COVID-19 Resources for Residential Tenants

Updated March 23, 2022

If you are having a hard time paying rent, you are not alone. The Oregon Department of Justice does not have authority over landlord-tenant disputes and cannot provide you with legal advice. However, we want you to know the information below if you are struggling to pay rent.

Please note: the law in this area is changing often, and this page may not have the latest information.

Emergency Rental Assistance

State and federal eviction freezes have ended. If you want to continue living in your home, you must pay rent or act.

The Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP) » has closed to new applicants. However, you might be able to apply for help with rent through a local organization listed here ». Local programs may open and close at times without warning. Each local program has its own rules about eligibility and how to apply. 

Applying for emergency rental assistance will protect you from eviction while your application is being processed. That protection will last until September 30, 2022. To get that protection, you must apply for emergency rental assistance by June 30, 2022, and you must submit proof of your application to your landlord. The important thing is to apply as soon as you can if you need help.

There might be other services that could help you. To learn more, dial 211 ». You can also contact your local community action agency to see if you qualify for help. Find your local agency here ».

For state law updates to landlord and tenant law, visit the Oregon State Bar website ».

Learn More

Oregon Law Help, which is run by legal aid organizations, has a site for renters called Oregon Renters Rights ». The site has information in many languages ».

The City of Portland has an FAQ for renters and landlords. Many of the questions on that page apply across the state. You can find it here ».

The federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has a page for renters across the country. You can find it here ».

Legal Help

If you are facing eviction and have received a court summons, the Eviction Defense Project » might be able to help.

Legal aid offices connect low-income individuals with free legal help. Learn more and find your local office here ».

The Oregon State Bar helps moderate-income individuals find affordable legal help through its Modest Means program. Learn more here ».

The Oregon State Bar also runs a general lawyer referral service. Learn more here ».