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Emergency Rental Assistance

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Alabama Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Though we’re a few years removed from the COVID-19 pandemic, its lasting effects are still impacting Alabama families. Many in the state are still struggling to get back on their feet, especially when it comes to meeting their rent obligations. Because lawmakers recognize the critical need, several organizations have created Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAPs). These Alabama-centered programs help support residents who struggle to make ends meet. Emergency rental assistance in Alabama is complicated, so it's best to get familiar with your options if you find yourself in need.Understanding Emergency Rental Assistance in AlabamaEmergency Rental Assistance Programs aim to offer financial aid to renters who have run into financial setbacks. These include job loss, income reduction, and emergencies that interfere with covering housing costs. ERAP programs prevent evictions and relieve Alabama residents of the financial burdens they're struggling with.Several programs and organizations exist to help Alabama residents with rental assistance. If you're looking for help, consider reaching out to one of these program offices.Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) AlabamaThe Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Alabama program provides financial relief to renters facing hardship. The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) administers this aid to residents struggling with housing-related expenses. Through ERA Alabama, renters who meet the qualification criteria (including housing instability or a possible eviction ahead) can receive the support they need to remain housed.Alabama emergency rental assistance can differ from place to place, as some areas have their own dedicated programs. These include the city of Birmingham, Tuscaloosa County, Mobile County, and Baldwin County. Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)Jefferson County offers its residents access to ERAP, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program in the area. Like other emergency rental assistance in Alabama, this program is overseen by the AHFA. It's designed to help renters manage the economic struggles that have arisen, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. ERAP provides financial aid to eligible individuals and households to cover rent arrears, rent payments, and even utility costs. The program works with landlords and tenants alike to ensure that stable housing remains a reality for vulnerable people.Emergency Solutions GrantThe Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program isn't limited to Alabama, but it's available in the state. This federal program supports individuals and families who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. In Alabama, ESG funds go to local governments and various nonprofits so that they can provide emergency services. Such services include emergency shelter, rehousing assistance, financial services, and other supportive aid. ESG programs aim to address immediate housing needs so that Alabama residents can have stable housing.Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV)HUD and Section 8 also offer Emergency Housing Vouchers for qualifying situations. These federal rental assistance vouchers are provided by local public housing agencies. They aim to assist both individuals and families who live in unstable housing situations. In Alabama, EHVs offer rental subsidies to households in need, which enables them to secure affordable housing. Community Action Agencies (CAA)Several Community Action Agencies (CAAs) extend Alabama's efforts to provide low-income families with stable homes. These organizations (usually nonprofits) operate across the state and offer a range of helpful services. Services may include emergency rental assistance, utility assistance, and housing counseling. CAAs work with government agencies and other charitable organizations to combat poverty, and homelessness by extension. Many of these organizations play an important role in ensuring that Alabama residents can afford rent.Some local organizations include the Community Action Association Alabama and the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama.Applying for Emergency Rental AssistanceIf you're interested in applying for emergency rental assistance in Alabama, there are a few steps you should take. Research and identify the programs designed to address your needs. Then, review the eligibility requirements to make sure your family qualifies for the program's benefits. From there, you'll need to complete the emergency rental assistance Alabama application form. Proceed slowly to ensure you don't forget any points or sections. Be sure to provide any supporting documents and maintain regular communication with your caseworker. The application and approval process may include some back-and-forth, so stay on top of any updates for quicker processing.If you're struggling to find the right program, visit your local AHFA office, or a nearby Department of Human Resources. A caseworker should be able to help point you in the right direction or make recommendations that apply to your situation.Look for Emergency Rental Assistance in AlabamaPrograms offering emergency rental assistance in Alabama can be helpful for families facing housing insecurity. By being aware of your options, you can pursue the assistance you need to maintain stable housing and overcome hardships. For more on emergency rental assistance, explore the resources available on the Affordable Housing Hub. Take a look at open waiting lists, assistance programs, and much more.