates and state officials embarked on a push to get over $180 million in available rental assistance in the hands of struggling Utahns.
As of Friday, Utah still had about $150 million available in emergency rental assistance available to distribute, according to the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
So while millions have been distributed, according to state officials, there’s still plenty to go around for strapped renters.
“We encourage anyone who has been impacted by the pandemic and is struggling to pay their rent to learn more and apply at rentrelief.utah.gov,” Christina Oliver, director of the state’s Housing and Community Development Division, said in a prepared statement issued Friday. “There are plenty of funds available to pay for rent, utilities, fees and more. Also, we want to remind landlords that they can apply on behalf of their tenants.”