That’s a Wrap for ERAP (for now…)

Jordan J. Metzger

December 21, 2022

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New York’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) will close as of January 15, 2023. This decision is the outcome of a settlement reached with tenant groups on December 14, 2022.

ERAP was originally instituted to assist tenants who were impacted by the Covid 19 pandemic. The program ran out of money in 2021, forcing it to close. The Legal Aid Society, on behalf of certain tenant groups, commenced an action to reopen the program in December 2021, and obtained an injunction to keep the program open in the hopes that further funding would be acquired.

The program did not get any additional funding. The settlement provides for the injunction to be lifted and the program will close unless further funds are made available.

When open, ERAP allowed tenants who could not afford to pay their rent to delay eviction by applying for benefits. Although the program is schedule to close on January 15, 2023, existing applicants will continue to be protected from eviction as long as their applications are pending.

As the law continues to evolve on these matters, please note that this article is current as of date and time of publication and may not reflect subsequent developments. The content and interpretation of the issues addressed herein is subject to change. Cole Schotz P.C. disclaims any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this publication to the fullest extent permitted by law. This is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Do not act or refrain from acting upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining legal, financial and tax advice. For further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to your firm contact or to any of the attorneys listed in this publication.