Housing is a fundamental need, and when you're struggling to keep a roof over your head, it's important to know that help is available. This comprehensive guide covers emergency rental assistance, long-term housing programs, and resources to prevent homelessness.
If you're facing eviction within the next few days, take immediate action:
- Contact your local emergency rental assistance program immediately
- Call 211 for urgent housing resources
- Reach out to local legal aid for eviction defense
- Contact your landlord to discuss payment plans
Emergency Rental Assistance Programs
Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)
The Emergency Rental Assistance program helps eligible households pay rent, utilities, and other housing-related costs. This federal program is administered locally and can provide significant financial relief.
- Past due rent (up to 18 months)
- Future rent payments (up to 3 months)
- Utility bills and arrearages
- Moving expenses and security deposits
- Internet service for remote work/school
Local Emergency Assistance
Many cities and counties have their own emergency rental assistance programs with different eligibility requirements and faster processing times than federal programs.
Long-Term Housing Assistance Programs
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8) helps low-income families afford decent, safe housing in the private market. Participants pay about 30% of their income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest.
- Find your local Public Housing Authority (PHA)
- Apply when the waiting list is open (check regularly)
- Complete the application with required documentation
- Wait for your name to come up on the waiting list
- Attend eligibility interview and housing briefing
- Search for housing that accepts vouchers
Note: Waiting lists can be long (sometimes years), so apply as soon as possible.
Public Housing
Public housing provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, elderly, and persons with disabilities. Rent is typically 30% of the family's adjusted gross income.
Project-Based Rental Assistance
These programs provide rental assistance for specific housing developments. Unlike Section 8 vouchers, the assistance stays with the property rather than the tenant.
Specialized Housing Programs
Veterans Housing Programs
Veterans have access to specialized housing programs including HUD-VASH (combines rental assistance with case management), Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), and VA home loans.
Housing for People with Disabilities
Specialized programs provide accessible housing and support services for people with disabilities, including Section 811 supportive housing and state-specific programs.
Senior Housing Programs
Seniors (62+) can access age-restricted public housing, Section 202 supportive housing, and various state-funded senior housing programs.
Transitional and Emergency Housing
Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters provide immediate, temporary housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Most shelters also connect residents with services to help them find permanent housing.
Transitional Housing Programs
Transitional housing provides temporary housing (typically 6 months to 2 years) combined with supportive services to help people transition to permanent housing.
Rapid Rehousing
Rapid rehousing programs provide short-term rental assistance and services to help people experiencing homelessness move quickly into permanent housing.
Homelessness Prevention Resources
How to Apply for Housing Assistance
Required Documentation
Most housing assistance programs require similar documentation:
- Photo identification for all household members
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for children
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters, tax returns)
- Bank statements
- Lease agreement or eviction notice
- Utility bills or shut-off notices
Application Tips
- Apply early: Many programs have limited funding and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Be thorough: Complete applications fully and provide all requested documentation to avoid delays.
- Follow up: Check on your application status regularly and respond quickly to requests for additional information.
- Apply to multiple programs: Don't put all your hopes in one program—apply to all programs you're eligible for.
Finding Local Housing Resources
211: Dial 2-1-1 for local housing resources
HUD: Visit hud.gov to find your local PHA
Continuum of Care: Find your local homeless services coordinator
Legal Aid: Get help with eviction defense and tenant rights
Housing Counseling: HUD-approved counseling agencies
Salvation Army: Emergency assistance programs
Catholic Charities: Housing and financial assistance
Local Churches: Emergency assistance funds
Housing assistance can be complex to navigate, but help is available. Don't hesitate to reach out to multiple resources and ask for help understanding the application process. Housing counselors and social workers are there to guide you through the system and help you find the assistance you need.