Still suffering from COVID? Apply in-person for Polk County rent, utility help Wednesday

Sara-Megan Walsh, The Ledger
Updated ·1 min read

LAKELAND — Polk County residents can get in-person help applying for emergency rent and utility assistance on Wednesday.

Florida Rural Legal Services will offer its assistance from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RHEMA Word of Faith International, 3330 Skyview Drive, Lakeland. Anyone who has experienced financial hardship or loss because of COVID-19 may be eligible for financial assistance through the county.

Who qualifies to receive financial help?

  • Polk County residents who are experiencing a loss or reduction of income, loss of employment or health-related issues because of COVID.

  • Residents who are currently delinquent on rent or utility payments.

  • And residents with a gross household income below 80% of the area median income based on household size.

To qualify, individuals must have a monthly income less than $3,150, or $37,800 a year; or a family of four with an income of less than $4,500 a month, or $54,000 a year.

New scholarship Polk State College creates scholarship to honor student, graduate killed in plane crash

Previously Polk County opens $750,000 to residents still suffering financial impact of COVID

What's needed to apply?

  • Florida driver's license for applicant and co-applicant.

  • Documented income hardship (qualifying for unemployment benefits, significant reduction of income or increase in expenses because of COVID).

  • Delinquent statement for rent or utilities (water, electricity, internet).

  • Current lease or rental statement in the applicant or co-applicant's name.

  • Recent pay stub, unemployment letter or 2021 tax returns.

  • W-9 form from landlord or property manager.

To learn more about the county's assistance program or apply via phone, call 863-904-4800.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Lakeland event to sign-up for Polk's emergency rent, utility aid