Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA)
Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) supports Colorado renters behind on rent with short-term rental payments, necessary fees, and, in some cases, relocation aid to prevent eviction or displacement.
This grant was recently updated
CERA’s next Monthly Random Selection pre-application window changed from October 13–15, 2026, to November 4 at 10:00 a.m. through November 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Funder: Colorado Division of Housing
Due Dates: November 4, 2026, 10:00 a.m. (Monthly pre-applications open) | November 6, 2026, 5:00 p.m. (Monthly pre-application deadline) | Monday–Friday (Daily selection intake through CARE Center)
Funding Amounts: Up to $15,000 per household for short-term assistance; exceptions considered case by case
Summary: CERA helps Colorado renters address unpaid rent and prevent eviction or displacement through short-term rental assistance.
Key Information: Household income must be at or below 60% of county Area Median Income, and qualifying eviction documentation is required.
Description
Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA), administered by the Colorado Division of Housing, supports renters who are behind on rent and at risk of eviction or displacement. It provides short-term rental payments and may cover associated fees when necessary to protect a household from displacement. Relocation assistance is available in some cases.
Demand exceeds available funding, and the division uses monthly and daily random selection processes to invite households to complete full applications. Selection does not guarantee assistance: households must meet eligibility requirements and provide complete documentation. The CARE Center helps residents understand their options, apply for assistance, and find other resources or in-person support when CERA cannot help.
