How can I help someone who has received an eviction notice?

Possible eviction is scary for everyone. If someone you are in a relationship with has received an eviction-notice, don't panic - use this article to help organize your thoughts on how best to support them. If they haven't already received a notice, but are worried about possible eviction down the road, check out this article on preventing eviction before it starts.

Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed.

Ask Coaching Questions

Seek Clarity:

1. What type of landlord do you have (public/private)?
2. Is their rent subsidized?
3. Have you received an eviction notice?
4. What is the stated reason for eviction?
5. How much do you need to pay by when?
6. What is the consequence if you don’t meet that deadline?
7. Who is communicating with them about deadlines and consequences?
8. Do you want to contest/fight the eviction?

Get to the Root:

1. What got you behind in payments?
2. Has there been a change in your income or expenses?
3. Are you likely to be in the same position or a different position next month?

Ask About Options:

1. Who have you asked for help?
2. What have you tried so far?
3. Have you experienced this before? If so, how did you handle it?
4. Do you know anyone who has experienced this before? If so, how did they handle it?
5. Do you have any friends or family who could lend you money or who you could stay with?
6. How much could you spend on rent this month?

Take Steps to Advocate

If renting public or subsidized housing:

1. If a decrease in income or an increase in expenses is projected to last more than 30 days, report this change to the Housing Authority of Baltimore City.
2. Click here to know your rights.

Private Landlord:

1. Search for record and court date in Maryland Case Search System to check the status.
2. Ask your landlord for more time moving out to give yourself time to find a safe place to live (this can help the landlord avoid court).
3. Click here to know your rights.

Fighting eviction:

1. Public Justice Center: 410-625-9409
2. Maryland Legal Aid: 800-999-8904
3. Civil Justice Network: 443-853-1011

Connect to Resources

Specific advice or information:

1. Was I properly served? What happens next?
2. Review Thread’s Eviction Guide
3. Baltimore District Court Eviction Prevention Guide

Addressing an immediate need:

1. Call 211 - ask about eviction prevention
2. Call the local DSS Office: and ask about the following programs:
   • Homelessness Prevention Program
   • Emergency Assistance for Families and Children
3. Reach out to the Maryland Department of Human Services or Social Services - call 443-423-6400
4. Reach out to the Mayor’s Office of Children and Family Success - call 410-545-1938
5. Call organizations and ask about “eviction prevention programs”
   • Bon Secours Community Works: 410-801-5100
   • St. Vincent De Paul: 410-662-0500
   • Samaritan Community, Inc.: 410-669-1229
   • Franciscan Center: 410-467-5340 or info@fcbmore.org
6. Review this list of organizations that provide rental assistance and call each of them to see what you may be eligible for. 

Attempting to prevent future crises:

Get screened for public benefits at CASH Campaign MD by completing this intake form