Rental Assistance Program (RAP)
• Rockville Office: 1301 Piccard Drive; Phone 240-777-4550; Fax 240-777-4100
• Silver Spring Office: 8818 Georgia Avenue; Phone 240-777-4550; Fax 240-777-3154
How to Apply
RAP is a referral program only and all new applications must be submitted by a Montgomery County, Health and Human Services social worker or case manager working with other Montgomery County programs within the Montgomery County's Homeless Continuum of Care, such as Housing Stabilization Services.
Renewal applications are mailed out two months prior to benefits expiring. You can request a renewal application by calling 240-777-4400. It is the applicant’s responsibility to renew on time.
Documents To Submit at the Time of Renewal
- Proof of gross income for the last thirty days (pay stubs or letter from employer, current award letter for Social Security, SSI, pension, annuity or retirement, child support received, unemployment)
- Financial bank statements for all accounts indicating interest or dividends earned and the principal balances
- Most recently filed Federal Income Tax Form (1040) with all attachments (including W-2 and 1099 forms)
- Proof of out-of-pocket child care or medical expenses for the last twelve months
Eligibility Requirements
- *Must be currently homeless (living in a car, on the street or in a shelter) or at imminent threat of homelessness(eviction notice or lack of resources to maintain housing) AND
- *A member of the household must have a documented disability OR be at least 55 years old
- * You must be a renter in Montgomery County and your rent cannot exceed program limits
- *Your monthly gross income cannot exceed program limits (see table below)
- *Your household assets must be less than $10,000
Rental Assistance Program Income Guidelines (as of September 2024)
| Household # | Max. Monthly | Max. Yearly | % Tenant Responsible |
| 1 | $4,513 | $54,150 | 40.0% |
| 2 | $5,158 | $61,900 | 40.0% |
| 3 | $5,804 | $69,650 | 40.0% |
| 4 | $6,446 | $77,350 | 35.0% |
| 5 | $6,963 | $83,550 | 35.0% |
| 6 | $7,479 | $89,750 | 35.0% |
| 7 | $7,996 | $95,950 | 35.0% |
Fees and Payments
None
FAQ's
1. How is my Rental Assistance check issued once I am approved?
Checks are mailed to your address at the end of each month for the following month’s rent. Checks are made payable to both you and your landlord.
2. How long can I receive benefits?
Benefits are approved for a maximum period of 12 months. A new application is required to determine continued eligibility.
3. Is the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) currently accepting applications?
Yes, RAP is a referral program only and all new applications must be submitted by a Montgomery County, Health and Human Services social worker or case manager working with other Montgomery County programs within the Montgomery County's Homeless Continuum of Care, such as Housing Stabilization Services.
4. What if I live in Public Housing or have a Housing Choice Voucher rental subsidy?
Federal regulations prohibit the receipt of Rental Assistance Program (RAP) by households who receive assistance under a Housing Choice Voucher or live in a Public Housing unit.
5. Do you provide eviction assistance?
NO, please contact your local Housing Stabilization Services Office.
6. How much assistance is available?
Eligible households can receive between $100 and $503 per month.
7. Can the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) assist with room rentals?
In some instances RAP can assist with room or basement rentals.
8. If I move will I still continue to receive a benefit?
Notify your caseworker if you are moving and reapply within thirty days at your new address. If you remain eligible at your new address, you can continue to receive monthly benefits.
10. Am I eligible if I rent from a relative?
Those renting from a relative whether or not the relative resides at the same address, is NOT eligible
No additional information at this time.
P-743