Eviction Prevention Funds for Massachusetts Renters

Worried about an eviction in Massachusetts? You’re not alone—many renters face challenges paying rent due to job loss, illness, or emergency expenses. Fortunately, the Commonwealth offers various eviction prevention funds and rental assistance programs designed to keep tenants safely housed. This guide walks you through how to access these resources, what to expect, and where to find help, using up-to-date information and official resources.

Understanding Eviction Prevention in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law provides important protections and resources for renters who are struggling to pay rent. Eviction prevention funds are state-funded or federally supported resources that help tenants avoid eviction due to financial hardship. These programs often offer emergency rent payments, legal support, or help negotiating with your landlord.

Key Eviction Prevention Programs

• Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT): RAFT is the primary eviction prevention program in Massachusetts, providing funds for eligible renters facing housing crisis. Learn more about RAFT and how to apply.
• Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP): (Note: As of 2024, most COVID-era emergency rental programs have ended, but some local aid may remain for emergencies. Check current state emergency housing resources here.)
• Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP): Certain local agencies administer funds for those at imminent risk of homelessness. See HPP info from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

Eligibility for Rental Assistance

Not all renters qualify for every program. To be eligible for RAFT or similar assistance, you generally must:

• Be at risk of losing your current housing due to nonpayment of rent or other emergency
• Have an income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), or 60% for households at risk of domestic violence
• Demonstrate a financial hardship caused by circumstances beyond your control (such as job loss, illness, or unanticipated expenses)

You do not need to have received a formal eviction notice to apply for help—many renters qualify if they anticipate difficulty paying next month’s rent or utilities.

Official Forms You May Need

• RAFT Application Form – Apply for RAFT here (Mass.gov)
  When and how to use: Use this form to apply directly for RAFT rental assistance. For example, if you receive a Notice to Quit or cannot pay your next rent, start a RAFT application online or by calling your local Regional Administering Agency.
• Tenant's Answer to Complaint for Summary Process (Eviction) (Form 5) – Download and file Form 5 (Official Massachusetts Court Guidance)
  When and how to use: If your landlord already started an eviction case (“summary process”), you must submit a written answer using Form 5. This lets you state your case and, if you’ve applied for RAFT, request the court delay the process.
• Request for Continuance (Small Claims and Summary Process—Request for Continuance)
  When and how to use: If you need more time (for example, you’re waiting for RAFT approval), file this form with the court clerk before your hearing. It asks the court to reschedule your hearing to allow rental aid processing.

The Tribunal Handling Evictions in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, eviction cases are handled by the Housing Court Department of the Trial Court. This is where landlords file summary process (eviction) actions and where tenants can respond or present defenses.

How to Apply for Eviction Prevention Funds: Step-by-Step

If you’re at risk of eviction, taking prompt and organized action is key. Here’s a straightforward process for most renters:

• Gather recent income statements, lease/rental agreement, and any documentation showing financial hardship like job loss or medical bills.
• Start a RAFT application online or contact your local Regional Administering Agency.
• If you receive a summary process summons (court eviction papers), use the Tenant's Answer (Form 5) to notify the court about your rental assistance application.
• Communicate early with your landlord—let them know you’ve applied for assistance and provide updates as you get them.
• If your hearing date is near but aid is still pending, file a Request for Continuance to ask for more time.

Massachusetts law requires that landlords cannot proceed with certain types of evictions if the tenant has a pending rental assistance application. See Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 239, Section 1: Eviction Procedures for more details.^[1]

FAQ: Eviction Prevention and Assistance in Massachusetts

1. How long does it take to get RAFT rental assistance?
   Processing times vary by region and case volume. On average, expect notification within 5–15 business days after submitting a complete application, but delays may occur during high demand.
2. Can a landlord evict me if I have a pending RAFT application?
   Massachusetts law requires eviction proceedings to pause while a timely RAFT (or similar rental assistance) application is under review, as long as the tenant informs the court and landlord.
3. What if my rental assistance is denied?
   If your application is denied, you can appeal or seek legal help. Community legal aid organizations often offer free advice for time-sensitive cases.
4. Do I need a lawyer to fight eviction or apply for funds?
   No, though legal aid can help. Many resources and forms are designed for renters to use independently, and free help is often available from advocacy groups or court self-help centers.
5. What types of expenses can eviction prevention funds cover?
   Programs like RAFT typically help with back rent, utility arrears, and move-in costs like first/last month’s rent or security deposit.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Renters

• Massachusetts offers emergency rental assistance (like RAFT) to help tenants avoid eviction.
• Promptly applying and communicating with your landlord or the court improves your chances of staying housed.
• Filing the correct forms and requesting hearings to pause eviction is your right—get help if needed!

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• RAFT Emergency Rental Assistance Main Page (Mass.gov)
• Massachusetts Housing Court: Tenant Information and Calendar
• MassLegalHelp: Free Legal Guides for Renters
• Regional Administering Agencies for RAFT by County
• MA Renter Rights and Responsibilities Summary (Mass.gov)

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1. For official eviction procedures in Massachusetts, see Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 239, Section 1
2. RAFT Program: Official RAFT Information (Mass.gov)
3. Tenant Answers and Summary Process Forms: Court Guidance and Forms for Evictions
4. Housing Court Details: Massachusetts Housing Court

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