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ICLS launches clinics for Emergency Rental Assistance, Small Claims Back Rent

Starting on January 25 and continuing throughout 2022, Inland Counties Legal Services will host clinics to help Riverside and San Bernardino County residents access Emergency Rental Assistance and Small Claims Back Rent. 

It’s clear that residents in our community are struggling with housing costs as the pandemic continues, but the state does offer financial assistance to help residents stay in their homes while they get back on their feet. For some, being approved for rental assistance is the difference between having a place to live and being on the street. 

That’s the main reason ICLS decided to start these clinics – applications can be complicated, and maybe you’ve been denied when you think you should’ve been approved, or you’ve received a letter that you are being sued in small claims court and are unsure of what to do. When the issue is as serious as housing assistance, you deserve assistance at no cost.  

Our attorneys and volunteers want to help you through that process and help you access the financial assistance you are entitled to. 

The first Emergency Rental Assistance Program Clinic will be on January 25 from 10 a.m. to noon, and the clinics will continue during the same time period every Tuesday. 

The first Small Claims Back Rent Clinic will be held January 28, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., and will continue during the same time period every Friday. 

Those wishing to receive legal assistance from these clinics must go through our intake process and meet certain criteria in terms of income and assets. If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria to become an ICLS client, we invite you to apply anyways!  

Head to https://bit.ly/ICLSApply to apply, or call our Intake Team at 888-245-4257. 

More about the assistance available: 

Already, the state has paid or approved close to $2 billion in rental relief payments that have kept residents in their homes through the pandemic, according to the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency, and there is still more funding available for those in need through the COVID-19 Rent Relief program. The program continues to have funding to pay 100% of back rent or future rent to eligible tenants, and anyone who needs rental assistance is encouraged to apply as soon as possible. 

Renters working through the relief application and approval process may have protections in eviction proceedings. 

Additionally, if the tenant is eligible and money is available, California will pay up to 100% of the unpaid rent as far back as April 1, 2020. 

To learn more about the programs and to apply for assistance, head to CA COVID-19 Rent Relief – Housing Is Key.