With many Americans lagging behind on their rent, over 75% of $ 46.6 billion in pandemic funds is still available, according to new US Treasury data.

Despite improvements in the distribution of money to households in need, only 510,000 households received “tenant stimulus checks” last month. With this money, tenants can settle their bills and settle their debts.

Only about $ 2.8 billion was paid out in September, but that’s only 11% more than a month earlier.

This is how you can find relief today if you have difficulty paying your rent and other bills.

Dozens of billions are still stuck but out

Tenants have only received $ 10 billion in rental subsidies to date, although several states have made some improvements to reduce bottlenecks.

The funds may have prevented fewer Americans from losing their homes after the national evictions moratorium ended in August. Eviction suits are below historical levels, says the Treasury Department.

The government plans to make more than 3 million payments by the end of this year.

In August the Biden administration announced one Series of new steps to help states and communities distribute money more quickly to families with critical needs.

Places where rental support works

If you or someone you know tried to seek emergency rental assistance and became frustrated or confused, you can contact yours local housing office to see if things have gotten better.

Improvements have been made in some places. Michigan, Minnesota and North Carolina gave their tenants 14% more last month than before, the Treasury Department reports.

Los Angeles more than doubled its payouts to $ 72 million in September, from $ 32 million the previous month. Illinois spent 185% more ($ 177 million) last month, compared to $ 62 million in August.

Social workers have worked in court to make sure evicted people know how to apply for emergency financial assistance.

Other areas overcame language and technical barriers by using nonprofit community organizations to work with tenants and landlords.

The story goes on

The tenants may not know, but this help can pay other bills in addition to the apartment. You can pay for utilities and house energy bills. It can also cover internet charges to your home, reasonable late fees, and moving expenses for families who need to move to another home.

To learn more about how the funds are distributed, who is eligible, and how to apply locally, contact the Consumer Protection Office.

Create your own tenant relief

While you’re still waiting for help or not eligible, there are several ways you can improve your finances:

• Reduce debt. One way to stretch your budget is to make it more manageable. You can replace your high-interest debt with a single, lower-interest debt consolidation loan. This saves you from spending your money unnecessarily on high interest rates – what help you get rid of debt previously.

• Find a better job. Many jobs are just waiting to be filled. Some offer higher salaries and other incentives just to get you to walk through the door. A new, better paying job can give you more money on your bills. Some companies even offer educational opportunities to improve your skills – and may open up more career opportunities for you.

• Shop smarter. Bargain hunting can free up some of your money, and it’s now easier than ever. By downloading a free browser extension that automatically searches thousands of retailers for lower prices can save you a lot of time.

• Put a few cents to work for you. Sometimes a clerk at a cash register will ask you to round up pennies of your purchase to a good cause. Now, with a popular app, you can do it yourself. It’s your turn “Change” from daily purchases into an investment portfolio that pays off.

This article is for information only and is not intended as advice. It is provided without any guarantee.