Rent Reimbursement
The Rent Reimbursement Program through Iowa Health and Human Services, HHS, (previously through Iowa Internal Revenue Service, IRS) allows those who are 65+ OR disabled aged 18-64 to receive a one-time reimbursement payment of up to $1,000. It is based on the amount of rent paid in Iowa in the previous year. (People may use the same link below for applying for 2021 if they have not already done so).
New for 2023 is that it is in a simple online format.
- Anyone eligible may apply here: https://benefits.stateofiowahhs.org/program/rentreimbursement
- If someone needs assistance they can set up an appointment at any Community Action of Southeast Iowa location if a resident of that county.
- If they don’t want assistance but just need the internet or a computer, they could utilize their local library, but will need to scan in their documents to upload or have them available to upload into the online form.
HHS is STONRGLY encouraging people to apply online and discouraging paper forms. However, if there is someone who needs assistance and is not able to do an in-person appointment or phone appointment and get in their documentation, our centers can provide the paper forms as a last resort but will attempt all other methods of assistance first.
- More information, qualifications, and links on Community Action of Southeast Iowa’s website: https://caofseia.org/services/adults/rent-reimbursement/
- To apply online, more information, or to check application status with HHS: https://benefits.stateofiowahhs.org/program/rentreimbursement
- HHS rent reimbursement basic information page: https://dhs.iowa.gov/rent-reimbursement
- The phone number for the Rent Reimbursement Unit: 515-420-6077
Anyone can help someone apply (friend, family member, worker, etc). At the end of the online application the helper will be asked to input their information as well as the person’s electronic signature. This is a great benefit to people who qualify. A $1,000 check (size dependent on rent paid) is a HUGE boost to a low income household to do with whatever they need! At Community Action in fiscal year 2023: 59% of our low income clients were renters, 22% were over 55, and 1,262 individuals received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).