Are any COVID-19 eviction protections still in effect in Alabama?

No, as of this year, Alabama has no statewide or federal COVID-19 eviction protections. Standard Alabama eviction laws now apply.

What should I do if I get a 7-day notice for unpaid rent?

Read the notice carefully, mark deadlines, and consider responding to the court or contacting your landlord to discuss options.

Is rental assistance still available in Alabama?

The statewide Emergency Rental Assistance Program is closed, but check with your local housing authority for possible local help.

Where can I find official eviction forms?

Alabama eviction forms like the Summons and Complaint are available through the Alabama Judicial System website.

Which court handles eviction cases for renters in Alabama?

Alabama District Court in your property's county handles eviction (unlawful detainer) proceedings for renters.

COVID-19 Eviction Protections for Renters in Alabama

Evictions & Lease Violations Alabama published: June 21, 2025

If you are renting in Alabama and worried about eviction, especially due to financial hardship caused by COVID-19, it's important to know what rights and protections are (and are not) currently available. This guide provides up-to-date information about pandemic-related eviction laws, procedures, and resources from reliable Alabama government sources.

Are COVID-19 Eviction Protections Still Active in Alabama?

Most federal and state-level COVID-19 eviction protections in Alabama ended in 2021. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) eviction moratorium expired in August 2021, and Alabama did not extend any additional state-wide eviction bans or rental assistance protections after that date.^[1]

Currently, standard Alabama landlord-tenant law applies to all residential evictions. Renters who are behind on rent or face eviction for another lease violation do not have special COVID-19 protections as of this year. However, some assistance programs may still be available for those needing help catching up on rent.

What Rules Apply if You Face Eviction Now?

Landlords must still follow the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, including providing written notice before filing for eviction.
Renters behind on rent usually receive a 7-day written notice before the landlord can file for eviction in court.
No federal or Alabama-wide COVID-19 eviction bans are currently in effect. Local city or county protections are not in place as of this year.

If you receive an eviction notice, you should act quickly to protect your rights and consider reaching out to local resources for help with emergency rent or legal aid (see below).

What to Do if You Receive an Eviction Notice

Facing eviction can feel overwhelming, but following the right steps can help ensure your rights are protected:

Read the notice carefully and note important deadlines.
Communicate in writing with your landlord if you need to request more time or discuss payment arrangements.
Gather records such as your lease, payment receipts, and any written communication with your landlord.
Consider applying for rental assistance if available in your area.
If you intend to contest the eviction, you must respond to the court summons after the landlord files the case.

Relevant Forms for Alabama Renters

Eviction Summons and Complaint (Form C-34): If your landlord files an eviction in court, you will be served with this form. It notifies you that a formal eviction action has started. View and download Summons and Complaint for Unlawful Detainer.
Example: You receive this form after ignoring a 7-day notice to pay overdue rent.
Answer to Unlawful Detainer (no specific state form): Renters may respond in writing to the court or at the initial hearing to dispute the eviction, request a trial, or raise defenses. See Alabama District Courts for local filing rules.
Example: You believe the landlord's claim is unfounded, so you file a response and attend your hearing.
Rental Assistance Application: Alabama's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is no longer taking new applications, but local agencies may have limited rental aid. Check with your city or county. Learn more about ERAP Alabama.

If you are served with court papers, respond by attending your hearing or submitting a written answer as soon as possible. This is your chance to explain your side and avoid a default eviction judgment.

Your Rights and Protections Under Alabama Law

Alabama's main tenancy law is the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2] The law protects both renters and landlords by requiring proper notice before eviction and ensuring fair court proceedings. It does not include special pandemic-related rules at this time.

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Alabama?

Eviction and residential rental disputes are handled by the Alabama District Court in the county where your property is located.

FAQ: Alabama COVID-19 Eviction Protections

Are any COVID-19 eviction protections still in effect in Alabama?
No, there are no current federal or statewide COVID-19 eviction protections for renters in Alabama. Standard eviction laws now apply.
What should I do if I receive a 7-day eviction notice for unpaid rent?
Review the notice carefully, check the deadline, and consider contacting your landlord, applying for assistance, or responding through court if you intend to contest it.
Can I still apply for rental assistance in Alabama?
Alabama's statewide Emergency Rental Assistance Program is closed, but some local agencies or nonprofits may have limited aid. Check with your local housing authority.
What if I can't make my rent due to COVID-19 illness or job loss?
There are no special COVID-19 defenses under current law. However, you may discuss payment plans with your landlord and look for local rent relief resources.
Where do I file an answer to an eviction lawsuit?
File your answer with the Alabama District Court listed on your Summons and Complaint, either in writing or by appearing at your scheduled hearing.

Key Takeaways

COVID-19 eviction bans have expired, so Alabama's regular landlord-tenant laws apply.
Always read eviction notices and court documents carefully and respond promptly.
Contact your local court or housing resources if you have questions or need legal assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Find your local Alabama District Court – handles eviction and housing disputes
Alabama Emergency Rental Assistance Program – see updates and helpful links for renters
Alabama Legal Help - Evictions – plain-language help and legal info for tenants
Alabama Housing Finance Authority - Resident Resources

See Alabama’s official COVID-19 eviction policy update and Federal CDC order withdrawal notice.
Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (§ 35-9A-101 et seq.)