Tips: Keep Your Housing

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Whether you’re an individual with I.D.D seeking independent living, a caregiver exploring supportive housing options, or a passionate advocate wanting to help others, this video is designed to equip you with the tools you need to navigate the complex world of housing.

Throughout this video we will cover the importance of budgeting, and paying bills on time.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There is a vibrant and compassionate community ready to support you every step of the way.

Budgeting & Bills

Paying Rent and Bills, Evictions

George: “For a budget, it is because you will have to know when to pay your rent or your phone bill and your electricity or any of those rents to be paid. Like sometimes you never know when you’re going to get a, have to pay the bill. Could be on a day of the 9th, the 10th, or right after.“

Glenn: “Making sure that you do everything that you need to do like shopping and working, or taking care of your apartment.”

Lonney: “I pay my cell phone bill, and my tire bill with my paycheck, Pay my rent, my electric, my cable, my insurance. “

Try to anticipate all of your expenses ahead of time so you don’t overspend. If you can put some money into savings in case of an emergency or when planning a vacation. You never know when you might need extra funds.

Why is it important to pay rent on time?

George: “I usually have to work with my partner to pay the rent. If you don’t pay your rent on time, you get a charge, depending on what the property managers say.”

Amy: “I always text my Rep. Payee to make sure that my phone bill and my rent is paid on time. Because if you don’t, they’ll they’ll charge you a late fee. If you don’t pay your rent on time, if you don’t you’ll get evicted.”

If you have any issues making payments on time, talk to your Rep. Payee, a trusted family member or a reliable friend. Never share your personal financial information with people you do not trust.

What resources are available to ensure your rent is paid on time?

Amy: “You talk to your manager, you talk to Catholic Community Services to help you out, and see if they can, so they can help you get a caseworker and help you find a good management of how you can be able to make sure you pay your rent on time. It’s having a Rep. Payee.”

George: “We usually call my sister or my sister let me know when they’re paid because she gets a check printed of them so she knows that they’ve received it.”

Evictions

What are some reasons I could get evicted?

Amy: “You can get evicted if you don’t pay rent on time and they have a dirty house.”

Glenn: “Having people in your apartment that you’re not supposed to have, making noise.”

Lonney: “Too loud, music up too loud, parties.”

What happens if you receive an eviction notice?

Amy: “What would I do? I’d talk to my caseworker. I’d talk to the apartment property manager. I’d talk to my Rep. Payee, and tell them what’s going on and I tell them the situation and they can help you handle it.”

Be sure that you know the rules and policies for the location you live at. If you are unsure, call your landlord or property manager.

Stay calm if you receive a late notice, or eviction notice. Contact your Rep. Payee or main caregiver to figure out how best to move forward.

We hope that the information and resources provided in this video have empowered you to take the next steps in finding the perfect home for yourself, your loved ones, or those you advocate for.

Remember, finding suitable housing is a process that requires patience, persistence and collaboration.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the organizations and support networks mentioned in this video as they are dedicated to assisting you on your housing quest.

To learn more about the resources, support, and tips shared in this video, visit iddhousinghelp.org or lanecounty.org.