Housing Information and Resources
I’m having trouble paying my mortgage.
Some homeowners have the option of mortgage forbearance. This pauses your mortgage payment for a limited time. It does not erase what you owe. Instead, those payments will be tagged on to the end of your mortgage. Video on Mortgage Forebearance –
I’m having trouble paying my rent.
• Emergency assistance applications are available at www.ApplyMN.dhs.mn.gov. Some restrictions are currently waived due to Covid-19.
• Veterans
• The Minnesota legislature might approve additional financial assistance during the special session that begins June 12
What does an eviction moratorium mean?
An eviction moratorium means rent is due but your landlord cannot file an eviction until the moratorium is lifted. We encourage you to try and remain current on your rent and keep lines of communication open with your landlord.
When will the eviction moratorium lift?
There are two moratoria. Most rental households are covered under the moratorium declared by Governor Walz. Currently, it is to expire on July 13th unless extended again by the Governor. Previously, announcements regarding extensions have been made with little notice.
The National CARES Act also placed a moratorium on many rental properties. This moratorium lifts on July 24th and requires a 30-day notice to evict so late August is the earliest landlords covered by the CARES Act can file. In Hennepin County Housing Court, landlords wishing to file under the state timeline will need to certify that they are not bound by the CARES Act. Here is a list of properties with over 4 units covered by the CARES Act. If you are a landlord you may use this tool.
What if an eviction was filed prior to the moratorium?
These will be the first cases scheduled for court hearings. A new eviction summons and court date will be issued by Housing Court. Landlords and tenants are encouraged to work something out. Please read the summons carefully for Covid-related court practices.
If I receive an evictions summons do I need to go to Housing Court?
Landlords and tenants are encouraged to work things out prior to their court date. If you need help working things out with your landlord, mediators can help you with those conversations. Due to the backlog and social distancing measures, it will take longer than usual to get a court date.
I need help working out a plan or other agreement with my landlord/with my tenant.
RAMP can help you start a conversation and, when you’re ready, work out a plan. Mediators are available to help you work out agreements and put them into writing. To learn more about mediation, call 507.581.7243. These conversations are taking place over the phone and through video conferencing.
I need help understanding my rights as a tenant.
Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid provides legal advice to low-income Minneapolis renters. Information and resources for all Minneapolis renters is available at www.mylegalaid.org or call: 612-334-5970.
LawHelpMN.org is a great website that contains legal information in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali.
FOOD
Find food shelves and free meals near you: http://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/Apply for long-term food benefits (SNAP): https://applymn.dhs.mn.gov/
UTILITIES
• Xcel Energy announced it will indefinitely suspend service disconnections and waive late fees when associated with COVID-19 challenges. Call 1-800-895-4999 for more information.
• CenterPoint Energy is doing the same for gas. Call 1-800-245-2377.
• Comcast has also expanded access to internet, waiving late fees, and providing free hot spots.
I need help accessing my Federal Economic Impact Payment and/or filing taxes.
Prepare + Prosper works with people with low- to moderate-incomes to build financial well-being through free tax preparation and financial services, coaching, and products. Currently, they are offering remote support in filing returns for taxes and stimulus payments.
For more information, visit www.prepareandprosper.org. For tax help or general questions, contact 651-287-0187.
United Way, Call 2-1-1 or text 898211
