Rent Help for City of Seattle Residents
Last updated: November 28, 2023, at 11:26 a.m. PT
Originally published: March 23, 2022, at 2:07 p.m. PT
We are not currently accepting new applications for the City of Seattle Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
The Y Social Impact Center is offering rental and utility assistance to Seattle residents. Funding is available to cover up to 18 months of rental assistance, including up to 15 months of past due rent and three months of future rent. Please apply through our online portal if you meet ALL criteria listed below:
- Tenant’s residence is located within City of Seattle limits.
- Unsure if an address is within City of Seattle limits? Use this City Limit Tool to find out! Enter the address and the tool will show you.
- Household income AT or BELOW 80% area median income.
- Tenant must attest to being economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Landlord must agree to payment and sign Terms and Conditions.
- Tenant must provide the following documentation after application has been received:
- Proof of Rental or Lease Agreement
- Proof of outstanding back rent owed since March 3, 2020
- Provide self-certification for no income OR proof of income for all household members 18 years or older
- Examples include but are not limited to salary wages, social security, pension, annuities, unemployment, child support,
- Every adult over 18 with no income source must submit a Declaration of No Income Form
Once you've applied, you'll be contacted by a Y Social Impact Center staff within 2 weeks about needed documents in order to meet additional eligibility.
Additional Info
- Tenants who are undocumented are eligible for this program.
- Interpretation services available.
- Rent assistance is limited and not always guaranteed depending on funding.
What if I don’t qualify?
If you do not qualify, click here to view a list of other funding sources you may qualify for or contact the Y Social Impact Center for help navigating these resources by emailing renthelp@seattleymca.org or by texting/calling (206) 751-7130 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Please allow up to 2 business days for a team member to respond to your inquiry.