CHARLESTON, S.C. - Life as we know it changed six months ago when a global pandemic entered our world. Our economy, financial stability, healthcare, and livelihoods are still reeling from the effect of COVID-19. Hoping to ease some strain and provide emergency relief to renters, SC Thrive is offering the COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program.
Here is the information you need to know about this program:
Who is eligible for this program?
- The applicant must be a South Carolina resident with proof of ID
- The address on the applicant’s ID must match the address on the lease
- The household income at the time of application must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county in which they reside
- Employment or income must have been impacted by COVID-19 beginning March 10, 2020 or later
- Applicants must be PAST DUE on rent
- The rent assistance payment must bring the rental balance current
- The applicant cannot currently receive any subsidized rental assistance
- The applicant cannot be a current recipient of the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation ($600 additional weekly benefits)
What supporting documentation do I need when applying?
- Gather these materials together before you start the process:
- An active lease agreement—this may include an agreement to rent month to month—however, it must clearly be stated on the lease.
- Landlord Affidavit & W-9 IRS Form. Click here to download Landlord Affidavit and W-9 Form
- Proof of your decrease in income/employment due to COVID-19
Documents may include:
- Pay Stubs
- Bank statements from the previous 90 days—if self-employed
- Unemployment statement showing you are not approved for the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation ($600 additional weekly benefits)
- TANF statement
- Social Security check stubs or proof of deposit
- Pension statement
- Veterans benefit statement
- Proof of alimony
- Proof of child support
- Workman’s compensation check stubs
- Military pay stubs
What if I don’t have these documents?
There are alternative documents that you can submit if you do not have some listed above. For example, if you do not have a South Carolina ID with your current address, you can submit two utility bills with your name and the address on your lease. If you don’t have a bank account or access to your pay stubs, you can complete and submit a Statement of Income. The Statement of Income is available for self-employed applicants or applicants with employers who pay them in cash. If you have more questions about document alternatives, you can email SC Thrive at [email protected].
How long does it take to process the application?
After submission, your application could take up to 30 days to process. Once your application has been approved, payment will be sent directly to the property owner or management companies.
How do I apply?
There are three ways to submit your Rental Assistance Program Application.
- The best way is to electronically fill out and submit your application through THRIVE HUB. This is the easiest option.
- Submit your application via encrypted email at [email protected].
- Before you send your application, you need to email this address so they can send you a secure email.
- Fax your application and supporting documents at 833.520.4785.
You can apply using a mobile phone, tablet, or computer with the Google Chrome browser. Be sure to fill in all required fields, upload all your supporting documents, and digitally sign your application before submission.
What will happen if I have a roommate?
SC Thrive can only accept one application per active lease. If you are living with a roommate and both of you have separate leases, then each of you can apply.
What if I am denied?
If you are denied, SC Thrive encourages you to re-apply. You may be eligible even if you were initially denied. SC Thrive recognizes that situations can change, so you can apply as many times as you need.
Do you need the application in Spanish (Que pasa Si habla Espanol)?
Click here to access the application in Spanish.
What if I have received an eviction notice?
If you have received an eviction notice, or if you received an eviction notice while waiting for your application to process, you are still potentially eligible for assistance. We have worked with tenants, magistrates, and landlords who are in the eviction process.
Do you…
- Need a computer to apply for the COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program?
- Need to get an email address?
- Need fax services to submit your application?
- Need to apply for jobs while you await assistance with your bills?
- Need to update your resume?
Then please…
Consider utilizing Charleston County Public Libraries to assist you with these steps. Visit the Charleston County Public Library website by clicking here to learn about library locations currently open for in-person services and our expanded hours of operation. Note that the Dorchester Road Regional Branch Library in North Charleston, SC currently has fax self-services available via FaxScan24. Call the branch at 552-6466 to find out about fax rates.
With a little bit of practice and self-patience, you will be ready to take on the next steps in your future career. If you would like more information about how to apply for jobs online, assistance in finding resources, tips on how to get the job-hunting process started or more, please reach out to us at CCPL by email, chat, or text. Remember, you are not alone.