Important Resources to Prevent Eviction
Getting evicted? Worried you might be soon?
To learn more about your rights if you are being evicted, come to a live virtual information session with a PTLA attorney every Tuesday at 9 a.m.
Having trouble paying rent?
Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance! Learn more about the Maine State Housing Authority Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
Posted and up-to-date on 8/27/2021
Is there a nationwide eviction ban?
No. On August 26th, 2021 the United States Supreme Court struck down the new CDC Eviction Moratorium. This means there is not any kind of ban on evictions.
Call Pine Tree Legal Assistance for help with any questions or if your landlord is trying to evict you.
I can't pay my rent. Where can I get help?
You should apply for assistance through Maine State Housing’s program. The Maine Housing Emergency Rental Assistance program is available in every county to tenants who have had a financial hardship since March 2020. This could be a job loss, a medical issue, a family break up, or any other issue that has put a strain on your finances. Learn more about the Rental Assistance program.
If you do not qualify for Emergency Rental Assistance, you should contact your local General Assistance office. If you have children, you should apply for DHHS Emergency Assistance. If you are a veteran or have a veteran in your household, reach out to Preble Street Veterans Assistance.
I was told I wasn't eligible for the rental assistance program before August 2021. Should I reapply?
Yes. On August 2nd, 2021 the eligibility rules changed. Your financial hardship no longer needs to be related to COVID-19. It just has to have happened during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you think this changes your eligibility, you should reapply.
I was told I wasn't eligible for more assistance because I got 15 months of assistance. Should I reapply?
Yes. Before August 2nd, eligible tenants could get up to 15 months of assistance. That has been increased to 18 months. Tenants who got their 15 months before are now eligible for an additional 3 months. You should reapply.