COVID-19 Relief Law - NJ Renter Relief

NJ residential renters suffering financial hardships related to the coronavirus pandemic may soon see relief, as the NJ Senate passed bill ("S-2333") Monday that would set aside 100 Million USD for renters.

S-2333's relief fund would operate under the New Jersey Homeless Prevention Program ("NJHPP"). Renters apply directly to NJ State for assistance. If approved for participation in the program, the State would directly pay the landlord.

The program is subject to income limits, similar to the IRS Stimulus Check program. To qualify, income cannot exceed 120% of area median income. Those figures, set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, vary by county, e.g., in Bergen County, area median family income is $104,200.

The bill, S-2333,  passed with no dissenting votes during the Senate's first voting session and will be decided by a vote the General Assembly, date to be announced.