The RentReliefRI program has closed.
The RentReliefRI program closed on September 30, 2022, and decisions were made on all applications by that date. If you have questions about a previous application, please login to the online application portal or email info@rentreliefri.com.
If you are a Rhode Island renter who received RentReliefRI funds and are now facing eviction, reach out to RI Legal Services (401-274-2652) and/or The Center for Justice (401-491-1101) for legal assistance.
If you are a renter struggling to make your rent and/or utility payments, reach out to United Way 2-1-1, a 24/7 social and human services helpline that offers free and confidential referrals to programs and services throughout the state. Dial 2-1-1 for immediate assistance from a specialist or visit their website for more information.
For those experiencing homelessness, please call the Rhode Island Coordinated Entry hotline at 401-277-4316.
Landlords: 1099 tax forms will be emailed in January 2023 to the landlord address on file. 1099 forms will also be accessible via the RentReliefRI online application portal at that same time.
Renters Needing Assistance with Heating Oil and/or Propane
There are financial resources available through Community Action Programs (CAP) across RI. CAP agencies administer both the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and the Good Neighbor Energy Fund programs. Interested households may apply for either program via a CAP agency serving their community. Click here to learn more >
Frequently Asked Questions
What other resources exist for renters struggling to make their rent and/or utility payments?
United Way 2-1-1 in Rhode Island is a 24/7 social and human services helpline that offers free and confidential referrals to programs and services throughout the state. Dial 2-1-1 for immediate assistance from a specialist or visit their website for more information.
For those experiencing homelessness, call the Rhode Island Coordinated Entry hotline at (401) 277-4316.
Free legal aid is available to assist low-income tenants with referrals, legal information, and legal representation for evictions statewide. Renters can reach out to RI Legal Services and/or The Center for Justice for assistance.
RI Legal Services: 401-274-2652 // The Center for Justice: 401-491-1101.
Does RentReliefRI assistance need to be paid back?
Assistance does not need to be paid back and it does not count as income for tenants.
What should I do if I am facing eviction?
If you have applied for rental assistance from the RentReliefRI program, please note your status as applicant in eviction proceedings is prioritized.
What should renters do if they need assistance with heating oil and/or propane?
There are financial resources available through Community Action Programs (CAP) across RI. CAP agencies administer both the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and the Good Neighbor Energy Fund programs. Interested households may apply for either program via a CAP agency serving their community.
I am a landlord who received rental payments from the RentReliefRI program. Is this payment includible in my gross income?
Yes. Rental payments you receive, whether from your tenant or from RentReliefRI on your tenant’s behalf, are includible in your gross income.
About RentReliefRI
RentReliefRI is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number ERA0013 awarded to the State of Rhode Island by the U.S. Department of Treasury.
Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program (RentReliefRI) Program Administrative Plan – 08/26/2022
Newly passed legislation in Rhode Island now makes it illegal to discriminate against a potential tenant based on their source of income. This includes discriminating against tenants because they receive a housing choice voucher. This discrimination may include advertisements that say “No Section 8 allowed” or telling a potential tenant a unit is no longer available after learning they have a voucher. To learn more, please click here.
