For residents struggling to pay rent, emergency rental assistance in Michigan can be a lifeline. Some pandemic-era programs have ended since the height of the crisis, but there is still help available. Find out what help is available and get tips on how to apply to emergency rental assistance in Michigan.

State Emergency Relief (SER)

The State Emergency Relief program of Michigan provides funding to families facing threats to their health and safety. This includes help with rent, utilities, and other essentials. This program can also help homeowners avoid foreclosure and in some cases, cover home repairs. Applicants must demonstrate an urgent need to qualify. Be prepared to show how your health and safety are directly impacted and what funds would be used for.

Eligibility Requirements:

Income at at below 150% of the federal poverty level
Proof of Michigan residency
Proof of urgent need

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Emergency Relief

Michigan families and individuals who need immediate assistance paying bills can get help with rent, household bills and other necessary services. This program helps pay heating expenses or cover moving expenses for residents who have been evicted. Rental subsidies for families facing housing insecurity are also available. MDHHS could help you stay in your home or stay warm over the winter.

Eligibility Requirements:

Proof of Michigan residency
Income requirements by household size
Proof of emergency circumstances

Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Emergency Housing Assistance

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority or MSHDA has several programs to help Michigan residents avoid eviction and access to affordable and safe housing. These include the Emergency Solutions Grant (EGS) program and the Homeless Assistance Recovery Program (HARP). Both programs aim to stabilize housing for Michigan residents. If you’re facing the loss of your home, contact the MSHDA to find out which programs you qualify for.

Eligibility Requirements:

Available to Michigan residents
Income requirements vary by program

Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs

Michigan’s Continuum of Care programs are local support networks that provide services to people facing homelessness or those who have lost their housing. CoC programs offer resources like emergency rental assistance, emergency shelter, and support services that address the causes of housing insecurities. Each program is unique, so contact your local CoC administrators for the most up to date information on program benefits and eligibility.

CoCs in Michigan

Detroit Continuum of Care: Provides emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing in Detroit.
Oakland County Continuum of Care: Offers residents of Oakland County rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention.
Washtenaw County Continuum of Care: Focuses on self-sufficiency support and housing stability in Washtenaw County.

Section 8 Housing

Section 8 Housing is a federally funded program that provides access to safe and affordable housing. The program provides vouchers that cover a portion of rent based on family size and income. With housing vouchers, families are free to choose single family homes, apartments, condos, and other options.

Eligibility Requirements:

Income at or below 50% of the local median income
U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
Background checks

Temporary Cash Assistance

Temporary Cash Assistance is available to Michigan residents who are pregnant or have minor children and meet income requirements. The program also helps families with minor children access, job skill training, child care, transportation to work and more. Michigan residents may receive a lifetime total of 60 cash payments to help with rent, utilities, groceries, and more.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must have a minor child at home or a child over 18 who is currently enrolled in high school
Income requirements are based on ages and number of children
Open to Michigan residents

Why Emergency Rental Assistance Matters

Programs that help Michigan residents and families stay in their homes have a deep and lasting impact on communities. When residents face losing their homes, they leave behind their schools, neighbors, and the relationships they’ve built. By providing emergency assistance, families get to stay in their homes and remain in the communities they connect with. These programs help people go from struggling to pay their bills to thriving.

Finding Emergency Rental Assistance in Michigan

Michigan emergency rental assistance has a lasting impact on local communities where housing instability has become a real issue. Get to know the programs that can help you pay your rent and keep a roof over your head.