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Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

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EAP Application (CLOSED): WE HAVE REACHED CAPACITY PLEASE CONTINUE TO MONITOR OUR WEBSITE FOR UPDATES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE

Updated Process:

We appreciate your continued interest in our assistance program.  Please be advised that our assistance program is currently on hold as we review our budget and assess future capacity. We encourage residents to check our website periodically for updates.

At this time, we will not be opening the portal link to accept applications for our waitlist in September, as we are actively working through an extensive list of current applicants.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Application process (can take 3-4 weeks): 

  1. When open, visit the HACC website forms page , to be added to the waitlist.
    • Limited slots are available.
  2. If selected, you will be contacted, regarding the status of your application, within the month of application.
    • Attempted contact by phone and email 
  3. Await feedback to determine preliminary approval based on your application.
  4. If approved to move forward, you will receive an email to submit supporting documents that verify information submitted on the application.
    • Verify household information
    • Sign and submit a privacy release of information statement 
    • Must provide income details (Zero income documentation is required as well)
    • Payee details
    • Submit additional required document (see list below)
  5. A determination will be made. If eligible the Payee (Landlord, Management Company, or Utility Company) will receive an offer that serves as a promise to pay. 
  6. If accepted, it can take up to 10 business days before payment is ready for distribution. 

    Please Note: Submission of an application or documents does not guarantee service. See the guidelines below for further details.

EAP Program Overview:

The Housing Authority of Clayton County (HACC) originally launched emergency assistance to address the public health crisis that impacted communities worldwide. In response to the ongoing financial hardships faced by many Clayton County residents, the HACC Board of Commissioners has authorized funds for an in-house program designed to assist residents with a one-time payment for one month's rent, mortgage, or a minimal utility payment (up to $350 or the current amount due, whichever is lesser).

Due to high demand and limited funds, the Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) serves as gap support and will currently cover a 30-day window within a 12-month period.

While we are not housing facilitators, we are dedicated to reducing the economic disparities that may prevent individuals from accessing HUD standards for decent, safe, and sanitary housing. To request assistance, applicants must meet the program requirements, submit the necessary documentation, and certify their eligibility. Please note that funds are limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee assistance. For your privacy, all collected information will remain confidential, used only for federal and state record-keeping purposes, and withheld from disclosure as applicable.

To apply for EAP, please ensure you meet the following criteria:

  • Needs-based prevention (Note: We cannot assist with security deposits, down payments, or first month's rent at this time).
  • Applicant must reside in Clayton County.
  • The applicant must be the head of household and/or named on the proof of occupancy (see checklist).
  • Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income for your household size.
  • The payee (landlord, management company, mortgage company, or utility company) must certify their willingness to participate in the program.
    • An acceptance can be rescinded at any time so please seek to address outstanding and pending balances.

Emergency Assistance Program Document Checklist:

If you are prequalified to move forward, you will be required to submit documents from the "EAP checklist."  Please seek to gather them now, as you will have a limited time to submit them after being contacted.

  • Verification of Identity (2 forms required for all adults over 18)
    • Social Security Card and
    • State-issued ID or
    • Divers License or
    • Voter Card/Other or
    • Or passport or Military ID (SSC not required)

  • Verification of Dependents (All household members over 18)
    • Birth Certificates or
    • School Identification Card or
    • School Registration Documentation

  • Verification of Income for the last 30 days (All that applies)
    • 2-4 consecutive check stubs and/or
    • Offer Letter and/or
    • SSA Award Letter and/or
    • Pension Disbursement Statement and/or
    • Bank Statement and/or
    • W2 and/or
    • State-issued income statement

  • Proof of occupancy (2 forms required)
    • Copy of Lease/Mortgage Statement and
    • Copy of a Utility Bill (Electric, Water, Gas)

  • Proof of current standing
    • Demand Letter/Eviction Notice or
    • Notice from rental portal or
    • Mortgage Statement