Rental Allowance Program (RAP)
The Rental Allowance Program (RAP) is open only when funding is available. Call 301-934-0112 to check program status. When funds are awarded, a notice will be published in the local paper with instructions on how to apply.
Click here to access the RAP Guidelines.
The Rental Allowance Program (RAP) is designed to assist those most in need based on severity of need and ability to become/remain self sufficient.
Applicant Eligibility
Local administration determines the eligibility and priority of recipients
for RAP. Eligible applicants must meet at least the following criteria
to be eligible for the program.
Eligible applicants must show proof of a critical/ emergency housing need and be able to return to long-term housing sufficiency following a short term period of RAP subsidy payments.
Applicants must have a demonstrated history of Charles County residency.
Click here to see the current household maximum income limits.
About the ProgramThe goal of the program is to aid in the continuance of self sufficiency. Approved applicants are considered to be the most in need because of an unexpected crisis or emergency situation that has disrupted their life. Applicants are evaluated on the ability to be immediately housed or already in housing, but in danger of losing that housing through no fault of their own. The family must lack sufficient resources to secure permanent housing. The program is not intended to be the first step for economic self reliance. Ranking Factors
How the Program Works
Once approved, the client is issued a certificate. The participant is allowed 30 days to find housing in Charles County. If after 30 days the client has not found a place to live, a one-time extension of 30 days is permitted. When the client finds a unit to rent, they return a notice requesting inspection approval. When the unit passes inspection, contracts are signed and the tenant may move in. RAP payments are restricted to 12 months.
How to Participate
Applications are accepted when funding is available, and appointments are made to complete the application process. Staff complete a preliminary analysis of need, income, and likelihood of attaining self-sufficiency. Documentation is gathered.