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Alaska Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Alaska is home to a population of over 700,000 people who deal with extreme weather conditions. With this relatively low population, Alaska has one of the highest homeless rates in the country at 31.7 out of every 10K people, a 10.43% poverty level, and a 6.9% unemployment rate. To provide solutions, many programs offer help with emergency rental assistance in Alaska.Rental Assistance Programs in AlaskaNumerous options exist for emergency assistance from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation and the Association of Alaska Housing Authorities. These programs are available to homeless, veterans, elderly, and low-income individuals and families to provide safe, clean, and affordable housing. Senior and Accessible HousingThe program offers one-bedroom apartments with access to an elevator. Some of the requirements for the program include:Residents must be 62 or older.Disabled with income 80% or less of the area median income.You should follow the instructions carefully when filling out the application.New Start VoucherThis rental assistance program is for Alaskan residents nearing the end of their stabilization and Recovery Program. It is a referral-based program where residents who make 50% or less of the median income can apply.Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing ProgramVeterans and their families deserve to live in safe, stable housing. This emergency rental assistance program in Alaska helps homeless veterans and their families pay a portion of their rent. When it comes to applying for the program, residents must meet the following requirements:Must have an income of 50% or less of the median area income.Apply at any Alaska Housing location.Referred by Alaska VA Healthcare System to Alaska HousingFor immediate assistance, contact the Veterans Crisis Hotline.Empowering Choice Housing ProgramSuppose you earn 50% or less of the area median income and are a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, etc.. In that case, this referral-based program can provide emergency rental assistance in Alaska. The resident must contact a participating Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault member to be referred.Association of Alaska Housing AuthoritiesThe Association of Alaska Housing Authorities is a group that helps different communities throughout Alaska. It is working toward creating more safe and affordable housing solutions for residents. Many members also offer other services, including energy, weatherization, and home rehabilitation programs.Emergency Rental Assistance in Anchorage, AKMany programs discussed previously offer rental assistance in Anchorage, Alaska. However, one program in particular has yet to be addressed, and it provides many great assistance options to Anchorage residents. The Salvation Army: McKinnell House is located in Anchorage, AK, and offers emergency rental assistance, among many other programs. One such program is the Emergency Shelter for Homeless Families, which offers:24-hour stays.Nutritious meals.Case managementLifeskills developmentIn addition to emergency shelter, McKinnell House offers food and family services.CounselingResidents can talk to one of the counselors about life and spiritual issues. Spirituality is essential to The Salvation Army, which gives spiritual residents a place to go outside the church and be understood.Food BoxesResidents who are short on food can go to McKinnell House for prepared food boxes to help meet their nutritional needs. Residents and other organizations donate many of these items.Clothing VouchersThe Salvation Army receives clothing donations and hands out vouchers to needy families so they can shop for clothes. These clothes vary in size, so you can find what you need for anyone in the family.Utility AssistanceWith the severe weather conditions in Alaska, heat and electricity are essential. The Salvation Army McKinnel House offers utility assistance to avoid shut-off notices.Rental AssistanceAnother program The Salvation Army McKinnell House offers is emergency rental assistance in Anchorage, AK. You can ask for assistance if you need to catch up on rent or need help paying it.Find Emergency Rental Assistance in Alaska TodayIt is difficult to ask for help, especially when you need it, but there are solutions to your problems. There are numerous options for emergency rental assistance in Alaska. At Affordable Housing Hub, we make it easier to find what you need.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Arizona Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Arizona is home to both desert land and vast forests. With a population of nearly 8 million residents, many options are available for emergency rental assistance in Arizona. Understanding the forms of help available and how to apply for Arizona emergency rental assistance is important.Arizona Emergency Rental AssistanceFinding and asking for help can be mentally and emotionally challenging. However, with the proper research, securing emergency rental assistance in Arizona can be easy. Arizona Department of Economic SecurityThe Arizona Department of Economic Security's goal is to assist individuals and families in need. They offer many programs to help Arizona communities, including:Food AssistanceThe food assistance program aims to help individuals with food security through several options.Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).Commodity Senior Food Program (CSFP).WIC Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (FMNP).These are just a few of the food assistance options available. It is important to research each program and apply for the one that best fits your family's needs.Medical AssistanceThe Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) provides Medicaid insurance qualifying applicants based on income, Arizona residency, or pregnancy status to those in need. You can apply for this program online, in person, by mail, or by fax. When applying, make sure you have all the appropriate documentation, including but not limited to:Proof of citizenship for each applicant.Social Security Number for each applicant.Proof of all income for the household.Birth certificates for each applicant.Alien Registration CardsAfter you submit your application, a phone interview will be conducted to discuss the information you submitted and determine if any other documentation is needed.Arizona Rental Assistance ProgramThis emergency rental assistance program in Arizona is there to help low-income families with children and senior citizens avoid housing insecurity. To qualify for this program, you must meet specific criteria, including but not limited to:The applicant must be a tenant.Experiencing housing insecurity or eviction.Have a child under 18 in the home.A senior over 60 in the home.Other eligibility criteria apply, so make sure to do your research before applying. You can apply for the program online or in person.Low Income Home Energy Assistance ProgramThe Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is available to low-income residents who need immediate help with utility bills. You can see if you qualify by taking the questionnaire on the website or by calling the phone number provided.Tempe Community Action AgencyThe Tempe Community Action Agency wants every person in the community to be happy and healthy. They aim to end poverty and help people secure safe, stable housing. They have many programs to help those in need, including:Food SecurityTempe, AZ, is home to one of the largest food pantries in the community. On certain days and times of the week, residents can visit the pantry and receive emergency food help twice a month. Bring your photo ID and proof of Tempe or Fountain Hills residency.Housing StabilityThe Tempe Community Action Agency offers multiple programs to help low-income families with utility assistance. Funds are available to residents working with select utility providers:Arizona Public Service (APS).Salt River Project (SRP).Southwest Gas.If you use one of the providers listed above, are low-income, and the crisis is emergent, help is available.Maricopa County Assistance ProgramsAs federal funding for Maricopa County’s Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program has ended, the county has formed new programs to help residents with their needs. Housing Stability Rental Assistance ProgramThe Housing Stability Rental Assistance program is an emergency rental assistance program in Arizona that helps low-income residents with up to 2 months of payments for past due rent payments, late fees, or future payments to keep them in stable, secure housing. To qualify for the program, you must meet specific criteria.Live in Maricopa County, except Glendale, Mesa, or Phoenix.Risk of homelessness, instability, or financial hardship.Income is 80% or less of the area median income.To establish eligibility, the resident must bring the proper documentation.Utility AssistanceThe Human Services Department’s Community Resilience Division helps Maricopa County residents with utility assistance. The applicant must live in Maricopa County, except Glendale, Mesa, and Phoenix, and income for the 30 days prior must be 60% or less of the state median income. You can apply online or in person.Coconino County Assistance ProgramsCoconino County also offers many programs to help residents, including help paying utility bills, rental assistance, vouchers for clothing, bus passes, food assistance, and more. Eligibility requirements may vary per program. However, consistent eligibility requirements include the number of people in the household, household income, and problems the household is experiencing. Find Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in ArizonaThere are many options available for emergency rental assistance in Arizona. At Affordable Housing Hub, we are dedicated to connecting you to the resources you need as you find the right solutions for your family.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Arkansas Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

COVID-19 changed the world and forced most of us to rely on others. The end of COVID-19 federal funding caused many of the emergency rental assistance programs in Arkansas to shut down, leaving many people with choices to make. However, numerous programs are still available to help Arkansas residents in their time of need. Central Delta Community Action AgencyOne option for emergency rental assistance in Arkansas is the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) from the Central Delta Community Action Agency. The money a resident receives can be used for several issues they may face, including utility payments, rent payments, minor home repairs and appliances, car maintenance, or other issues approved by CSBG regulations. To quality, you must meet the following criteria:Proof of emergency.Be a resident of certain counties in Arkansas.125% or below the federal poverty line.Provide required documentation.The Central Delta Community Action Agency offers this program to empower low-income individuals and families by building stronger and healthier communities.Our Healthy CommunitiesThis non-profit community action agency provides numerous programs for Benton, Carroll, and Madison counties in Arkansas. WeatherizationThis program helps low-income families make their homes more efficient regarding utilities costs. A checklist is provided with the application so you have all the proper documentation before handing in your application. These requirements include but are not limited to:The completed weatherization application.Social Security award letter.Last four paystubs of anyone over 18.Completed lessor agreement if renting.They may require more information after reviewing your application.Water AssistanceThe cities of Rogers and Gravette partner with Our Healthy Communities to assist low-income families that need help paying their water bills to avoid shut-off. When applying for the program, you must submit the following information:Shut-off notice.Each member of the household's social