Pilot Rental Assistance Program

About the Program

From December 15, 2025 to June 30, 2026, or until program funds are exhausted, the Pilot Rental Assistance Program (RAP) will provide short-term financial relief and supportive services to residents of the City of Salinas who are facing eviction due to non-payment of rent. The program’s goal is to help households remain in stable housing, prevent displacement, and reduce the risk of homelessness.

All rental assistance payments will be made directly to landlords to ensure timely support and proper use of funds. In addition to providing direct rental assistance, RAP connects households with community resources that support long-term stability, addressing both immediate financial needs and underlying factors that may contribute to housing insecurity.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the City of Salinas Pilot Rental Assistance Program, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Must be a resident of the City of Salinas
• Be a first-time recipient of Homeless Prevention assistance from the City of Salinas
• Have a valid 12-month lease for the rental unit
• Provide a 3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit
• Have a household income at or below 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
• Be no more than three months behind on rent
• Not currently receiving rental subsidies or financial assistance from another program
• Must agree to participate in Rental Counseling with ECHO Housing
• Landlord must be willing to participate with the program

*Please keep in mind that the duration of this assistance is a one-time payment.

Review and Processing Timeline

1. Approved/Denied applicants and landlords will receive written notice of approval within 7 days of the completed application.
2. The notice will include the estimated payment timeline, generally 2-4 weeks, depending on internal processing timelines.
3. Denied applicants may request a secondary review within 10 business days of the denial notice.

How To Apply

Give us a call at (831)758-4269 and we'll schedule an appointment with a team member who can walk you through the process.

Or, email us at sorthomelessprevention@salinas.gov with the following:

• A completed application form
• Your most recent lease agreement
• A 3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit
• Identification and income documentation for all household members

Once you've submitted a completed application with the required documents, a team member will follow up with you to complete an initial intake within seven days.

Forms