Rent: Frequently asked questions
Rent, Hotel and Utilities Program Overview
Who is eligible for RAMPCLT?
An "eligible household" is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals meets the following criteria:
i. Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19.
ii. Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
iii. Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI)
For hotel assistance the eligibility is as follows:
1. Guests that have lived in the hotel for 30 days or longer
2. Income qualified (a counselor will help determine this)
If a renter submitted an application in 2021 do they have to complete another application in 2022?
If an applicant was in priority 1 or 2 in 2021 they do not need to complete another application in 2022. All other applicants in 2021 will need to complete another application if they fall into the 2022 program priorities.
Does the renter have to be in arrears to be considered eligible for the program?
No. The renter can be current with their payments and request assistance going forward for up to 3 months if they are experiencing a hardship due to COVID-19 and they meet the income criteria.
How far back can arrears be paid?
March 13, 2020
Are some applications considered priority over others?
Yes. Priority levels changed beginning January 2022.
Priority #1: Applicants at 80% AMI and below with a COVID related hardship that have been served an eviction notice and have a court date within 90 days
Priority #2: Applicants at 30% AMI or below and have been unemployed for 90 days or more
How fast can the application get processed?
We have found that when applicants have all of their supporting documentation submitted the process moves more quickly. Payment timelines will depend on your eviction timeline and court expectations. We will work with you, your landlord and the Mecklenburg County courts to make a payment timeline determination.
Besides rent assistance, what else does the program offer?
The program will also fund utility (water/gas/electric) expenses, including assistance for people currently living in hotels.
What do I need to do to apply?
Each program requires specific documentation. RAMPCLT.com provides programs for renters, homeowners, long-term hotel guests, landlords and hotel managers. Select the program of interest to view the necessary documentation. A RAMP CLT representative can also work with you one-on-one to determine eligibility and assist with applying to the program.
What should I do if I cannot complete the application online?
If you have submitted an application or you need help submitting an application over the phone please contact the phone number that corresponds with your last name:
Last names A-D: (984-422-0285)
Last names E-H: (980-999-1572)
Last names I-L: (980-819-8315)
Last names M-Q: (681-207-9249)
Last names R-U: (984-422-0329)
Last names V-Z: (980-290-6772)
How do landlords factor into the program?
Landlords, with consent from their tenant, can apply on behalf of their tenant. All requirements still apply and landlords must apply for each tenant individually.
Rental payments are made directly to landlords, property managers once the application has been approved. Landlords must agree to waive late fees and agree to no longer proceed with an eviction filing for nonpayment for the approved applicant during the period of the award. Assistance can be retroactive to March 13, 2020. Should a tenant have arrears (outstanding payments) prior to March 13, 2020, The Housing Partnership will make a referral to Crisis Assistance Ministry to provide additional assistance including eviction mediation.
Where can I find eviction resources?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations offers the Dispute Settlement Program, a free mediation service with a trained, neutral third party (mediators) who will work with disputants to reach an agreement. It’s an opportunity to express concerns, interests, needs and wants in a confidential setting, and it provides an avenue for paying restitution for damages, losses or rent. Landlords and tenants interested in resolving issues outside the courtroom can call the Landlord-Tenant Line at (704) 336-5330 or visit charlottenc.gov/communityrelations for more information.
Additionally, Crisis Assistance Ministries and the NC Justice Center offer information and FAQs about tenant rights and evictions during COVID-19.
How much assistance can a renter receive?
Eligible households may receive up to 12 months of assistance, plus an additional 3 months if the grantee determines the extra months are needed to ensure housing stability and grantee funds are available.
Where will the approved payment come from?
DreamKey Partners (formerly Charlotte Mecklenburg Housing Partnership) contracted with Social Serve to provide the payments in the form of an ACH (direct deposit) or check.
How is payment for security and utility deposits distributed?
Social Serve is administering payments to landlords (security deposit) and utility companies (electric/gas) directly.
How can households in need of assistance receive help if they have not been impacted by COVID-19?
Tenants that do not have a COVID related hardship are encouraged to contact Crisis Assistance Ministries for assistance. Website: https://www.crisisassistance.org/
