Rental and Utility Assistance

How can I get help with rent? 

If you need help with back rent or your first month’s rent and security deposit, you can apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). ERAP accepts limited applications at different times of the year. Please visit erap.dhs.dc.gov for more information about the program, how to qualify, when ERAP is accepting new applications, or to check on the status of a current or pending application.

If you have trouble with the online application or want to check the status of your application, call the ERAP hotline at 202-507-6666.

How can I get help with utilities?

If you need help with bills from Pepco (electricity), Washington Gas, or DC Water:

• Apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at doee.dc.gov/liheap 
• Apply for the Utility Discount Programs (UDP) at doee.dc.gov/udp
  • If you have trouble applying for LIHEAP or UDP online, call 311 for help
• Apply for assistance from the Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL) online at gwul.org/emergency-services or by calling 202-792-2554
• Contact the Salvation Army
  • Wards 1-6: 202-332-5000
  • Wards 7-8: 202-678-9711

If you need help paying for internet or phone services:

• Apply to the USAC Lifeline Program online at lifelinesupport.org or call 800-234-9473 and ask for a mail-in application

If you are HIV-positive and need help with rent or utilities:

Call the Metropolitan Housing Access Program (MHAP) at 202-667-2681 to see what help may be available to you