EBR Emergency Solutions

Updated January 07, 2022

1. I understand the program stopped taking new applications on 1/7/2022. Will the program accept applications again?)?

As of this moment, no. If the ERAP receives more ERAP funding that allows EBR to reopen the application portal, then EBR will do so. But without more funding, EBR cannot reopen applications.

2. How do I qualify to receive assistance through the Emergency Rental and Assistance Program (ERAP)?

An “eligible household” is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals meets the following criteria:
   •  Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19;
   •  Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
   •  Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median.

3. What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to apply for assistance to ERAP?

Please review the Renter Document Checklist

4. Will my information be kept confidential?

Employees and agents of the City-Parish will not disclose any applicant’s personal, confidential information as part of the program. All confidential information of applicants will be kept either in a locked secured storage facility or password protected electronic files. This information will be and unavailable to persons outside of the program.

5. What happens if I do not qualify for ERAP?

The City-Parish is developing holistic, community-based solutions to the challenges facing our residents. If you do not qualify for ERAP, but are still in need of assistance, our case managers will direct you to other assistance programs that you may qualify for.

6. What is the maximum amount of assistance that a person can receive?

Maximum amounts of assistance will vary on a case-by-case basis. Eligible households may receive up to twelve (12) months of assistance for overdue rent payments, plus an additional three (3) months for future rent payments if determined the extra months are needed to ensure housing stability (if grant funds are available), up to a maximum of $15,000 per household.

7. What zip codes are eligible for assistance under this program?

Please visit www.unitedstateszipcodes.org to search for the list of zip codes in East Baton Rouge Parish. If your zip code is not listed as being in East Baton Rouge Parish, you will not be eligible for the forthcoming assistance program for East Baton Rouge Parish. You may be eligible for assistance through the State. Please visit www.LAStateRent.com for more information.

8. If I previously applied for the prior state rental assistance program, do I need to apply again?

Yes, this is a separate program.

9. Will certain applications be processed before others?

Applications will be prioritized for processing as follows:
   •  Priority 1: Applicants facing imminent eviction AND are either 90 days unemployed OR have a household income at or below 50% AMI
   •  Priority 2: Applicants facing imminent eviction AND have a household income at or below 80% AMI
   •  Priority 3: Applicants who applied to the LERAP program in 2020 and were found eligible but did not receive funding
   •  Priority 4: All other applicants that meet program eligibility requirements

10. I need help with my utility payments. Is there assistance available?

Yes, the ERAP is now providing utility assistance (electric, water and sewer) to eligible renters. In addition to providing basic information as requested on the Renter Document Checklist , you will also need to submit the name of the utility account holder as well as the applicable account number. ERAP Case Managers will use the account number to obtain your account balance directly from the appropriate utility provider. A payment will be made directly to the provider on your behalf.

11. When will I receive assistance?

Applications are being processed as they are received according to program priorities. Current program funds need to be expended by 9/30/2022, but that does not mean it will take this long to provide assistance. Additional funding is also expected.

12. How to I file a complaint or an appeal?

Please use the forms found on the Resources page of this website.

13. If I already received rental assistance, will I still be eligible to receive utility assistance?

If you already received rental assistance, you may still be eligible to receive utility assistance. However, no eligible applicant may receive more than $15,000 combined in rental/utility assistance from the ERAP.

Questions & Answers