(Des Moines) A reminder from the Iowa Department of Human Rights: The CDC’s moratorium on nonpayment evictions ends on December 31, 2020.  The Order protects renters who meet certain requirements and who sign a declaration form and give it to the landlord. Evictions can take place if certain terms of the lease are broken.  Late fees can still be charged, and the obligation to pay rent remains. The process and requirements around the moratorium and evictions can be complex. For information on how to take advantage of the moratorium, visit Iowa Legal Aid’s website.

If you are unable to pay your rent, here are some resources on rental assistance, housing, and other help.

• Iowa legal Aid-Eviction Information/Rights
• Resident Declaration Form – Other Languages
• Eviction Moratorium Information in 18 Asian Languages
• COVID-19 Legal Advice Hotline 1-800-332-0419
• HHS/CDC Frequently Asked Questions
• Houseiowa.org – database of housing resources
• 211iowa.org or call 2-1-1 for resources

Iowa Emergency Solutions Grant CARES Act 
The Emergency Solutions Grant program helps prevent households from becoming homeless due to eviction, and assists Iowans experiencing homelessness to quickly regain rental housing.  Examples of assistance available to eligible individuals include rent and utility payments, including in arrears, legal assistance, application fees, security and utility deposits, moving costs, case management and credit repair. All financial assistance is paid directly to landlords and service providers  The assistance will remain available until all funds are exhausted or September 30, 2022.

For assistance and eligibility, call the Housing Recovery help line at 1-833-739-0065 or use the Regional Coordinated Entry Contact Finder to find a service agency in your area