Kansas has a new program to help pay the bills for people impacted by COVID.

This started March 15, and covers rent, utility, and internet payments for families and individuals.

“Keeping Kansans in their homes and businesses – and ensuring they have access to the high-speed internet needed for telehealth, telework, and virtual school – has been a top priority for my administration since day one,” Governor Kelly said. “This program will be critical in ensuring Kansans can stay secure in their homes, stay warm, and maintain access to the internet.”

Tenants can get up to 12 months of assistance with current or past due rent and past due utility and internet bills. Renters can apply for assistance with all, some, or any one of the services offered. In order to get the assistance, the tenant and landlord must apply online. If the applicant meets the eligibility criteria, Kansas will make payments on the tenant’s behalf directly to the landlord or service providers.

“Home has always been a place of shelter, but during the pandemic it’s become so much more,” Ryan Vincent, KHRC’s Executive Director, said. “The outpouring of interest we saw in the KEPP program demonstrated the tremendous need COVID has created across our state. We’re so pleased to offer not just rent, but also utility and internet assistance so we can keep Kansans safely housed and connected when they need it most.”

The KERA program will initially serve Kansans across the state, except those living within the Wichita city limits. Wichita residents may apply for assistance through the Wichita Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERAP).

To learn more and apply for KERA assistance, visit the KHRC website.