The ANCHOR Program is a vital lifeline for renters in New Jersey who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. By providing financial assistance for rent and utility bills, the program helps families stay in their homes and avoid homelessness.
$1,500 ANCHOR program in New Jersey will be sent tom. (Photo: INVESTOPEDIA)
What is ANCHOR Program?
The ANCHOR Program is a new initiative launched by the State of New Jersey to provide financial assistance to households struggling to pay rent or utility bills due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ANCHOR stands for “Assistance with Natural Gas, Electric and Water Utility Bills, Rent Relief Program,” funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
The program is designed to help eligible residents with past-due balances for rent and utility bills dating back to March 13, 2020. Qualifying households can receive up to 12 months of rental and utility assistance, with a maximum payment of $25,000. The funds will be paid directly to landlords and utility companies on behalf of the eligible household, according to The U.S. Sun.
How to Apply to ANCHOR Program?
To apply for the ANCHOR Program, interested households must meet certain eligibility criteria. Applicants must be a renter living in New Jersey who has experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a household income at or below 80% of the area median income. They must also be able to demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability and have past-due balances for rent or utility bills.
To apply, residents can visit the program’s website or call the ANCHOR hotline to speak with a representative. Applicants will need to provide documentation of their income, residency, and past-due balances for rent or utility bills. Landlords and utility companies may also be required to provide documentation and sign forms to receive payment.
Checks Will Be Sent Tomorrow to New Jersey
The ANCHOR Program has already approved over 30,000 applications, with more than $180 million in funding allocated to eligible households. According to the latest updates, the program will be sending out over $100 million in checks to approved households on Monday, February 28th.
This is good news for many families in New Jersey who have been struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic. With the ANCHOR Program’s assistance, they can catch up on past due balances and stay in their homes without the threat of eviction or utility shutoffs.
