Maine's Eviction Prevention Program reopened to new applications September 21, offering rental assistance to eligible households that have fallen behind on payments and face losing their homes.
MaineHousing and Project Home announced the reopening September 18. Project Home, previously known as the Quality Housing Coalition, administers the program statewide under contract with the housing agency.
The reopening announcement lists basic requirements: applicants must rent their primary home in Maine, be behind on rent and at risk of eviction, owe no more than $9,600 in past-due rent, and have income at or below 60 percent of area median income.
Additional rent limits and rules concerning subsidized housing apply. A household meeting those basic conditions still needs to complete the application and supply documentation before the program determines eligibility.
MaineHousing's program page says priority goes first to eligible households with an eviction court summons, then to those with a nonpayment notice, and then to qualifying households spending more than 30 percent of income on rent.
Applicants need documentation of identity and housing, current gross income and the rent owed. Project Home also requests information from landlords. Approved payments go directly to the landlord.
The program has a one-time $11 million state allocation. MaineHousing says it will try to assist eligible applicants with complete applications, but cannot guarantee funds for everyone.
Residents can apply through MaineHousing's program page or contact Project Home at 207-274-1240 for application assistance.
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