security number.Each member of the household's birth date.Proof of household income.These items must be submitted so that your application can be filed correctly.Economic Opportunity AgencyThe Economic Opportunity Agency provides residents with The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) to help low-income families with healthy food. They hope to provide healthy living alternatives to families within Arkansas. Partnering with Bread of Life in Springdale and LifeSource in Fayetteville, the Economic Opportunity Agency distributes food supplies and has a mobile food pantry.Community Action Program for Central ArkansasThe Community Action Program for Central Arkansas offers several special programs to families with incomes at or above 125% of the federal poverty level.The Community Blocks GrantThese grants include emergency medication assistance and emergency disaster assistance. Each program has its own application criteria. For example, the emergency medication assistance program does not provide narcotic or pain medication. For the emergency disaster assistance program, the resident must have a Red Cross Voucher, a referral, or a verifiable emergency.Emergency Solutions GrantThe Emergency Solutions Grant has four components, three of which do not have income requirements. It is aimed at individuals and families who are at risk or homeless.BRADThe Black River Area Development Corporation (BRAD) offers several emergency rental assistance programs in Arkansas. Both programs are provided to low—or very low-income individuals and families.Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThis program offers government-subsidized rental housing to qualifying low-income individuals and families. Applicants wait until assistance is available, during which they will be notified, given a voucher, and can start looking for a qualifying home. The house must meet the Housing Quality Standards for it to qualify.Home TBRA ProgramThis program is an extension of the Housing Choice Voucher Program, and applicants must meet the same criteria of being very low-income. Qualifying applicants will be housed in homes from the private market. Each home is recertified yearly according to the Housing Quality Standards rules and regulations.Crawford-Sabastian Community Development CouncilAn emergency rental assistance program in Arkansas is also available through Family Services at the Crawford-Sebastian Community Development Council. This rental assistance program is available on a first-come-first-serve basis to qualifying applicants. Individuals must meet income guidelines to be eligible for rental assistance help.Find Emergency Rental Assistance in Arkansas TodayEven though COVID-19 federal funding is over, assistance is still available. You can get help paying rent, finding housing, food, or utility assistance.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

California Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Realizing that rent will be due soon and you don’t have enough money to pay it is distressing. In California, the state gave out over $4 billion to help people make rent when times were tough during the COVID-19 pandemic. While that specific program is no longer available, if you need help from an emergency rental assistance program in California, you still have options.From Orange County to San Francisco County and everywhere in between, there are people who will help you keep a roof over your head and work toward a more financially secure future.CalWORKs California Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThis program provides emergency rental assistance as well as support for food, utilities, and other essentials for California families in need. There is a welfare office that can help you apply for CalWORKs in every county. This program will give you cash aid that you can use for your most pressing needs – rent included.The amount of financial assistance you can get from CalWORKs is determined based on several factors, including:Whether your family includes people with special needs.How many people in your family are eligible based on income.Your overall household income.If your household includes children who have been deprived of support or care due to a parent’s absence, disability, or death.If your household’s principal earner is unemployed.If you’re curious whether or not your household qualifies for this program, you can contact your county’s Social Services for help.Emergency Rental Assistance in Orange County, CAOrange County offers its own emergency rental assistance programs tailored to the needs of its residents. This housing assistance is funded by the US US Department of Treasury and managed by local government. It aims to support low-income households that have been adversely affected by the pandemic.As with most local ERAP programs, services offered include rental assistance and utility payments to help keep people in their houses with functional services, such as water, electricity, gas, and more.To apply for the Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OC ERAP) you will need to apply through the Orange County Housing Authority online portal. Required documentation to receive assistance will include proof of your income, a copy of the rental agreement, and any evidence you can provide related to proving your financial hardship and relationship to the pandemic.Riverside County Housing Support ProgramThis program is available to Riverside County residents who are struggling to make rent. The Housing Support Program can be used in addition to support from CalWORKs to help Riverside residents afford all of their basic needs.Whether you’re concerned about an upcoming rent payment or already close to eviction, this Housing Support Program can help you make ends meet. You can find out if your household qualifies by getting in touch with them via email at hsp@rivco.org or via phone call at 833-391-0506.Rental Assistance Programs in San Diego CountyThe Housing Authority of the County of San Diego (HACSD) offers a multitude of rental assistance options depending on your unique circumstances. You may qualify for assistance if you earn less than 50% of the median income in your area, even if that wouldn’t qualify as low income in other areas. Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDSThis program provides housing assistance to people living with HIV and AIDS. If you or anyone in your household have AIDS or HIV and are low income, make sure you check the box for Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) when you apply for rental assistance.Veterans Affairs Supportive HousingThis program provides rental assistance to qualified homeless veterans. If you are already behind on rent and facing eviction, and you or anyone in your household are a military veteran, this program may be able to help you avoid homelessness and get back on your feet.Income-Based Rental AssistanceIf you qualify based on income but don’t have any veterans or AIDS and HIV patients in your household, you can still apply for the San Diego County income-based rental assistance program. The highest priority for these programs goes to residents with:Elderly household membersDisabled household membersJobs that have them working 32+ hours per weekA history of homelessnessDependent childrenEven if you don’t meet the criteria for highest priority, however, you can still receive assistance based on income. You can find out if you qualify by applying for rental assistance.Other Local Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in CaliforniaAs a vast and diverse state, California offers many different rental assistance programs, which vary based on jurisdiction. Some of the largest, and therefore most impactful programs include those based in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Riverside counties. The specific agency handling cases in each region can vary depending on the structure of the local government. Los Angeles County Development AuthoritySan Francisco Human Services Agency.City of Palmade Tenant-Based Rental AssistanceIf you’re not sure where to look for help in your county, you can use the Affordable Housing Hub search page to find the programs available in your area.Finding and Accessing the Right Program for YouNavigating all the details of getting into an emergency rental assistant program can be challenging. However, California’s emergency rental programs offer vital support for anyone who is facing a time of financial hardship. Whether you are in a major city or a small town, help is available. Document your situation, follow application instructions carefully, and remember that these programs are designed to keep you and your family safe and housed. If you need help figuring out the right next step, reach out to your local agency and get help today.

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance: 2024 Application Guide

The COVID-19 Pandemic has had lasting effects on the economy and housing. Colorado’s emergency rental assistance programs aim to provide financial relief to tenants struggling to make ends meet and pay their rent. These initiatives are supported by federal, state, and local funds and are administered through various agencies and organizations to ensure broad reach and accessibility.The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)A primary resource for Colorado residents is the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Funded by the U.S. Treasury, ERAP provides substantial support to renters facing financial hardships due to the pandemic. The program covers up to 15 months of rent and utility payments, including arrears and future payments, offering critical relief for those most in need.To qualify for ERAP, applicants must meet these specific criteria:Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).Applicants must demonstrate a financial hardship directly or indirectly related to COVID-19.Proof of residency and a valid lease agreement are required.The application process involves submitting an online application along with necessary documentation such as income verification, proof of rental arrears, and identification. Both tenants and landlords can apply, facilitating a collaborative effort to secure housing stability.Colorado Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP)The Colorado Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP), administered by the Colorado Division of Housing, provides another layer of support. EHAP is designed to assist renters who have lost income due to the pandemic and are at risk of eviction.EHAP has similar eligibility criteria to ERAP, focusing on households experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. The application process requires documentation of income loss, proof of tenancy, and the amount of rent owed. Applications can be submitted online, and local agencies are available to assist applicants through the process.Local Assistance ProgramsIn addition to state-administered programs, various municipalities in Colorado offer local rental assistance programs. These programs cater to specific community needs and often provide more tailored support.Denver's Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA)Denver’s Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program offers short-term financial assistance to low- and moderate-income residents facing unexpected financial hardship. TRUA can cover up to six months of rent and utility payments.City of Aurora Rental Assistance ProgramIf you need emergency rental assistance in Aurora CO the city offers a program through House Aurora Partnership. The program uses CARES Act funding from Arapahoe and Adams counties. More information is available through Arapahoe county.Boulder County Housing HelplineBoulder County operates a Housing Helpline that connects residents to emergency rental assistance, housing counseling, and other supportive services. This helpline is a valuable resource for residents