The STAY DC program is closed and the program is no longer taking new applications. Former applicants may check the status of their application, at STAY.DC.GOV. If applicants have additional questions or concerns, please email [email protected]. If you are behind in your rent 30 days or more, please visit https://erap.dhs.dc.gov/ to apply for rental assistance. Please note that the ERAP program does not pay for future months' rent. If you have questions about the District's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), you can email [email protected] or contact 202-507-6666 to be connected with a member of the ERAP team.
The District of Columbia is pleased to assist District residents seeking assistance with their rent or utilities. On Monday, April 12th, Mayor Bowser announced the launch of Stronger Together by Assisting You (STAY DC), a new platform to consolidate the District’s rental assistance programs during the COVID-19 public health emergency. DC renters seeking assistance with their rent or utilities due to hardships experienced during the public health emergency can apply on the new platform stay.dc.gov.
Additionally, beginning the week of July 19, 2021 the Housing Resource Center will serve as an application intake center for the Stronger Together by Assisting You (STAY DC) rent and utility assistance program, providing access to computers and housing counselors to complete an application. The Housing Resource Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
In-person services will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis and appointments are encouraged for residents wishing to apply for STAY DC. STAY DC application intake appointments can be made online or by calling DHCD at 202-442-7200 between 8:15am and 4:45pm.
If you need rental assistance, we ask that you begin collecting the required documents to apply. Adequate supporting documentation is an important component of the application process as it serves as the basis through which the District can validate your eligibility to participate in the program. The list below provides you with an overview of the documentation requirements for the STAY DC program. A complete application will require the following documents to be uploaded:
- Proof of identity;
- Proof of loss of income OR proof of significant cost incurred OR proof of financial hardship OR proof of risk of experiencing housing instability or homelessness;
- Proof of income for each member of the household;
- Proof of lease or rental agreement; and
- Copy of most recent bill or statement, if applying for utility assistance
Please click here for a detailed list of documents for each category listed above.
In addition to the intake center at DHCD, residents can obtain assistance at any number of events hosted throughout the city listed online at https://stay.dc.gov/events or by calling the STAY DC Contact Center, Monday through Friday from 7:00am to 7:00pm at 833-4-STAYDC (833-478-2932).