Ohioans struggling to pay their rent or mortgage due to the COVID-19 pandemic can now breathe a sigh of relief. The Ohio Home Relief Grant is a program designed to provide financial assistance to eligible households. If you're one of the many individuals or families facing housing insecurity, this article will guide you through the 5 steps to apply for the Ohio Home Relief Grant.
What is the Ohio Home Relief Grant?
The Ohio Home Relief Grant is a program created by the State of Ohio to provide financial assistance to eligible households struggling to pay their rent or mortgage due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aims to help individuals and families maintain their housing stability and prevent eviction or foreclosure.
Who is Eligible for the Ohio Home Relief Grant?
To be eligible for the Ohio Home Relief Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of Ohio
- Be a renter or homeowner
- Have experienced a reduction in income or increase in expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Be at risk of eviction or foreclosure
- Have a gross income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying for the Ohio Home Relief Grant, it's essential to determine if you're eligible for the program. Review the eligibility criteria above and ensure you meet the requirements. You can also use the Ohio Development Services Agency's (ODSA) eligibility tool to check if you qualify.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for the Ohio Home Relief Grant, you'll need to gather the following documents:
- Identification (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, W-2 forms, or tax returns)
- Proof of rent or mortgage payments
- Proof of COVID-19 related hardship (letter from employer, doctor's note, or other documentation)
- Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) for all household members
Step 3: Complete the Application
Once you've gathered the required documents, you can complete the Ohio Home Relief Grant application. The application is available online through the ODSA's website. You can also contact a local Community Action Agency (CAA) for assistance with the application process.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After completing the application, submit it to the ODSA or your local CAA. Ensure you've included all required documents and information to avoid delays in the processing of your application.
Step 5: Review and Approval
Once your application is received, it will be reviewed for eligibility and completeness. If your application is approved, you'll receive notification of the award amount and instructions on how to receive the funds.
Additional Resources
If you're struggling to pay your rent or mortgage, there are additional resources available to help:
- Ohio Development Services Agency (ODSA):
- Community Action Agencies (CAAs):
- Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA):
What is the Ohio Home Relief Grant?
+The Ohio Home Relief Grant is a program designed to provide financial assistance to eligible households struggling to pay their rent or mortgage due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
How do I apply for the Ohio Home Relief Grant?
+To apply for the Ohio Home Relief Grant, complete the application online through the ODSA's website or contact a local CAA for assistance.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Ohio Home Relief Grant?
+To be eligible for the Ohio Home Relief Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria: be a resident of Ohio, be a renter or homeowner, have experienced a reduction in income or increase in expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, be at risk of eviction or foreclosure, and have a gross income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
We hope this article has provided you with the necessary information to apply for the Ohio Home Relief Grant. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to the ODSA or your local CAA.