Eviction Prevention Funds for Renters in Maryland

If you're renting in Maryland and facing possible eviction, it's important to know about the eviction prevention funds and support options available to you. Maryland offers several programs to help tenants avoid losing their homes due to temporary financial hardship. This guide explains how these funds work, how to apply, and what legal rights you have as a renter under current Maryland law.

What Are Eviction Prevention Funds?

Eviction prevention funds are government-backed financial assistance programs created to help renters pay overdue rent and avoid eviction. In Maryland, these funds often come from city, county, or state resources and are distributed through local agencies.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility usually depends on factors such as income, proof of hardship (like job loss or medical emergency), and the reason for being behind on rent. Typically, applicants must:

• Be a renter in Maryland with a current residential lease
• Owe rent or have received a formal eviction notice
• Meet household income limits set by the program

Some programs also prioritize families with children, seniors, or people with disabilities.

How to Apply for Maryland Eviction Prevention Funds

Maryland offers statewide and local Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAPs) that distribute federal and state money to tenants in need. These programs help renters catch up on missed payments and—sometimes—pay for utilities.

• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Eviction Prevention – Statewide portal and program updates
• List of Local Rental Assistance & Eviction Prevention Programs – Find your county or city program

To apply:

• Gather your lease, proof of income, and any eviction notice you've received
• Visit your local rental assistance page for application forms and instructions
• Submit the application with all required documents. Processing times and required forms vary by county.

Important Official Forms for Renters

• Failure to Pay Rent - Complaint Form (DC-CV-082)
  What it is: This is the form landlords file with the local District Court to start eviction proceedings due to unpaid rent.
  Renter use: If you receive a copy, it's your notice that your landlord has begun an eviction case. Respond promptly, seek assistance, and prepare proof of payments/assistance applied for.
  Download Failure to Pay Rent Complaint Form
• Motion to Stay Eviction (Request for Delay of Eviction) (DC-CV-116)
  What it is: This form asks the court to delay (stay) your scheduled eviction.
  Renter use: If you have recently applied for or received rental assistance, you may file this form to request more time in your home while aid is processed.
  Download Motion to Stay Eviction Form

Both forms are submitted to your local Maryland District Court.

Your Rights During the Eviction Process

The Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401 outlines the process landlords must follow to evict a tenant for unpaid rent. If you catch up on your rent before judgment or receive assistance in time, you may be able to stop the eviction.

• Your landlord must file a court case—self-eviction or "lockouts" without court order are illegal
• You have the right to a court hearing and to present evidence (such as proof of rental assistance applications)
• Even after a judgment, you may file a Motion to Stay Eviction if you can show that funds are pending

Official Board or Tribunal for Tenant Disputes

In Maryland, the Maryland District Court hears residential eviction cases and landlord-tenant disputes. For additional dispute resolution or mediation, some counties have local tenant-landlord commissions.

FAQ: Maryland Eviction Prevention and Assistance

1. Can I apply for eviction prevention funds after receiving a court eviction notice?
   Yes. You can apply for assistance even after a court case has started. Bring documentation of your application or approval to court and consider filing a Motion to Stay Eviction if necessary.
2. What should I do if my application for assistance is still pending and my eviction court date is approaching?
   Notify the court at your hearing and bring any proof of your application. You can also file the Motion to Stay Eviction form to request more time while your rental aid is processed.
3. Are eviction prevention funds available for utility bills?
   Some Maryland ERAPs cover utility arrears as well as rent. Check with your local program to confirm which expenses are eligible.
4. Do I need a lawyer to respond to an eviction case?
   You are not required to have a lawyer, but free legal aid is available and is strongly recommended to help protect your rights.
5. If I pay off the owed rent with assistance funds, can my landlord still evict me?
   If you pay all rent due (including court-awarded costs) before eviction, the process is usually halted. Filing the correct paperwork with the court ensures you stay protected.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Eviction prevention funds are available statewide and locally—apply as soon as possible if you fall behind on rent.
• Respond promptly to eviction notices and court papers, and always keep documentation of any assistance applications.
• Use official forms like the Motion to Stay Eviction to request more time if you have funds pending.

Staying informed and acting quickly can help you stay in your home—even if you're already in the eviction process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Eviction Prevention – Official statewide portal for rent assistance
• Maryland District Court – Handles eviction cases and form filings
• Maryland Courts Legal Help: Landlord-Tenant – Free guides and legal aid resources
• For local legal assistance, contact Maryland Legal Aid or search the People's Law Library of Maryland

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1. See Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401: Tenant-Landlord Law – Eviction Actions
2. Access forms and guidance from the Maryland Courts Official Landlord-Tenant Legal Help Page
3. Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Eviction Prevention Portal

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