Eviction Prevention Funds and Alaska Renters’ Rights

If you’re an Alaska renter worried about eviction, help is available. Alaska offers eviction prevention funds and rental assistance programs to help tenants stabilize their housing and avoid losing their homes. Understanding how to access these resources—and your rights under Alaska law—can make a big difference if you’re behind on rent or facing a notice from your landlord.

Understanding Alaska’s Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance

Eviction prevention funds help renters at risk of losing their housing due to unpaid rent or other financial struggles. In Alaska, the main programs and resources include:

• Alaska Housing Rent Relief and Eviction Prevention Program: Administered by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), this program provides emergency rental assistance and mediation for tenants facing eviction.
• Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP): Offers short-term financial aid for low-income households experiencing a housing crisis. Visit the Department of Health: ATAP page for eligibility and applications.
• Local assistance and non-profits: Many cities and boroughs partner with agencies to provide extra support, such as the Anchorage Renters’ Assistance Center.

Eligibility for these programs typically depends on income and demonstrating a financial hardship. Funds can help with back rent, future rent, utilities, and sometimes moving costs.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• Eviction Answer (Alaska Court System CIV-735)
  

  If you receive an eviction notice or a court summons, you can use the Eviction Answer Form (CIV-735) to respond. This is filed with the Alaska Court System before your court date. For example, if you’re seeking time to access rental assistance, you can explain your situation on the form.

• Request for Mediation (Alaska Court System Form ADR-100)
  

  If you’d like to try to mediate your dispute with your landlord (possibly to secure more time for rental aid), you may submit a Request for Mediation Form (ADR-100) with the court. This form asks the court to schedule a mediation session instead of proceeding directly to eviction.

Which Authority Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes?

Alaska’s residential tenancy matters are overseen by the state court system. Specifically, the Alaska Court System Small Claims and District Courts handle eviction cases (also called forcible entry and detainer cases).

The Alaska Court System has resources explaining how eviction works, court forms, and information about both landlord and tenant rights.

Your Rights and Legal Protections as a Renter

As an Alaska renter, your rights are protected by the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹ Key protections include:

• Your landlord must give written notice before filing for eviction.
• You have the right to respond in court and request more time if you’re working to secure rental assistance.
• Eviction cases must follow proper legal processes—your landlord cannot lock you out or remove your belongings without a court order.

If you’re seeking help through eviction prevention funds, be sure to inform the court and your landlord in writing, and provide proof of your application or approval where possible.

Steps to Access Eviction Prevention Assistance in Alaska

If you’re struggling to pay rent and facing potential eviction, act quickly to seek help:

• Contact the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to apply for rental assistance or mediation.
• If you receive an eviction notice, review the documentation for your response deadline and submit the relevant forms (like the Eviction Answer).
• Gather proof of hardship (such as job loss, medical expenses) for your application and in any court proceedings.
• Reach out to local housing agencies or legal advocates for support with the process.

Acting quickly increases your chances of keeping your housing and avoiding court-ordered eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of financial assistance are available for Alaska renters at risk of eviction?
   Alaska renters can apply for the Alaska Housing Rent Relief and Eviction Prevention Program, the Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP), and local borough or non-profit emergency aid.
2. What should I do if I get an eviction notice?
   Review your notice carefully, complete the Eviction Answer Form (CIV-735), and file it with your court by the listed deadline. You may also contact AHFC or local organizations for help.
3. Can applying for rental assistance stop an eviction in Alaska?
   It may delay the process, especially if you notify the court and your landlord; courts sometimes grant extra time for rental aid application approval.
4. Where do I file an Eviction Answer Form?
   Submit the completed CIV-735 to your local Alaska District or Small Claims Court as indicated in your eviction paperwork.
5. Who can I contact about my legal rights as a renter?
   The Alaska Court System provides legal information, and AHFC and local legal aid offices can assist with questions and paperwork.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Housing Rent Relief and Mediation Program – Apply for aid and find help avoiding eviction.
• Alaska Court System Self-Help Housing Resources – Guidance on eviction, forms, and court processes.
• Alaska Department of Law: Landlord & Tenant Rights – Clear explanations of your rights under state law.
• Alaska Temporary Assistance Program – Short-term financial support for housing crises.
• For legal help, consider contacting Alaska Legal Services Corporation: ALSC official site

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1. Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03)
2. Alaska Housing Relief Program (AHFC)
3. Alaska Court System Eviction Answer Form (CIV-735)
4. Alaska Court System Request for Mediation (ADR-100)
5. Alaska Court System Housing Self-Help Center

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