Rental aid for delinquent Cortland tenants

Cortland tenants who find themselves unable to pay the rent will eventually face eviction unless they can find a way to handle the arrears. This can be done using grants or loans depending on the situation.

The agencies that serve Cortland residents ensure that tenants are not forced into homelessness when issues arise that threaten their ability to make rent. Tenants benefit by getting the help they need to stay in their homes and out of taxpayer-funded shelters. Landlords benefit by reducing turnover. The people of Cortland County benefit when fewer fellow residents are homeless.

Cortland Housing Assistance Council

The Cortland Housing Assistance Council (C.H.A.C.) provides assistance to tenants who are experiencing financial troubles. This HUD-approved agency counsels delinquent tenants who are in danger of eviction. They use various strategies for handling different problems.

  • Housing counseling can help those who are delinquent on the rent. In addition to free counseling, case managers are familiar with aid programs that could be matched to potentially eligible tenants.
  • Affordable apartmentsare provided to give cash-strapped tenants a cheaper option.
    • Maple Avenue Apartments feature one and two bedroom units with utilities included. Rents run from $380 to $550 per month.
    • Pomeroy School Apartments also include utilities. Single bedroom apartments start at $400 per month, with rent rising to around $600 for a three bedroom apartment.
    • The house at 26 Homer Avenue is divided into single bedroom apartments. Rent of $450 per month includes heat.

To get help from C.H.A.C., tenants may call 607-753-8271.

Cortland Housing Authority

A total of 74 public housing units are administered by the Cortland Housing Authority. Vacancies do come up periodically, though most tenants are long-term occupants.

The Authority also distributes 306 Housing Choice Vouchers to help tenants pay rent to private landlords. The subsidies are high enough to ensure that tenants do not pay more than 40% of their income in rent and utilities. Demand for these vouchers is very high, with applicants normally waiting years for a voucher to be issued to them. Applicants may call 607-753-1771 to begin their search.

Catholic Charities

Applicants for public aid who are denied assistance may turn to Catholic Charities of Cortland County. Tenants who have experienced an emergency or job loss are a priority of the charity.

Cash aid to prevent an eviction is a possibility, although some recently evicted tenants may get help with a security deposit. Clients will need to show that they were denied benefits through social security prior to gaining access to relief through the organization.

Programs include the Charles St. Residence and Recovery Apartment Program, Lawrence House and the Independent Housing Option. Inquiries may be directed to 607-756-5992.

Loan Options

The primary nonprofit lender in Cortland County is CFCU Community Credit Union. An open membership policy means that residents of Cortland County are eligible to join.

Unsecured personal loans start in the mid-single digits, though some applicants may qualify for a higher interest rate. As long as an applicant’s income is verified and they have a reasonable credit rating, a loan can be approved very quickly. Residents may call 607-257-8500 to get information on joining.