What Should I Expect?
When you contact Iowa Rental Help by phone, email or text, you will receive contact information for the agency that administers the Iowa Rental Help program in your area. You can also contact your local agency directly.
1) During an initial phone consultation, a case manager at your local agency will ask a few questions that will help determine your eligibility. If the case manager determines that you may be eligible, he or she will schedule an in-person consultation.
NOTE: Only homeless Iowans or Iowa renters or homeowners who are at imminent risk of homelessness may qualify for Iowa Rental Help.
2) Please have the following materials on hand for your in-person meeting with your local case manager:
- a. Copy of your driver’s license or other legal identification
b. Proof of income (pay stub, bank statement, etc.)
c. Proof of unemployment (letter of termination from employer, proof of unemployment benefits, etc.)
d. Eviction notice (if renting)
e. Signed copy of your current lease (if renting)
f. Notice of foreclosure (if you currently own a home)
g. Utility disconnection notice (if applicable)
3) Your case manager will talk with you about your situation and determine whether you may participate in the Iowa Rental Help program.
NOTE: Iowa Rental Help is designed to provide short-term assistance for Iowans. Qualified Iowans must show that they can become self-sufficient within a matter of months. Qualified Iowans must also have no other resources for assistance or may not currently receive any other federal rent subsidy such as Section 8. Iowa Rental Help intends to assist the neediest Iowans first.
4) If your case manager determines that you are eligible for Iowa Rental Help, he/she will work with your landlord, utility company, etc. to pay your past due and/or upcoming rent or bills. YOU WILL NOT DIRECTLY RECEIVE ANY MONEY.
5) Someone from your local agency will meet with you at a minimum of every 90 days to assess your situation, confirm that you still need assistance and ensure that you are moving toward self-sufficiency.
