By Lindsey Wells

The Florida Department of Children and Families opened applications for $850 million in federal emergency rental assistance funding, Florida Realtors reported.

In addition to landlords looking to recoup lost rent money, the program assists low-income tenants and utility providers with past-due payments, according to a press release.

Applications may be submitted online through the department’s Opportunity for Utilities and Rental Assistance website at http://ourflorida.com. Additional support, tools and frequently asked questions are also available on the website.

If a tenant applies and qualifies for assistance, the money will go directly to the landlord as a direct deposit or mailed check. The program requires proof of identity and financial information. Landlords are advised to work with tenants to secure the required information.

The maximum monthly payment available per household, including rent and utilities, is $2,000, up to a total of $15,000. If a tenant owes more than $15,000, landlords can still apply to receive the maximum amount, the release said.

For more information, visit https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2021/05/now-available-landlord-applications-850m-rent-relief.