Wyoming Eviction Prevention Funding: Tenant Guide 2024

If you’re renting in Wyoming and facing difficulty paying rent, you may worry about eviction or losing your home. Fortunately, there are eviction prevention funds and rental assistance programs in Wyoming designed to help tenants during a financial crisis. Understanding your rights, how to apply for help, and where to find official resources is key to keeping your housing secure.

Understanding Eviction Prevention Funds in Wyoming

Eviction prevention funds are temporary financial resources made available to tenants at risk of losing their housing due to nonpayment of rent or other emergency situations. In Wyoming, these programs often come from the state, local governments, or specialized assistance initiatives managed by community agencies.

• Primary goal: Prevent homelessness by covering overdue rent or utility bills
• Available to: Tenants experiencing hardship due to job loss, illness, or other personal crises

Main State Program: Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

The Wyoming Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) was the main state program offering rental help. Though new applications have closed as of June 2023, funds may still be available for cases submitted before that date or through local initiatives. Wyoming DFS ERAP details.

If you missed ERAP, consider contacting your local county human services office for information on alternative rental relief programs or one-time assistance funds.

Eligibility for Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance

Eligibility is generally based on income, financial hardship, and housing instability. Requirements include:

• Proof of income (usually below a set threshold, such as 80% of area median income)
• Demonstrated inability to pay rent or utilities
• Risk of homelessness or housing loss

If you receive an eviction notice, act quickly—some agencies require proof of this document to fast-track your application.

Key Terms Explained

• Eviction Notice: Official letter from your landlord stating you must leave the property if a debt is not paid or a violation resolved.
• Summons and Complaint: Legal papers filed in court at the start of a formal eviction case.

Important Forms for Wyoming Renters

Wyoming renters may need to use specific forms during the eviction process or when applying for assistance. Below are the most relevant:

• Answer to Forcible Entry and Detainer – Form: Used to respond to an official eviction complaint filed by your landlord. If you receive a Summons and Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer (the formal name for a Wyoming eviction suit), you must file this form with the circuit court to defend yourself or explain your situation.
  • When to use: Upon receiving court papers from your landlord related to eviction.
  • How to use: Complete and return to the court by the deadline listed in your summons to ensure your voice is heard in the proceedings.
  • Wyoming Circuit Court Civil Forms (see Forcible Entry and Detainer forms)
• Application for Emergency Assistance: Local county social services may provide this form if you seek rental help outside ERAP. Requirements and forms differ by county.
  • When to use: If you cannot pay rent and ERAP is closed.
  • How to use: Contact your nearest county human services office to request and submit the application, along with documentation like pay stubs, overdue bill notices, and identification.
  • Find your local county office

Always keep copies of all forms and correspondence you submit for future reference.

Where Are Tenancy Disputes Handled in Wyoming?

Eviction and rental disputes in Wyoming are primarily handled by the Wyoming Circuit Courts. If your landlord files for eviction, this is the official tribunal that will process the case.

Wyoming Tenant Rights Legislation

Your basic tenant rights are outlined in the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.^[1] This law covers security deposits, landlord obligations, eviction procedures, and your protections as a tenant.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

If you’re given an eviction notice, follow these important steps:

• Read the notice carefully to understand the reason and deadline.
• Gather documents showing your income and situation.
• Contact a county assistance office or legal aid clinic for immediate help.
• File a court response ("Answer to Forcible Entry and Detainer") promptly.
• Apply for any local or county eviction prevention funds immediately, providing a copy of the eviction notice if needed.

Fast action can increase your chance to get assistance or more time to resolve your situation.

FAQ: Wyoming Eviction Prevention and Funds

1. What eviction prevention funds are available in Wyoming now?
   While the statewide ERAP program is closed to new applicants, some local counties offer emergency rental assistance or housing support on a limited basis. Contact your local human services office for availability.
2. Can I get help if I already received an eviction notice?
   Yes. Some emergency programs give priority to renters who show proof of an eviction notice. Respond to your notice and reach out to support services immediately.
3. What if I need to challenge an eviction in court?
   You will need to file an Answer to Forcible Entry and Detainer with the Wyoming Circuit Court. Visit their official website for instructions, or seek free legal aid for guidance.
4. Where can I find Wyoming's tenant laws?
   You can read the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act for a summary of tenant and landlord legal obligations.

Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Fast action helps—respond promptly to eviction notices and seek assistance.
• Wyoming Circuit Courts handle eviction cases and require specific forms if you’re responding to a suit.
• Local human services offices provide guidance and may offer rental support even if ERAP is closed.

Keep copies of all documents and use official resources to understand and protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming County Human Services Offices – Find local emergency assistance and apply for relief funding.
• Legal Aid of Wyoming – Free legal advice and representation for renters in eviction cases.
• Wyoming Circuit Courts – File responses and get court information.
• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act – Read the current tenant law.

---

1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (WY Statutes 1-21-1201 et seq.)
2. Wyoming Department of Family Services: Emergency Rental Assistance
3. Wyoming Judicial Branch: Civil Forms
4. Wyoming Circuit Courts (Tribunal for Eviction)

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations