Now through December 2021, City of Tampa and Hillsborough County staff will be available to provide residents with one-on-one application assistance for critical rental and utilities relief. City of Tampa and Hillsborough County have received federal funding to further help residents who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through two unique programs.
Staff will advise residents on how to apply to the following programs:
City of Tampa Emergency Utilities Assistance Program: Renters who have been impacted by COVID-19 may apply for relief on both current and past-due charges on City of Tampa utilities (Water, Wastewater & Solid Waste services). To qualify, renters must be at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) at the time of application date. There is no maximum on the amount an individual may receive. Financial assistance is awarded on a first-come basis and while funding remains available.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): Renters may apply for financial relief for past-due rent and Tampa Electric (TECO) charges. In addition to past-due rent payments, the program may also cover up to three months of prospective rental payments, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Additional fees, such as late fees, will also be considered for eligible months of approval. Both renters and their respective landlords can apply to qualify for this program. Landlords must be willing to accept payments, as all payments are issued directly to the landlord.
For those that may need one-on-one assistance in completing an application, City staff will be available through December 2021 at two Tampa Parks and Recreation locations:
Ragan Park (1200 E Lake Ave, Tampa)
- Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM*
- Select Saturdays (Sept 4, Oct 2, Dec 4): 12:30 PM – 5 PM
Barksdale Senior Center (1801 N Lincoln Ave, Tampa)
- Tuesdays and Thursdays: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM*
- Select Saturdays (Sept 18, Oct 16, Nov 20, Dec 18): 12:30PM – 3:30PM
*Note: Some date exceptions apply. Find the full calendar of availability at tampa.gov/HCD. This calendar is subject to change based on community needs and/or participation.
Additional dates and locations will be posted on the City’s calendar at tampa.gov/Calendar. For questions, contact the Housing & Community Development Department at (813) 274-7954.