7. Submit Written Application
Submitting your voicemail is only a start. A written application and your signature authorization are also required, along with other information. While many people qualify, some do not. We'll advise you how to submit that application using one of these methods.
Online
The preferred method to submit your application is via our online portal. You will be given a link to the portal, and advised how to log in. Once in the portal, you should be able to do virtually everything to fill out and submit your application. You will need to have a unique email address to complete an application via the portal.
In Person
If you lack a computer to fill out the online application, you will be asked to come to our office to fill out a paper application. Someone else can do this for you if that person is on the utility account or rental contract with you. Otherwise, that person will have to have legal status such as a guardianship or power-of-attorney, etc.
By Email
In rare cases, we may make an exception, and allow a person to submit the written application this way. This is not preferred because it presents several risks, and takes substantially more staff time. If you're advised to submit the application by email, you'll be sent a copy of the form, and will be advised where to send it.
8. Await Call Back For Verification or Decision
Once your written application is received, we will review it to determine if more information is needed. If no more information is needed, we'll make a funding decision and notify you. If more information is required, we will reach out to you again. Be sure you remain reachable until you receive a decision.
If we deny your application, you may be able to reapply, depending on the reason for the denial. If we approve your application, you have reached the "Relief Point" on our Application Atlas. This means we will make a pledge to pay a specific dollar amount on your behalf. (Read more below.)
9. Pledged Funding
Congratulations! You have reached the "Relief Point." Our pledge for a specific dollar amount to your utility company or landlord will soon after be followed by our sending a check by First Class Mail.
Please understand that a small number of utility companies will accept our pledge, but not stop their punitive action, such as shut-off of service, until they cash our check. Similarly, some landlords may not accept an emailed pledge to prevent or remove a late fee, or to avoid moving forward with an eviction, until they have our check in hand. If you have questions about how our pledge will impact your service, contact your specific vendor.
We make make every effort to promptly pay pledged funds. Typical processing time is one to two weeks. Occasional delays may occur, usually for one of the following reasons:
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Incorrect address or payee information provided by landlord;
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U.S. Mail delivery errors;
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Mail service delayed by holiday;
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Refusal by landlord to accept payment after initially agreeing.