Los Angeles has one of the highest rates of renter households in the country, and with that comes the risk of displacement due to rising rent prices, landlord evictions, and natural disasters. Fortunately, the city of Los Angeles has a tenant relocation assistance program to help tenants who are forced to move due to circumstances beyond their control.

What is Tenant Relocation Assistance?

Tenant relocation assistance is a program that provides financial assistance to tenants who are forced to move from their rental unit due to circumstances beyond their control. This could include landlord actions, such as eviction or the termination of tenancy, or natural disasters like earthquakes or fires.

The program provides eligible tenants with a relocation allowance to help with moving expenses, including packing and transportation costs, security deposits, and utility connection fees. The amount of assistance varies depending on the size of the household, the type of unit, and the reason for relocation.

How to Qualify for Tenant Relocation Assistance

To qualify for tenant relocation assistance in Los Angeles, tenants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:

  • The tenant must be legally evicted from their rental unit or must be required to move due to a government order or condemnation.
  • The tenant must have lived in the rental unit for at least one year.
  • The tenant must have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income.
  • The tenant must not have caused the circumstances that require them to move, such as failing to pay rent or violating the lease agreement.

Tenants who meet these requirements can apply for relocation assistance through the city’s Housing and Community Investment Department (HCIDLA) within 15 days of receiving their eviction notice or government order to vacate.

How Much Assistance Can You Receive?

The amount of tenant relocation assistance varies depending on the size of the household, the type of unit, and the reason for relocation. In Los Angeles, the minimum amount of relocation assistance is $7,000 per household, while the maximum is $19,500 per household. The amount of assistance is based on a formula that takes into account the household size and the rental unit type.

Conclusion

Tenant relocation assistance is a valuable program for renters in Los Angeles who are facing displacement due to circumstances beyond their control. If you are a tenant who is being evicted or required to move due to a government order or condemnation, you may be eligible for financial assistance through this program. To learn more about tenant relocation assistance in Los Angeles, contact the Housing and Community Investment Department or visit their website for more information.