#NY updates rent relief program after critics slam slow process

ALBANY — The state released a new application process for tenants and landlords seeking federal rental assistance on Monday — one day after Sen. Chuck Schumer slammed the Cuomo administration for slow-rolling payments to individuals at risk of evictions. 

The submission process — slated to be updated on the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s website by Tuesday, July 27 — is expected to speed up the administration of roughly $2.7 million in state and federal funding to up to 200,000 households, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo. 

“The COVID pandemic has taken a tremendous toll on New Yorkers all across the State, and they need rental assistance now,” said Cuomo in a statement. 

“The $2.7 billion Rental Assistance Program is already providing funding to some of our most vulnerable residents who were prioritized during the first 30 days of the application process, and now we must focus on delivering funds to the remaining applicants.”

The state will also beef up its employee ranks to around 1,350 employees to help administer the dollars.

Although open to applicants since June 1, just $130,000 has been paid out to date to qualified individuals. 

It’s drawn ire from critics like Schumer, who have argued the further stalling of the program could make New Yorkers who owe back payments on rent or utilities vulnerable once the state’s coronavirus eviction moratorium ends on August 31.

But the Senate majority leader praised the move Monday on Twitter, tweeting, “I’m glad NY is bringing in additional resources, personnel, urgency to address this…I fought to deliver $2.3B in tenant relief so hard hit NYers could pay their rent, utilities, avoid the threat of eviction or overwhelming debt…It’s critical the money gets into their hands ASAP.”

Qualified tenants may receive a maximum of 12 months-worth in back rental and utility payments and up to three months in prospective rental dollars. 

Landlords must also waive late fees on rent that’s past due, agree to not increase monthly rent and in the majority of cases, agree not to begin eviction proceedings for up to one year.