Lancaster County has received approximately $1.4 million in federal relief to help Lancaster County residents who are facing eviction or utility disconnection. The Emergency Rental Assistance assists households that are unable to pay rent and utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Landlords and tenants are eligible to apply.
Residents who are eligible to apply must meet the following criteria:
- You, or an adult member of your household, has had a loss of income due to COVID-19.
- You have an unpaid rent balance that began on or after March 1, 2020.
- Must not duplicate other federal, state, or local assistance.
- Your household income restrictions (before March 1, 2020) apply.
- These funds are available only to those who live outside the Lincoln city limits. The City of Lincoln will have their own application process.
The following assistance is available:
- Rent Assistance: Up to 12 months of rent assistance dating back to March 13, 2020.
- Utility Assistance: Electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash removal and energy costs, such as fuel oil.
Please note that telecommunication services (telephone, cable, Internet) delivered to the rental dwelling are not considered to be utilities.
Lancaster County Commissioner Sean Flowerday stated, “I know rent and utility assistance is needed across the county. This includes rural Lancaster County. We have approximately $1.2 million in treasury funds devoted to our towns and villages outside of the city limits. If you are struggling because of the pandemic, we have resources to help you. We have a county employee, as well as, Community Action Partnership who are devoted to helping you get the assistance you need. Reach out to us on the number provided today or apply through the website. Covid has impacted so many in our county, please don’t hesitate to ask for help.”
Additional information and the application can be found here: The updated and streamlined process includes an online application form for tenants and landlords and a “one-call” dedicated number at 402-413-2085 for assistance. More information and the application forms are available at both //lincoln.ne.gov/rent and the Resident Resource page at COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov or https://www.lancaster.ne.gov/1195/Rental-Assistance