How to Handle a Family Facing Eviction

A step-by-step guide to protecting your family and finding solutions when facing eviction.

1. Take immediate action. Read your eviction notice carefully and note all important dates, especially your court date if one is listed. Contact your landlord immediately to discuss the situation - sometimes payment plans or other arrangements can stop the eviction process. Document everything in writing, including phone calls, emails, and any agreements you make. Don't ignore the situation or hope it will go away, as this will only make things worse.
2. Know your rights and get legal help. Contact a tenant's rights organization or legal aid society in your area for free advice. Many cities have tenant hotlines you can call. Learn about your local eviction laws, as some places require specific notice periods or have protections for families with children. If you have a court date, attend it - not showing up will result in an automatic judgment against you. Consider asking the court for more time if you need it to find housing or resolve the issue.
3. Explore financial assistance. Contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) for local rental assistance programs. Many communities have emergency funds to help families avoid eviction. Reach out to local churches, nonprofits, and community organizations that may offer financial help. Check if you qualify for government assistance programs. If you've lost income, apply for unemployment benefits or other support programs. Ask family and friends for help if possible - even temporary assistance can buy you time to find a solution.
4. Start looking for new housing immediately. Begin searching for alternative housing right away, even while fighting the eviction. Contact local housing authorities about emergency housing or waiting lists. Look into transitional housing programs for families. Research temporary options like extended-stay motels if needed. Ask friends and family if you can stay with them temporarily. Keep a list of homeless shelters in your area as a last resort - family shelters often have resources to help you find permanent housing quickly.
5. Protect your children's stability. Talk to your children in age-appropriate ways about what's happening, focusing on the steps you're taking to solve the problem. Contact their school counselor or social worker for support and to ensure they can continue attending school even if you move. Keep important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and school records in a safe, portable place. Maintain routines as much as possible to provide emotional stability. Consider temporary arrangements with relatives or friends if it would help your children stay in their current school.
6. Document and prepare for all outcomes. Take photos of your belongings and their condition. Keep receipts for any moving or storage expenses. If eviction proceeds, understand the timeline and your rights regarding your personal property. Some areas require landlords to store your belongings for a certain period. Have a backup plan for where you and your family will go if you must leave. Pack essential items including medications, important documents, and items your children need for comfort.