Polk County Eviction Prevention Program Is Open

Polk’s Eviction Prevention Program is Open

Bartow, Fla. (Feb. 17, 2021) — Polk County’s COVID-19 Eviction Prevention Program opened for applications this morning to assist tenants who are unable to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program, using federally approved funds, assists Polk’s most vulnerable tenants who are in imminent danger of eviction and provides property owners with an alternative to eviction.

The program will provide up to $7,000 in past due rent that will be paid directly to the landlord. The landlord will initiate the application process; however, both parties must agree to participate and meet eligibility requirements.

On Tuesday, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution accepting about $21.8 million from the federal government’s approved Emergency Rental Assistance Program. Polk’s share, which was received Jan. 19, is part of a $25 billion program to assist households that are unable to pay rent and utilities due to the pandemic. The funds are provided directly to the states, U.S. territories, local governments and Indian tribes.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet certain requirements. Those requirements, along with the application portal, can be found online at https://link.edgepilot.com/s/5498de8d/3lqfKxbeX0qr8NuKm_NXpA?u=https://www.polk-county.net/covid-19/eviction-prevention-program. To apply over the telephone, call (863) 519-1000.