Rental Assistance Available to Somerset County Residents

Somerset County Freeholder Brian D. Levine has announced that the Somerset County Rental Assistance Program is available to provide up to 15 months of rental assistance and monthly case management to eligible Somerset County residents.

The case management is provided by a trained volunteer and is intended to help clients set and achieve goals that promote long-term financial stability. The program provides a monthly subsidy to pay the difference between household rent and 30 percent of one’s monthly income, up to a maximum of $300 per month.

“The goal of this program is to help working families achieve financial stability,” said Freeholder Levine, human services liaison. 

Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they will be able to afford their housing without rental assistance within 15 months.  In order to qualify, at least one adult in the household must be employed, working at least 30 hours per week. Any non-working adult must have a verifiable disability or be a caregiver for a member of the household.

In addition, applicants must have a formal lease at a rental rate that is less than the fair-market rent for the unit size, and must be within the following maximum income limits:

  • 1 Person - $51,500
  • 2 People - $58,800
  • 3 People - $66,200
  • 4 People - $73,500
  • 5 People - $79,400
  • 6 People - $85,300

In addition, program participants must complete a monthly household budget; attend a monthly meeting with the program case manager; and be willing to accept case management services that include financial management, employment and/or any other services that are deemed necessary to maintain permanent housing in Somerset County.

Applicants who meet the criteria will be served on a first-come, first-served basis after being screened by the Somerset County Community Development Office.  For more information call the office at (908) 541-5756.