Most Eviction Bans Expire in June. Here’s How You Can Protect Yourself

During the pandemic, the federal government and several states put eviction bans in place to protect those financially impacted by lockdowns. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) extended the order this spring to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Now, the vast majority of these eviction moratoriums are set to expire on or before June 30, 2021. The end of these protections puts more than 4 million people at risk of eviction or foreclosure within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

If you meet the guidelines for the federal eviction ban, the protection isn’t automatic. You still have time to submit the proper form to your landlord, although if the moratorium isn’t extended, landlords can begin eviction proceedings on July, 1, 2021.

Here’s what you need to know about the CDC’s federal eviction moratorium, when state-level moratoria are going to expire — and what types of other assistance may be available if you’re experiencing financial hardship.

Federal Eviction Ban

No matter where you live in the U.S., you may be eligible for protection under the CDC’s eviction moratorium. The protection isn’t automatic, and you’ll have to meet one of these qualifications:

• You received a stimulus check in 2020 or 2021
• You were not required to report income to the IRS in 2020
• You earned less than $99,000 (single) or less than $198,000 (joint filer) in 2020 or 2021

In addition to one of  the above requirements, you’ll need to be unable to pay your full rent because:

• You’re facing extraordinary medical expenses
• You were laid off from work
• Your income has dropped significantly
• Your work hours or wages have been cut 

If you meet at least one criteria from each of the above groups, you’re eligible for the CDC’s eviction protections. Then, you’ll need to complete an Eviction Protection Declaration form and submit a copy to your landlord.

This moratorium only prevents you from being evicted for not paying rent. If you violate other terms of your lease your landlord may be able to begin eviction proceedings. Also, you’re still responsible for eventually paying the missed rent and any interest or fees that accumulate. 

State Eviction Bans

Some states and municipalities have instituted their own eviction moratoriums. If you live in one of these areas, the local or state protections take precedence only if they provide the “same or greater level of public-health protection,” according to the CDC.

Of the 16 states that currently have eviction bans in place, the vast majority are set to end on the same day or before the CDC’s moratorium.

Where to Find Financial Assistance

Under the American Rescue Plan, $300 a week in extra unemployment benefits are available through Sept. 6, 2021. And under the CARES Act, independent contractors and the self-employed are eligible for unemployment benefits. You can apply for unemployment with your state. However, 22 states are ending both of these provisions early.

The federal government has set aside over $46 billion for its Emergency Rental Assistance programs for households struggling to pay rent or utilities. These funds are distributed to state and local governments, which manage the payouts. The U.S. Department of The Treasury maintains a website with a complete list of these rental assistance programs.

For assistance with other bills, you may be able to qualify for federal, state, or local utility bill relief programs. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has also been temporarily expanded and can help cover the cost of food if you qualify.