Eviction Prevention Funding Options for Oregon Renters

Oregon tenants facing the risk of eviction have several resources and funds available to help them stay in their homes. Eviction prevention funds can provide crucial support when you’re struggling to pay rent, experiencing an unexpected hardship, or have received a termination notice. This guide explains which resources exist, how to access official funding, and what steps to take—all backed by current Oregon laws and agencies.

Understanding Eviction Prevention Funds in Oregon

Eviction prevention funds are programs that help renters cover overdue rent and avoid being evicted. These may include emergency rental assistance, short-term grants, or other supports. These programs are managed by the state, local agencies, or nonprofit organizations with oversight from government sources.

Key Rental Assistance Programs in Oregon

• Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP): Provides payments to landlords on behalf of tenants who are behind on rent due to financial hardship. For current program status, eligibility, and applications, visit the Oregon Housing and Community Services OERAP page.
• Local Community Action Agencies: Agencies statewide administer funding and help tenants apply. Locate your nearest agency using the Oregon Community Action Partnership directory.
• 211info: Call 2-1-1 or visit 211info.org for up-to-date information on rental assistance resources in your area.

These programs are designed to stop an eviction due to nonpayment and to help renters recover from temporary setbacks.

How Oregon’s Eviction Prevention Funds Work

If you’re behind on rent or have received a notice of termination for nonpayment, it’s important to act quickly. In Oregon, applying for rental help can pause the eviction process if your landlord has started an eviction case for unpaid rent.

• If you apply for emergency rental assistance and notify your landlord in writing, you have protections against eviction for nonpayment while your application is pending¹.
• Be sure to keep proof of your application and all communications with your landlord.

Official Forms: Oregon’s Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance

• Form Name: Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance
• How to Use: If you apply for emergency rent help, complete this form and deliver it to your landlord to activate your temporary eviction protections.
• Example: If you lost work and fell behind on rent in May, applying to OERAP and serving this notice to your landlord can halt a nonpayment eviction for up to 60 days, as long as you applied before or within 60 days of receiving a termination notice.
• Download the official Notice of Application for Rental Assistance (PDF)

Important Steps to Prevent Eviction in Oregon

• Apply for rental assistance as soon as possible if you’re at risk of missing rent.
• Complete and deliver the Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance form to your landlord—email or hand delivery are both valid.
• Keep all records, including emails, application confirmations, and landlord responses.
• If you receive a court summons, respond promptly using the instructions provided, or attend your first appearance as required.

Your Legal Rights and Protections

Oregon law offers renters important protections during the rental assistance application process:

• Eviction Moratorium Protections: If you’ve submitted the Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance, your landlord cannot proceed with eviction for nonpayment while your application is pending (up to 60 days statewide; some counties may be longer).
• Landlords must comply with the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90), which sets out your rights in the rental process.

If your landlord begins eviction in court during your protection period, tell the judge about your application and provide any documentation.

Where are Evictions Heard in Oregon?

All residential tenancy cases, including nonpayment evictions, are handled by the Oregon Judicial Department at the county Circuit Courts. The courts oversee landlord-tenant disputes and enforce Oregon’s housing laws.

FAQ: Eviction Prevention Funds in Oregon

1. How do I apply for eviction prevention or rental assistance funds in Oregon?
   Contact your local Community Action Agency, call 2-1-1, or visit the OERAP page to start your application online or request paper forms.
2. Will the eviction process pause if I apply for rental assistance?
   Yes, after you deliver the Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance to your landlord, you are protected from nonpayment eviction while your application is under review (for up to 60 days statewide).
3. What if my landlord keeps moving forward with eviction?
   You should show the court your application receipt and copy of the notice given to your landlord. Let the judge know you are protected by Oregon law during your pending application period.
4. Are there income limits for rental assistance?
   Most programs require that your household income is below 80% of the area median income (AMI). The exact limits vary by location and household size. Check with your local agency or review Oregon’s official income limits.
5. Is rental assistance taxable or affect my immigration status?
   No, rental assistance does not count as taxable income and does not directly affect immigration status. For legal advice, consult a qualified attorney or advocacy service.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters Seeking Eviction Prevention

• Apply for rental assistance immediately if you’re falling behind on rent to protect yourself from eviction.
• Deliver the Notice of Application for Emergency Rental Assistance form to your landlord to benefit from Oregon’s eviction pause.
• Access assistance and up-to-date information via Oregon Housing and Community Services or your local Community Action Agency.

Staying informed and proactive can help prevent displacement and provide time to recover financially.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance (OERAP) – Official program page, latest status, and application.
• Oregon Community Action Agencies – Locate help and start your application locally.
• Oregon Judicial Department – Circuit Courts – Information about eviction proceedings and court locations.
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90) – Full text of state tenancy laws.
• Oregon Law Help – Free legal guidance and tenant advocacy resources.
• 211info – Housing, legal, and emergency services information for all Oregonians.

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1. See Senate Bill 891 – Emergency Rental Assistance Protections and Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90) for legal rights regarding rental assistance and eviction stays.
2. Official eviction cases and hearings are handled by the Oregon Judicial Department Circuit Courts.
3. Income limits, forms, and eviction prevention details are updated by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).

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