What is RSP Housing in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, NY?
- homelesslongisland
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Short Summary
The Rental Supplement Program (RSP) in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, New York, provides essential housing assistance to families and individuals facing homelessness or at risk of eviction. The program is designed to help maintain housing stability by offering rental subsidies to low-income households, ensuring that they can afford safe and decent housing. With flexible implementation by local agencies, RSP aims to address diverse needs while prioritizing those in urgent situations.
What is RSP Housing in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, NY?
The Rental Supplement Program (RSP) is a New York State initiative that provides rental assistance to eligible individuals and families in Suffolk and Nassau Counties. The program is especially important for those at risk of homelessness, offering financial support to ensure they can secure and maintain permanent housing. RSP offers assistance to a range of households, including those with or without children, and does not require public assistance eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria for RSP in Nassau and Suffolk Counties
- Households (individuals/families with/without children)
experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of eviction.
- Income limits: Applicants must have an income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with special provisions for certain households (e.g., under 30% AMI).
- Rental Costs: Rent must not exceed 30% of the household's income, with subsidies covering up to 85% of Fair Market Rent (FMR).
- Prioritization: Targeted assistance is provided, such as prioritizing families with children under 6, veterans, and victims of domestic violence.
Nassau County has implemented programs that specifically prioritize families and individuals facing homelessness.
Suffolk County has established mechanisms to address not only current needs but also preventive measures against eviction.
Program Operations and Requirements
Both counties have guidelines for RSP operations, including:
- Verification of Tenancy: Proof of primary tenancy, such as a lease or sublease agreement.
- Health and Safety Inspections: Ensuring all housing units meet specific health and safety standards.
- Documentation: Issuing award and denial letters that detail the subsidy amounts and terms.
- Monitoring: Continuous reporting on payments and households served, alongside strategic outreach to potential beneficiaries.
In Suffolk County, efforts are made to engage with local and community-based organizations for wider outreach and assistance, ensuring that help reaches those in greatest need.
Background and Funding
RSP is funded through allocations by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), with both counties receiving annual grants to assist eligible households. The funding structure allows for up to 85% of allocated funds to be directly applied for rental assistance. Districts must submit comprehensive plans to OTDA that outline their strategies for outreach, implementation, and monitoring of the program's effectiveness in combating homelessness.
Engagement with Local Agencies
Suffolk and Nassau Counties work closely with local agencies and non-profit organizations to administer the program effectively. This partnership is crucial for addressing the diverse needs of the populations served and for ensuring that all eligible households can access the financial support they need to secure stable housing. The counties prioritize creating channels for easy applications and community awareness.
There are waiting lists for RSP and related rental assistance programs in Suffolk and Nassau Counties.
Suffolk County RSP and TBRA: Suffolk County's Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program has closed its waiting list, meaning applications are no longer being accepted at this time. 2 ↗ (https://suffolkcountytbra.com 3 ↗ (https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Real-Estate/Affordable-and-Workforce-Housing/Renters
However, applicants are notified when Rental Certificates become available, and a waiting list has been established for those who applied previously. 2 ↗ (https://suffolkcountytbra.com
Nassau County RSP: Nassau County began RSP operations during the 2024-2025 cycle and may have established waitlists as demand has exceeded available funding in many districts statewide. 1 ↗ (https://otda.ny.gov/resources/reports/Rental-Supplement-Program-Report.pdf
Contact Nassau County DSS or Community Housing Innovations (CHI) for current waiting list status. 6 ↗ (https://www.communityhousing.org/housing/rental-subsidy-program/
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): The waiting list for Housing Choice Voucher programs administered by CDLI (Community Development Corporation of Long Island) for Nassau and Suffolk Counties is currently closed. 5 ↗ (https://www.cdli.org/howwecanhelp/housing-choice-voucher-(tenants) Applicants are encouraged to follow CDLI on Instagram or contact them directly at (631) 471-1215 for updates on when applications reopen. 5 ↗ (https://www.cdli.org/howwecanhelp/housing-choice-voucher-(tenants
General RSP Trend: Many districts statewide have stopped accepting RSP applications due to demand exceeding available funds and have established waitlists. 1 ↗ (https://otda.ny.gov/resources/reports/Rental-Supplement-Program-Report.pdf)
Some districts are no longer tracking subsequent applications or denials. 1 ↗ (https://otda.ny.gov/resources/reports/Rental-Supplement-Program-Report.pdf
References
suffolkcountyny.gov - Renters Housing Programs
cdli.org - Housing Choice Voucher (Tenants
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