The California Apartment Association has endorsed Milpitas’s recently announced rental assistance program, highlighting it as an example of effective housing policy. 

“We commend the Milpitas City Council for taking meaningful steps to assist tenants by allocating rent relief funding to those in need,” said Anil Babbar, senior vice president of local public affairs for CAA. “By leveraging proven approaches like direct rental assistance instead of turning to rent control—an option the council wisely rejected—Milpitas is addressing housing challenges while ensuring the continued stability of its rental housing market.” 

The state-funded initiative allocates $700,000 to assist qualifying households with rental payments. Under the program’s guidelines, eligible tenants can receive up to $5,000 per year in housing assistance, with payments made directly to property owners. The city anticipates serving approximately 140 households through this effort. 

Forward, a program management organization specializing in resource distribution, will oversee the application process and fund disbursement. Applications are currently being accepted through December 2025. 

Eligible recipients must demonstrate: 

  • At least six months of Milpitas residency 
  • A valid lease agreement with a verified landlord 
  • Income at or below 120% of Santa Clara County’s HCD limit ($221,150 annually for a household of four) 

Property owners and tenants interested in participating can find details at the city’s rental assistance webpage or contact the housing office at (408) 586-3222. Applicants will need to submit documentation including income verification and lease agreements. Special provisions are available for residents facing homelessness. 

According to housing officials, this direct-payment approach has proven successful in other municipalities, reducing administrative complications for property owners while effectively addressing rental arrears. The program aims to streamline the process of distributing assistance, ensuring timely support for both tenants and landlords.