Summer Moves: How to Access Emergency Rental Assistance

Relocating during summer is common in the United States. Families plan moves while children are out of school, leases often expire in June or July, and warmer weather makes transitions easier. Yet for many renters, the financial burden of moving season is overwhelming.

Between rent increases, security deposits, utility connection fees, and moving costs, summer relocation can quickly push a household into crisis. For renters already living paycheck to paycheck, this period is particularly precarious. Fortunately, emergency rental assistance (ERA) programs exist to bridge the gap, prevent eviction, and provide a path toward housing stability.

Understanding Emergency Rental Assistance

Emergency Rental Assistance programs are designed to support households facing housing instability due to financial hardship. These programs may cover past-due rent, upcoming rent, utilities, or certain relocation costs. Initially funded during the COVID-19 pandemic, ERA programs remain active in many states and communities, often supported by federal, state, or nonprofit partnerships.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, billions of dollars have been distributed since 2021, reaching millions of families struggling to stay in their homes (U.S. Treasury, 2024). While funding levels differ across regions, most states continue to operate some form of assistance for renters in crisis.

Why Summer Creates Added Pressure

The summer months represent the busiest moving season nationwide. Leases frequently end in May or June, landlords may push rent increases at renewal, and demand for moving services spikes, which drives up costs. Eviction filings also rise during this period, partly because property owners use the transition season to fill units quickly.

For families already behind on payments, summer relocation can escalate financial challenges. Applying for assistance before eviction proceedings begin can make the difference between stability and homelessness. This is why May and June are particularly critical months for tenants to explore ERA programs.

Where to Seek Assistance

The first step in securing help is identifying available programs. State housing agencies and local governments are primary sources, and most operate dedicated rental assistance portals where applications can be submitted online. In addition, public housing authorities often manage rental support funds or can direct applicants to appropriate partners. Nonprofit organizations, including community action agencies, charities, and faith-based groups, are also key distributors of aid.

These organizations may move more quickly than government agencies and can sometimes cover unique costs such as moving deposits. Finally, community hotlines such as 211 remain invaluable resources, offering live operators who can provide up-to-date guidance on active programs in your area (United Way, 2023).

Documentation and Preparation

Applicants improve their chances of approval when they prepare documentation in advance. Most programs require proof of hardship, such as evidence of reduced work hours, unemployment, or medical bills. Applicants should also be ready to provide a copy of their lease or rental agreement, identification, and income verification such as pay stubs or benefit statements.

If eviction notices or past-due rent statements have been issued, these documents strengthen the urgency of an application. Even utility bills may be required if the program includes coverage of arrears. Compiling these records before submitting an application helps prevent delays, which is especially important during the competitive summer season.

What Assistance Typically Covers

While programs vary by location, most rental assistance falls into several broad categories:

• Rent arrears: Past-due rent owed to landlords.
• Forward rent payments: One or more upcoming months of rent.
• Utility bills and arrears: Electricity, gas, water, and other basic services.
• Move-in costs: Security deposits, first month’s rent, or utility connection fees.

It is important to note that programs rarely cover non-essential costs such as furniture, late fees, or full-service moving expenses. Tenants should plan accordingly and inquire about program limits before committing to new leases or moving arrangements.

Strategies for a Successful Application

Acting quickly is the single most important factor in securing help. Because many ERA funds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, applying before eviction proceedings or relocation deadlines increases the likelihood of success. Applicants should consider submitting applications to multiple programs, as funding streams often complement each other.

Communication with landlords is also essential. In many jurisdictions, assistance is paid directly to property owners, and landlord cooperation is required for disbursement. Clear communication can prevent unnecessary delays or conflicts. Finally, applicants should monitor program deadlines closely, as some state or county portals close temporarily once allocations are exhausted.

Special Considerations for Movers

For tenants relocating rather than remaining in their current residence, certain programs extend to move-in support. This may include assistance with security deposits, first month’s rent, or basic utility deposits. Nonprofit organizations in particular are more likely to provide these forms of help, and families with children or individuals leaving unsafe housing situations are often prioritized.

Tenants transitioning to subsidized housing, such as Section 8 voucher units, may also receive help with deposits through their housing authority. Because moving expenses beyond rent and utilities are seldom covered, renters should budget carefully and explore community-based resources such as furniture banks or volunteer moving assistance programs.

Preparing Before the Peak Season

The best way to navigate relocation season is to begin preparations well before summer. Tenants should start by researching the programs available in their state and county, noting eligibility requirements and deadlines. Gathering required documents early prevents delays once applications open.

Reaching out to nonprofits or faith-based groups can uncover additional resources, including one-time grants for move-in costs. Finally, open communication with current landlords can sometimes lead to flexible payment arrangements that buy time while applications are pending.

Reliable Sources for Assistance

For renters unsure where to begin, several national resources can help. The U.S. Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program site provides details about federal funding and links to state administrators (U.S. Treasury, 2024). USA.gov offers a dedicated emergency rent help portal that connects users to programs in their local areas (USA.gov, 2024).

AffordableHousingHub.org maintains state-by-state guides to active rental assistance initiatives, including eligibility requirements and contact details (Affordable Housing Hub, 2024). Together, these resources form a strong starting point for anyone seeking housing stability during relocation season.

Conclusion

Summer moves bring opportunity, but for many renters they also bring overwhelming financial risk. Emergency rental assistance can make the difference between a successful transition and housing instability. By understanding the types of aid available, preparing documentation in advance, applying early, and leveraging both government and nonprofit resources, tenants can protect their housing security during this high-pressure season. With programs still active across the country, now is the time to act—before moving trucks fill the streets and the window for timely assistance begins to close.

References

1. Emergency Rental Assistance Program. (U.S. Department of the Treasury)
2. 211 Emergency Assistance Programs. (United Way)
3. Emergency Rental Assistance Resources. (Affordable Housing Hub)