Notice of Rental Assistance for Rent Nonpayment Eviction Diversion Program
INFORMATION FOR THE LANDLORD:
The City of Jacksonville has set aside rental assistance funds for the benefit of landlords and tenants. This program is designed for tenants experiencing a short-term problem paying rent. One goal is to reduce evictions in Duval County by giving eligible tenants and consenting landlords the ability to resolve arrears in rent, utilities, and/or home energy costs due on or after November 1, 2023. Another goal is to stabilize housing for at least six months after receiving EDP assistance. The program is able to assist with up to three months’ back rent. However, a landlord’s participation in this program and receipt of rental assistance, does not prevent a landlord from filing a future eviction lawsuit against the tenant in the event of a future lease violation.
To participate in the Eviction Diversion Program, you must immediately complete and email a Consent to Referral to Eviction Diversion Program Form 
to an Eviction Diversion Program Coordinator. By completing the form, you are agreeing to a 30-day extension of the lawsuit so that the tenant can be evaluated for rental assistance. Attach to your email a copy of the current lease, up-to-date rental ledger, and either the notice demanding the tenant pay or move, or the court case number. The Eviction Diversion Program Coordinator will review the Consent Form and promptly file it with the court.
In accordance with the Second Amended Administrative Order No. 2024-02, upon payment of rental assistance that brings the tenant’s account balance to zero, immediately file a Notice of Dismissal and Receipt of Eviction Diversion Program Funds.
To contact an Eviction Diversion Program Coordinator, email: evictioncoordinator@coj.net
INFORMATION FOR THE TENANT:
You can be evicted from your rental property as a result of the eviction lawsuit. Follow the instructions on your summons. If you take no action, a judgment may be entered against you. You may, however, qualify for rental assistance to avoid eviction if you act quickly.
You must act immediately to maintain your rental property. If you delay, your ability to qualify for rental assistance may be lost. IF you meet the eligibility requirements below, and want to participate, contact your landlord to request the landlord complete a Consent to Referral to Eviction Diversion Program Form and submit it to an Eviction Diversion Program Coordinator.
To contact an Eviction Diversion Program Coordinator, email: evictioncoordinator@coj.net
GENERAL PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION:
- An eligible tenant must be:
- a U.S. Citizen or Legal Resident Alien;
- a resident of Duval County (including the Beaches and Town of Baldwin);
- delinquent on the payment of rent, certain utilities and/or home energy costs due on or after November 1, 2023, resulting in the potential for an eviction lawsuit in Duval County; and
- part of an eligible household with one or more persons who are obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling in Duval County.
- An eligible household must:
- include one or more persons who is a child under the age of 18 years or a senior citizen over the age of 65 years;
- have experienced a temporary reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship and can attest to such in writing;
- have income that is equal to or below the ALICE threshold based on household composition that is, for example, $68,592.00 for a family of four (4); and
- demonstrate the ability to financially remain self-sufficient for six (6) months after funds have been disbursed to pay rent, utilities, and/or home energy costs.
- An eligible landlord must provide copies of:
- the notice of rent nonpayment/lease termination sent to the tenant,
- the current lease between the parties,
- an up to date ledger that includes all amounts currently due, and
- a completed W-9 form (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdf).
- Rental assistance may be available for:
- Rent
- Reasonable late fees
- Utilities (if funds are available)
- Court filing fees