Community Services

Albany CARES offers assistance accessing resources and services.  

Assistance applying for:
Affordable housing and local parcel tax exemptions

Direct referrals to:  
City program for unhoused residents
Rent Review Program and counseling on landlord/tenant Issues 

Information about:
Legal assistance agencies, utility payment assistance, medical, dental and mental health programs, and much more

Learn more about Albany CARES.

The City of Albany’s Project HOPE provides outreach, case management, and rapid re-housing services to individuals experiencing homelessness, using a Housing First approach to prioritize stable housing without preconditions. The program connects individuals with rental assistance, supportive services, and landlord partnerships to ensure long-term housing stability.

Learn more about Homeless Outreach & Engagement.

The City of Albany is utilizing a portion of its American Rescue Plan Act Funds (ARPA) to assist income eligible Albany tenants who are facing a temporary financial setback.

You may be eligible for one-time financial assistance if you are an Albany renter and you:

1.  Are at risk of becoming delinquent on your rent, or
2.  Have fallen behind on your rent since the Alameda County eviction moratorium ended on April 29, 2023.

Learn more about Financial Assistance for Renters

The City of Albany provides parcel tax exemptions for eligible homeowners and renter rebates on six qualifying parcel taxes. Applicants must meet very low-income requirements based on federal guidelines and reapply annually. The 2025 application is now available, with a deadline of December 31, 2025. For more information and to access applications, follow this link.

For questions or assistance, contact Albany CARES at albanycares@albanyca.org or call (510) 524-9283.

On June 4, 2018 the Albany City Council approved an ordinance that added Section 5-25 “Rent Review" to the Albany Municipal Code establishing a Rent Review Program. The ordinance regulates most residential rental units in Albany and provides a mediation process for qualifying rent increases. Landlord participation in the rent review process is mandatory, but all recommendations are non-binding.    

The Rent Review Program was directed by the City Council on June 4, 2018. The Rent Review Ordinance and associated Rent Review Program will be effective November 2, 2018. Learn More about Rent Review.