Rent Well is designed to help people build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become successful renters. Whether you are looking for housing now, preparing for the future, or working with a service provider, we encourage you to review the eligibility requirements below before enrolling.

Who Can Take Rent Well?

Anyone who meets the program eligibility requirements may participate in a Rent Well course. Rent Well is offered both as an online eCourse and as instructor-led classes through participating organizations across Oregon and Washington.

Some organizations may have additional enrollment requirements based on their own funding sources or the populations they serve. If you are registering through a local agency, they will let you know if any additional requirements apply.

Income Eligibility

Rent Well is intended to serve households with incomes at or below 60% of the HUD CBDG HOME Income Limits for that year, based on the county where you currently live.

To help determine whether you qualify, use the Income Eligibility Calculator below.

[Income Eligibility Calculator Coming Soon]

If you are unsure whether you qualify, don’t worry. Many students are uncertain about their eligibility. Your local Rent Well instructor or referring agency can help determine whether you meet the income requirements before you begin the course.

Other Eligibility Requirements

In addition to meeting the income guidelines, students should generally:

  • Have at least one barrier to renting.
  • Be a resident of the state in which you are trying to take the course (Oregon or Washington).
  • Be of lease sign age, or the age required by the participating organization.
  • Be willing to actively participate in the course and complete all required assignments and activities before the course deadline.
  • Have access to the internet and a computer, tablet, or smartphone if taking the online eCourse.

Taking an In-Person Rent Well Class

Instructor-led Rent Well classes are offered by certified Rent Well instructors throughout Oregon and Washington. Most classes are free and offered only to current or former participants of the partner organizations that are hosting the class. Some may choose to host public classes and/or charge a fee of up to $60/person.

Classes may include discussions, group activities, guest speakers, and opportunities to ask your instructor questions directly.

Availability, schedules, and registration procedures vary by organization. Some agencies may prioritize enrollment for clients they currently serve or individuals referred through partner organizations.

Taking the Rent Well eCourse

The Rent Well eCourse allows eligible students to complete the curriculum online at their own pace within 90 days for FREE!

Students enrolling in the eCourse should:

  • Meet the Rent Well income eligibility requirements.
  • Have reliable internet access.
  • Have an active email address.
  • Be comfortable using basic online learning tools.
  • Complete all required lessons, quizzes, and activities before the course deadline.

Not Sure if You Qualify?

If you are uncertain whether you meet the eligibility requirements, we encourage you to reach out to the organization offering the class or contact the Rent Well team. We are happy to help answer questions and connect you with available options.

Our goal is to make Rent Well accessible to as many eligible renters as possible while ensuring the program meets the requirements of its funding partners.