Rent Relief FAQs
Do I need to apply again if I previously received rent relief from AHFC?
Yes. Alaska Housing Rent Relief is a new program and you will need to submit a new application.
How do I find out if I’m eligible?
Find out if you will be eligible to apply for Alaska Housing Rent Relief by completing this short questionnaire. If you meet these criteria, you will be invited to pre-register.
If approved for Alaska Housing Rent Relief, will I receive the money directly?
No. Payments will be directed to landlords, property managers, and utility providers.
Can the relief be used to pay for expenses other than rent and utilities?
No. Funds can only be used for rent and utility relief.
Can the relief be used to pay rent owed and/or unpaid utility bills?
Yes. Funds will be used to first pay unpaid rent and utility bills. However, funds cannot be applied to past rent or utility bills that pre-date March 13, 2020.
If I qualify, how long will I be eligible to receive relief?
The program allows for up to 12 months of financial assistance, with the possibility of extended assistance for an additional three months. All past-due rent and utilities back to March 13, 2020 will be paid first with remaining funds available for prospective (future) assistance. Funding will be available at least through September 30, 2021.
Can all renters apply for Alaska Housing Rent Relief, regardless of where they live in Alaska?
Yes, everyone applies through the same process and program no matter where they live in Alaska.
Do I have to have been impacted by COVID-19 to be eligible for this program?
Yes. You must demonstrate negative economic or financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the coronavirus outbreak.
I’m currently employed and have income. Am I still eligible to apply?
Yes. Funds will be available to renters statewide with household incomes of no more than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). Area Median Income (AMI) is calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) using data from federal entities such as the IRS. To qualify for Alaska Housing Rent Relief:
- Your 2020 annual income for all members of your household — including all wages, tips, etc.— must have been at or below the 80% community Area Median Income (AMI); OR
- Your 2021 monthly income for all members of your household — including all wages, tips, etc. — must currently be at or below the 80% community Area Median Income (AMI).
The maximum allowable household income level varies based on your borough or census area. You can look up your area and see your maximum income level in the eligibility checker, linked below. If you qualify and meet the other eligibility requirements, you will be prompted to pre-register for Alaska Housing Rent Relief.
I receive federally funded assistance for rent and/or utilities through another program. Can I still apply for Alaska Housing Rent Relief?
We encourage you to complete the eligibility checker. If you qualify and meet the other eligibility requirements, you will be prompted to pre-register for Alaska Housing Rent Relief. During the application process you will be advised on the specifics of how any other programs might impact your eligibility for rent and/or utility relief.
If I don’t need help making rent payments, can I still apply for help with unpaid utility bills?
Yes. Alaska Housing Rent Relief can be used to help you catch up on unpaid utility bills.
I already completed the Eligibility Checker & Pre-Registration. What happens now?
When applications open on February 16th we’ll email you a personal link to provide additional details. This includes some basic information to verify your income, as well as a detailed description of how much assistance you need for rent and/or utilities (up to 12 months, and funds will be used to first pay unpaid rent and utility bills).
I own my home. Does this program provide mortgage relief, or help with utilities for homeowners?
The current program only assists renters, but there may be changes or additional programs in the future. You can sign up for email notification here. Additional resources for homeowners can be found here.
I’m a landlord. Can I apply on behalf of my tenants?
No, but you will have the opportunity to provide essential information as part of a tenant’s application. We encourage you to sign up to receive announcements about how you can help your tenants gain access to Alaska rent relief program funds. Click here to sign up for these important updates. Additional resources for landlords can be found here.
Where can I check the status of my pre-registration?
Click here to check the status of your pre-registration.
After I apply, how can I check the status of my application?
Once the application period opens and after you have submitted a completed application, you will be able to check the status of your application on this website.