Housing and Public Benefits | Resource for Non-Citizens in Texas During the Pandemic
Information about your options for preventing eviction is available at https://www.trla.org/housinghelp and https://stoptxeviction.org/.
Here are other options that may allow you to remain in your home:
You can find more information about the CDC order at: https://www.trla.org/cdc-eviction-order-english.
In addition, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs has two rental assistance programs that can help pay up to 15 months of rent or utility expenses. Everyone can participate in the programs if you have identification, such as a passport from any country, a library card, or a school ID.
If you are behind on your rent or utilities but are not yet in an eviction proceeding, you can apply for the Texas Rent Relief (TRR) Program at https://texasrentrelief.com/ or 1-833-989-7368.
If your landlord has already filed an eviction case against you, you may qualify for the Texas Eviction Diversion Program (TEDP). If you already have an application on file with the TRR Program, you can add information about your eviction case, and your TRR application will be fast-tracked. If you and your landlord agree to participate in TEDP, the judge should delay your eviction hearing so that you can apply for TEDP. If you and your landlord can resolve your case through the TEDP, your eviction lawsuit will be dismissed and kept confidential. Find more information at www.txcourts.gov/eviction-diversion/.
When you fill out the TRR application online, you will be asked for a Social Security number. You do not have to provide a number to complete the application.
In order to participate, you do not need a written lease as long as your landlord is willing to confirm that you live in your home and you and your landlord agree on how much you owe in rent.
Certain cities and counties have their pandemic eviction restrictions and rent assistance programs in place. Check your local government websites for more information.
Information about the eviction process is available at https://texaslawhelp.org/article/eviction
Public Benefits for Green Card Holders and U.S. Citizen Relatives
The pandemic has resulted in significant financial hardship for many families. U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents of all ages may be eligible for public benefits such as SNAP (food stamps), TANF (cash assistance), and Medicaid. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has increased the benefits SNAP recipients get by 15% during the pandemic.
The 2019 change to the public charge rule is no longer in effect. Any public benefits your family members use will not affect your eligibility for immigration benefits.
Most people who apply for benefits do not need to apply in person. Texas has an online application for state benefits at www.YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1 to find the office nearest you. To apply for the Texas Women’s Health Program, go to www.texaswomenshealth.org or call 1-800-335-8957. To apply for Social Security benefits, go to www.ssa.gov.