Renters Face an Uncertain Future Without Continued Support

• Author: Bryan Miller
• Posted: 2023-12-20

Renters across America have faced immense struggles during the pandemic as job losses and economic hardship have made it nearly impossible for many to pay rent each month.

While federal and state rental assistance programs have provided temporary relief, more is needed to ensure vulnerable households maintain stable housing in the coming months.

According to recent studies, over 20 million renters live in households that have experienced job or income loss due to COVID-19. The federal eviction moratorium and stimulus checks provided some support earlier on, but many of those provisions have now expired.

At the same time, the unemployment rate remains high and jobs have not fully returned.

With rent continuing to come due each month, many renters have depleted their limited savings and maxed out available aid. They now face the prospect of eviction and potential homelessness without further assistance.

While some states have stepped up to allocate portions of their stimulus funding for housing aid, the need far outweighs currently available resources. Renters in most areas have had to compete for limited aid in lotteries and first-come programs, with many unable to access support at all.

The result is an impending eviction crisis that could displace millions of vulnerable individuals and families.

More comprehensive and long-term solutions are urgently needed to stabilize renters through this tenuous recovery period. Additional federal and state funding for rental assistance, extended eviction moratoriums, and other tenant protections could help prevent widespread housing instability.

With the risk of a spike in homelessness looming, governments must take further action to ensure vulnerable renters remain housed. Renters deserve a more hopeful future, not one clouded by the threat of losing their homes.