navigating housing instability and seeking immediate support.El Paso County's Rent Assistance ProgramEl Paso County’s Rent Assistance Program provides targeted aid to residents at risk of eviction. The program collaborates with local nonprofits and community organizations to offer comprehensive support, including financial aid and case management services.Eviction Prevention and Legal AssistancePreventing evictions is a critical component of Colorado’s housing stability efforts. Several organizations provide legal assistance, mediation services, and counseling to help tenants facing eviction proceedings.Colorado Legal ServicesColorado Legal Services offers free legal aid to low-income residents, helping them understand their rights and navigate eviction processes. This organization plays a crucial role in representing tenants in court and negotiating with landlords.Mediation ServicesMediation programs, such as those provided by the Denver County Court, offer an alternative to eviction by facilitating negotiations between tenants and landlords. These services aim to reach mutually agreeable solutions and keep tenants in their homes.Housing CounselingNonprofits like Brothers Redevelopment, Inc. provide housing counseling to assist tenants with budgeting, understanding their rights, and finding alternative housing options if necessary. These services are essential for maintaining long-term housing stability.The Critical Impact of Rental Assistance ProgramsEmergency rental assistance programs have had a profound impact on Colorado communities. By providing financial relief, these programs help prevent evictions, reduce homelessness, and support economic stability. A study by the Urban Institute indicates that rental assistance not only keeps families housed but also enables them to focus on other critical areas such as employment, education, and health.Challenges and Future DirectionsDespite their successes, rental assistance programs face challenges such as funding limitations, bureaucratic hurdles, and the need for ongoing support. Colorado policymakers and housing advocates are working to address these challenges by advocating for additional funding, simplifying application procedures, and increasing outreach to ensure that all eligible residents can access these vital resources.Getting Emergency Rental Assistance in ColoradoEmergency rental assistance programs in Colorado are essential in supporting residents facing housing insecurity. As these programs continue to evolve, ongoing advocacy and policy innovation will be key to addressing the housing crisis and building a resilient future for all Colorado residents. For more information, see our overview on what to do when you’re struggling to pay rent and learn about other sources of help.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Connecticut Emergency Rental Assistance: 2024 Application Guide

There are several emergency rental assistance programs in Connecticut for residents who struggle with housing insecurity. This challenge is common, especially after the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Overview of Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsConnecticut offers several emergency rental assistance programs designed to prevent evictions and homelessness. These programs are usually funded by federal, state, and local sources. This includes the U.S. Treasury's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) and local agencies administer them and aim to provide timely help to renters in need.UniteCT ProgramOne flagship program in Connecticut is UniteCT. It's a state-run program that gives federal funds to help households that can't pay rent and utilities due to the pandemic. UniteCT provides up to $15,000 in rental assistance and up to $1,500 for electric utilities per household. This financial aid covers both past-due and future rent. It offers a critical lifeline for struggling renters.To qualify for UniteCT, applicants must meet the following criteria:Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).Applicants must demonstrate financial hardship due to COVID-19.Proof of residency and a valid lease agreement are required.The application process is straightforward but requires thorough documentation. Applicants must fill out an online form and also submit income verification and evidence of rental arrears. Landlords are also encouraged to join. Eviction Prevention ServicesIn addition to direct rental assistance, Connecticut offers several eviction prevention services. The Eviction Prevention Fund provides legal aid, mediation programs, and housing counseling to help tenants who are facing eviction.Legal AssistanceOrganizations like Connecticut Legal Services and the New Haven Legal Assistance Association provide free legal help to low-income renters. These agencies help tenants understand their rights and represent them in court and negotiate with landlords to find friendly solutions.Mediation ProgramsThe Connecticut Fair Housing Center provides renters with critical mediation services. Mediation plays a key role in resolving disputes between landlords and tenants. Mediation provides a platform for both parties to discuss their issues with a neutral third party. The goal is to reach a settlement that stops eviction.Housing CounselingNon-profit organizations like the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) offer housing counseling services. These experienced counselors offer personalized advice that covers topics like budgeting, tenant rights, and finding new housing if needed.Local Assistance ProgramsBeyond state-administered initiatives, many municipalities in Connecticut offer their own rental assistance programs. These local programs have more flexible rules and can also provide additional help to residents not covered by state or federal programs.Hartford's Emergency Assistance FundHartford has set up an Emergency Assistance Fund to help residents who do not qualify for UniteCT or need immediate