WGNO

Louisiana COVID-19 ERAP now includes utilities

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Louisiana’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program will now include help to pay past-due utility bills.

The program itself is designed to help Louisiana renters and landlords dealing with financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the expansion, the program now provides assistance for past-due rent and utility fees dating back to April 2020, as well as future rent for eligible applicants.

As of May 6, more than 13,000 renters have begun applications for the state-administered program, and $2.6 million in rental assistance has been approved.

The application period remains open and now allows for renters to submit requests for assistance in paying past-due utilities and home energy costs, which includes electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash removal and fuel oil.

Louisiana renters may be eligible for assistance from the state-administered program if they meet all of the following criteria:

Click here to learn more or to apply for the state program.