Need help with a security deposit in Mercer County, NJ

(Request from D. in Mercer County, New Jersey) I’m renting a house with a man that’s very abusive. I have an excellent job, however, my credit isn’t all that good and I have no money saved to leave. I have a dog and myself and my belongings and a good income to pay my bills however I need help with security deposit to obtain housing on my own. Please help me.

Dear D,

Leaving an unhealthy living situation can be a major priority. It can be especially tough when you lack the financial means to make this transition on your own. I see that you are thinking about the fact that both a month’s rent and an additional security deposit will be due prior to getting approved to lease a place of your own.

Fortunately, you have lots of support. HomeFront NJ can help with security deposits for tenants in Mercer County. Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton can help you with temporary or transitional housing so that you can leave your current abusive situation. They can also help you plan for a permanent move and can line up support to help you with your security deposit in Mercer County. We provided a little information on these organizations to another client who was looking for rent help in New Jersey.

CAPMC

Community Action Partnership of Mercer County (CAPMC) is another option for getting help with a security deposit in Mercer County. They actually go a step farther.

This charitable organization administers properties that it rents out at affordable rates. This could be a potential option for helping you pay less each month in rent for a while so that you can build your savings and plan for a permanent move.

While you may potentially earn more than the eligibility threshold for the transitional housing options, don’t discount this organization as a possibility. The case managers age CAPMC can be a great resource for helping you to discover the aid programs that are available in Mercer County. These are not always widely publicized, so a direct referral can be quite valuable.

Other Options

Based on your lower credit rating, you may wish to avoid rental loans and other personal loan products. Credit union loans can be an option but only if your credit scores are at least a 640-660. Individual institutions have different thresholds for loan approval so it can be worthwhile to ask about their policy prior to applying for a loan.

Finally, you may want to discuss additional programs that serve domestic violence victims in Mercer County. While your situation may or may not necessarily be as severe as experiences of some battered women, these organizations do understand what an abusive situation can do to your well being.

Greater Trenton Behavioral HealthCare (GTBHC) is a partner of the United Way of Greater Mercer County. This charity receives public support to provide case management and supportive housing services to those who are in abusive situations. You may either call the United Way at 609-896-1912 or GTBHC Adult Crisis Prevention & Outreach hotline at 609-396-6788.