Keeping up with rent is one of the most stressful financial challenges a household can face. If you’re behind on rent, at risk of eviction, or paying more than you can afford, several programs exist to help – including federal housing vouchers, emergency rental assistance, and local nonprofit resources.
Section 8 / Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher Program – commonly known as Section 8 – is the federal government’s main rental assistance program. It pays a portion of your rent directly to a private landlord, with the tenant paying the difference between the voucher amount and the actual rent.
Vouchers are administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and are limited – most areas have waiting lists that can range from months to several years. However, some PHAs periodically open their waiting lists for new applicants. To apply, contact your local PHA. You can find yours at hud.gov or by calling HUD at 1-800-569-4287.
Income limits are generally 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and priority is typically given to households that are extremely low income (30% of AMI or below), elderly, or disabled.
Public Housing
Public housing is government-owned rental housing available to low-income individuals and families. Rents are set at 30% of household income, making it highly affordable for qualifying applicants. Like vouchers, public housing has waiting lists in many areas. Apply through your local PHA.
Emergency Rental Assistance
If you’re behind on rent now and at risk of eviction, emergency rental assistance programs can help cover past-due amounts quickly. These programs are typically funded through state or local governments and administered through community action agencies, nonprofits, or housing authorities.
Availability and eligibility vary widely. To find emergency help in your area:
- Call 211 – the national social services helpline connects you to local emergency resources
- Visit consumerfinance.gov/renthelp – the CFPB’s rental assistance finder
- Contact your local community action agency or housing authority
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties
LIHTC-funded apartment complexes charge below-market rents for qualifying tenants. Unlike vouchers, you apply directly to the property rather than through a housing agency. These units are often easier to access than vouchers because they don’t require waiting on a PHA list – though individual properties may have their own waiting lists.
Search for affordable housing in your area at affordablehousingonline.com or through HUD’s resource locator at hud.gov.
Assistance for Seniors and People with Disabilities
Additional housing programs target specific populations:
- Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly – HUD-funded housing specifically for seniors 62+ with very low incomes
- Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities – Subsidized housing linked to supportive services
- USDA Rural Housing Programs – Rental assistance for low-income households in rural areas
Tenant Rights During Hardship
If you’re behind on rent, knowing your rights can buy you important time. Eviction is a legal process that takes time – typically 30-90 days depending on your state. During that process, you may have options to negotiate a payment plan, access emergency assistance, or appeal.
Legal aid organizations provide free assistance to low-income tenants facing eviction. Find your local legal aid office at lawhelp.org.
Find Other Programs You May Qualify For
People who qualify for rental assistance often qualify for other programs too – food assistance, utility help, healthcare, and more. A free benefits screener can help you find everything at once.
See what assistance you may qualify for.
Use the Benefits Finder tool to check rental help, food assistance, utility programs, and more based on your household situation.
Money Instructor does not provide legal or financial advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only. Housing program availability, income limits, and waiting list status change. Contact your local housing authority or HUD for current information.