RICHMOND, Va. -- There is now a new way for tenants and landlords to apply for millions of dollars still available as part of the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program.
A change, made in the past few weeks, will expedite help to the overwhelming number of Virginians who need assistance paying rent.
There’s also a second change.
Because of a new law passed by the Virginia General Assembly, landlords are now required to apply to the rent relief program on behalf of their tenants.
But, legal aid experts encourage tenants to apply even if their landlord is doing it.
Attorney Palmer Heenan said there is a brand new process for applying.
Previously everyone was directed to ACTS RVA to apply, but not anymore.
A new online portal is active and all applications will be processed through one central location.
"Approved rent and mortgage payments will go directly to landlords and money is still available," Heenan said. “There are tens of millions of dollars that will go to landlords whose tenants are unable to pay rent right now. So, it’s not as if there is a shortage of money available. At this point, what we are asking is for landlords and tenants to work together."
To apply by phone, call 703-962-1884. To submit your application online through the portal, use this link.
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