DCBA and The Center by Lendistry Announce Launch Date for Rent Relief Program Applications and Increase to $68 Million in Grant Funding

LOS ANGELES, December 4, 2023 (Newswire.com) - The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) will begin accepting applications for the Los Angeles County Rent Relief Program on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 9:00 AM PST. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, January 12, 2024, at 11:59 PM PST.  Spearheaded by the LA County Board of Supervisors and administered by The Center by Lendistry, the program will now distribute over $68 million in financial support to qualified landlords adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase of $22 million in grant funding. Those interested in applying for the LA County Rent Relief Program can review the eligibility requirements, register to receive a link to the application when it opens, and access the application directly when it is available by visiting the portal at lacountyrentrelief.com.

The Rent Relief Program will provide up to $30,000 per rental unit to landlords for past due rent and eligible expenses dating from April 1, 2022, to the present. The Program aims to curb tenant evictions and ensure the continued provision of housing. 

To ensure accessibility and ease throughout the application process, the application and free in-language technical assistance will be available in multiple languages. Applicants will be able to access assistance daily between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. PST starting Tuesday, December 12.

DCBA has implemented a prioritized review process for the upcoming LA County Rent Relief Program applications. Applications submitted will be systematically evaluated, with priority given to those demonstrating the most substantial financial distress, those catering to the most vulnerable tenants, and properties located in areas of highest need, as identified by the LA County Equity Explorer Tool. Early submissions are strongly encouraged. Submission of a completed application does not guarantee funding. 

"Landlords provide many of the County's housing options, but the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have left plenty in a precarious financial position,” said DCBA Director Rafael Carbajal. “Through the LA County Rent Relief program, DCBA seeks to further invigorate recovery efforts, alleviate economic hardships faced by landlords, and maintain the availability of safe, affordable places to live in Los Angeles County." 

“This Program is arriving at a critical time, underscoring the County’s commitment to property owners and tenants during this period of economic recovery. Our collaboration with the County reflects our dedication to supporting the unsung heroes of our housing market—small, local landlords,” said Tunua Thrash-Ntuk, President & CEO of The Center by Lendistry. 

Since 1975, the County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) has been the local consumer protection agency serving County consumers, tenants, homeowners, immigrants, and workers. DCBA provides a wide range of services that aim to foster a fair and dynamic marketplace and enhance the economic wellbeing of our communities. This includes investigating consumer fraud complaints, enforcing the County’s minimum wage, tenant and worker protections, and providing access to justice programs. More information can be found at dcba.lacounty.gov or by calling (800) 593-8222.

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