Outsiders might think all adult industry models are rolling in cash — thanks, mainstream media! — but insiders know that’s not always true. There are all kinds of reasons why models might find it difficult to keep up with monthly expenses, and times have been especially difficult.
If you’re struggling to make rent, here’s some good news: the Covid relief legislation passed by Congress last month includes a $25 million pile of money set aside just to help renters stay in their homes.
Do you qualify?
Do you qualify for emergency rental assistance? There are three main checkboxes you’ll have to meet. Consider:
1. At least one person in your household will need to be qualified to receive unemployment benefits. Or, if that’s not the case, you’ll have to swear in writing that you’ve incurred a large expense or lost significant income due to the pandemic.
2. You can’t have income that exceeds 80% of the median income for your area. Note that you’ll get prioritized treatment if your income is 50% or lower than the median or if you’ve been out of work for 90 days or more.
3. You’ll need to show that you’re at risk of eviction. If you have past due rent notices, this will work. Past due utility bills may also work.
It’s also true that Congress extended the moratorium on evictions through January – and it looks likely that moratorium may be further extended by the new Congress. But that doesn’t mean you want to fall behind on your rent if you can help it, because eventually that bill will come due.
If you qualify for emergency rental assistance, you can get help with up to 12 months of back rent and utility bills. Plus, depending on availability of funds, the possibility exists for up to three additional months of assistance.
How do you apply to get aid?
How to apply for these funds is less clear of course, but don’t let that stop you. Your landlord can apply for you, with your cooperation. Or, if that’s not an option, your best bet is to find and reach out to a local housing group it your area – since the implementation will vary by locality.
Financial assistance aside, it’s also important to know that many landlords might try to ignore the moratorium and illegally evict you anyway. If that happens, know your rights. You do have to take a few steps to prevent eviction – such as providing a signed declaration to your landlord stating that certain conditions are true.
If you’ve done everything you can and your landlord is still trying to evict you, you can check out LawHelp.org to find legal assistance. The site can help you find low cost or even free legal help in your state to fight against an illegal eviction attempt.
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Kai Morgan has spent more than ten years writing copy for tech companies. She is fiercely independent and thrives in non-traditional working environments. Contact her via kai@ynotcam.com.
Image via Unsplash here.
