Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

Application Opportunity: We Have Reached Capacity for January 12, 2026

The next limited but fair opportunity to apply for financial assistance will open on Monday, February 09, 2026, at 12:00 PM (NOON). 

Process Outline:

• On this day and time only, Clayton County residents who are in need of one month's rent, mortgage, or a utility payment may click the link HERE to access the Interest Form.
  
  
  • You will not be able to see the portal link called EAP Waitlist Portal until it is open.
    
    
• The application period will remain open until monthly capacity is reached, so we encourage applicants to monitor our website regularly for future opportunities to apply.
  
  
• If you are able to complete the Interest Form and secure a place on the waiting list, you will receive a confirmation email. There is no need to call to verify as you will be contacted within 72 business hours, first by phone and then by email with next steps.
  
  
• No documents are required to complete the initial Interest Form. However, if your application is selected to move forward, the list of documents that will be requested is provided below for your convenience and preparation. See the guidelines below for further details.

Please note: Neither completing the application nor submitting documents guarantees approval. Additionally, notice cannot be provided to any payee in advance of determining eligibility and meeting all program requirements.

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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).
• The applicant's total household income must not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
  • 2025 AMI Guidelines:
    (1-member max income 64,000)
    (2-member max income 73,120)
    (3-member max income 82, 240)
    (4-member max income 91,360)
    (5-member max income 98,720) 
    (6-member max income 106,000) 
    (7-member max income 113,360) 
    (8-member max income 120,640) 
• 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 18 and under)
  • 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 (both forms are required)
  • Copy of Lease/Mortgage Statement and
  • Copy of a Utility Bill (i.e. Electric, Water, or Gas)
    
    
• Proof of current standing (not required for utility assistance as noted on current bill)
  • Demand Letter/Eviction Notice or
  • Notice from rental portal or
  • Mortgage Statement