Emergency Rent Relief Options for Florida Renters

If you're a renter in Florida facing financial hardship or potential eviction, know that you have emergency rent relief options. Understanding how to get help quickly can mean the difference between staying in your home and facing displacement. This guide explains Florida's emergency rental assistance programs, official forms, and the steps to request help, making the process more manageable in your time of need.

Florida Emergency Rental Assistance: What Is Available?

Florida provides several programs to help renters who are behind on rent or at risk of eviction due to unforeseen emergencies like job loss, medical issues, or natural disasters. Many of these resources are delivered through statewide agencies or local programs funded by federal and state government.

Key Emergency Rent Relief Programs in Florida

• Our Florida (Emergency Rental Assistance Program): Although this program closed to new applications in 2022, similar rental aid is now managed at the local city/county level. Some programs provide both rental and utility help. See Florida Department of Children and Families - Emergency Rental Assistance for updates.
• Community Action Agencies (CAAs): Nearly every Florida county has a CAA or local government office distributing emergency rent relief funds. Access the full directory at the Florida Association for Community Action Agency Directory.
• Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC): This statewide agency guides renters to active assistance programs and has foreclosure/eviction prevention tools. Get current information at the FHFC Hardest-Hit Housing Programs.

Most emergency rental assistance programs in Florida require you to demonstrate that you experienced financial hardship, are experiencing housing instability or at risk of homelessness, and meet certain income limits.

Who Is Eligible for Emergency Rent Assistance?

While requirements can vary by county, you are generally eligible for emergency rent relief in Florida if:

• Your household income is at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI)
• You are behind on rent payments, facing eviction, or at risk of homelessness
• You experienced a financial hardship, such as job loss, health emergency, or unexpected expenses
• You are renting a home or apartment as your primary residence

Documents and Forms You May Need

To apply for emergency rental assistance in Florida, you may need to submit:

• Photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
• Lease agreement or proof of residency
• Proof of income (paystubs, unemployment, benefits)
• Past-due rent or eviction notice from your landlord
• Proof of hardship (such as a layoff letter)

Essential Official Forms for Florida Renters

Every county or city may have its own application forms. However, these are common standardized forms/processes you may encounter during emergency rent relief:

1. Emergency Rental Assistance Application (Local Form)

• Form Name: Varies by city/county (e.g., Miami-Dade Emergency Rental Assistance Application or Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance Intake Form)
• When to Use: Complete when requesting emergency funds for back rent or utilities.
• How to Use: Fill out all required fields and attach supporting documentation. For example, upload your lease, pay stubs, and eviction notice if applicable. Submit to your local program either online or at a government office.
• Official Sources:
  • Miami-Dade County Emergency Rental Assistance
  • Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance

2. 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (Statutory Notice)

• Form Name: 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate
• When to Use: This notice is served by landlords before filing for eviction if rent is unpaid.
• How to Use: If you receive this, use it as proof of urgent need when applying for emergency rental assistance. You are allowed three days (excluding weekends/holidays) to pay the overdue rent or move out per Section 83.56 Florida Statutes.
• Official Source: See Florida DBPR Eviction Information.

3. Application for Stay of Writ of Possession (Form 1.914(b))

• Form Name: Application for Stay of Writ of Possession (Form 1.914(b))
• When to Use: If the court has ordered your eviction, use this to request a delay while you secure emergency funds.
• How to Use: Fill out the form clearly, explain your circumstances, and submit it to the clerk of the court where your eviction case is filed. Attach proof of ongoing rental assistance application.
• Official Source: Download from the Florida Bar

How To Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance in Florida

Applying for rent relief can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into clear steps helps renters take the right actions quickly.

• Locate your local emergency rental assistance program through your county or city website or via the Florida Housing website.
• Gather necessary documents: lease, photo ID, proof of income, eviction notice.
• Complete the official application form (see links above for local programs).
• Check your application status. Many agencies provide online status checks or a helpline.
• Inform your landlord in writing when you apply—this may pause any eviction action.

Act quickly if you receive an eviction notice. Applying for assistance and letting your landlord know may help delay legal proceedings while your application is reviewed.

The Tribunal or Court Handling Tenancy Disputes

Residential tenancy matters, including eviction proceedings and rent disputes, are generally heard in the Florida County Courts. If you need to contest a notice or file documents related to an eviction, you will interact with the local county court clerk’s office.

The relevant tenancy law for rentals in Florida is the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83).¹

FAQ: Emergency Rent Relief for Florida Renters

1. Can I still apply for emergency rent relief if I’ve already received an eviction notice?
   Yes. Many programs prioritize renters facing eviction—submit your application right away and inform the court if you are waiting for assistance.
2. How long does it take to receive emergency rental assistance in Florida?
   Processing times vary, but many local programs aim to review applications within two to four weeks. Check with your local agency for updates.
3. Does emergency rent relief cover utility payments?
   Many programs do offer help with utility bills in addition to back rent. Read your local program guidelines for details.
4. What happens if my landlord refuses rent relief payments?
   If your landlord refuses to accept rental assistance, notify the program coordinator and seek legal advice. Some courts may pause eviction if assistance is in progress.
5. Where can I get legal help if I’m facing eviction?
   Contact your local legal aid society or the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service for free or low-cost advice on eviction defense.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Apply quickly for emergency rent relief to pause or prevent eviction actions.
• Know your legal rights under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
• Document everything (notices, applications, landlord communications) to protect your housing stability.

Even if eviction proceedings have started, you may still qualify for help—explore your county or local resources as soon as possible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Housing Finance Corporation – Renters Help
• Florida Department of Children and Families – Emergency Rental Assistance
• Florida Bar – Tenant Rights & Legal Info
• Find your local court: Florida Courts Directory
• FloridaLawHelp.org – Free Legal Aid

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¹ For the full text, see the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. § 83).
For emergency rental assistance: Florida Housing Finance Corporation.
Tribunal information: Florida County Courts official website.
Florida eviction notice requirements: Section 83.56 of the Florida Statutes.

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