help. This fund offers short-term financial assistance to prevent evictions and stabilize housing situations.New Haven's Rental Assistance ProgramNew Haven provides a rental assistance program focused on low-income families and individuals. This program works with local non-profits and community organizations to provide full support, including money and help in finding housing.Rental Assistance Programs and the CommunityEmergency rental programs have helped thousands of residents in Connecticut and had a big impact on communities. These programs provide financial relief and prevent evictions keeping residents in their neighborhoods. This helps keep communities stable and reduces the strain on homeless shelters and social services.A recent analysis by the U.S. Department of the Treasury highlighted the impact of the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program, which has provided over $46 billion to support housing stability for eligible renters throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has made over 10 million assistance payments, significantly helping low-income renters and renters of color. Research shows that the ERA program has played a crucial role in preventing evictions, with more than 80% of ERA assistance in 2021 going to very low-income households.Challenges and Future DirectionsDespite the successes, rental assistance programs face challenges like bureaucratic delays, limited funding, and the need for ongoing support. The pandemic's economic effects linger and there is a growing need for steady funding and simpler processes to ensure that help reaches those in need quickly.Connecticut policymakers and housing advocates are continuously working to improve these programs. We are trying to increase outreach, to simplify applications, and secure more funding from federal and state sources.Finding Emergency Rental Assistance in ConnecticutNo one wants to feel helpless about paying their rent. The Connecticut emergency rental assistance program that existed during the pandemic may be gone, but that should not be a barrier to confidently supporting your housing situation. Whether you’re seeking emergency rental assistance in Hartford, CT, or looking for help in Fairfield County, you are never far from the aid you need. For more information regarding rental assistance programs, check out our overview for those struggling to pay rent.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Delaware Emergency Rental Assistance: 2024 Application Guide

With the cost of living on the rise, many individuals and families are in need of an emergency rental assistance program. Delaware offers programs and resources to help residents maintain stable housing and avoid eviction. Emergency rental assistance programs in Delaware help ensure that individuals and families can stay in their homes during times of financial hardship. This guide provides an overview of the various programs and resources available across the state of Delaware in 2024.Emergency Assistance FundsThe state of Delaware provides emergency assistance funds to help low-income Delaware residents cover the cost of rent and utilities. Individuals and families seeking emergency assistance funds from the state of Delaware must:Receive or be eligible for cash assistance such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), General Assistance (GA), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or certain Medicaid programs. Show that the housing emergency was the result of unforeseen circumstances that were outside the recipients’ control.Be able to maintain their housing after the emergency is addressed.This program aims to provide a safety net for residents who are facing temporary setbacks, ensuring they do not lose their homes due to circumstances beyond their control.Eviction Defense ProjectFacing eviction can be a daunting and stressful experience. Delaware residents who are facing eviction can consult the resources provided by the Eviction Defense Project. These resources include legal aid as well as financial support to keep Delaware residents housed. Legal aid services can help residents understand their rights and navigate the eviction process, potentially preventing displacement.The Eviction Defense Project is an essential resource for those who need immediate assistance and advice. By providing both legal and financial support, the project helps residents avoid eviction and stabilize their living situations.New Castle County ResourcesIndividuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in New Castle County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply: Appoquinimink State Service Center (Middletown)Belvedere State Service Center (Wilmington)Claymont State Service CenterDeLaWarr State Service Center (New Castle)Floyd I. Hudson State Service Center (Newark)Northeast State Service Center (Wilmington)Winder Laird Porter State Service Center (Wilmington)These centers provide a range of services and support to ensure residents can access the help they need promptly. Each center is equipped to handle applications and provide guidance on the emergency assistance funds available.Kent County ResourcesIndividuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in Kent County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply:James W. Williams State Service Center (Dover)Smyrna State Service Center (Smyrna)Kent County's service centers are dedicated to helping residents in need of emergency assistance. The staff at these centers can help applicants understand the requirements and complete their applications efficiently.Sussex County ResourcesIndividuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in Sussex County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply:Bridgeville State Service CenterEdward W. Pyle State Service Center (Frankford)Laurel State Service CenterThurman Adams State Service Center (formerly the Georgetown State Service Center)Anna C. Shipley State Service Center (Seaford)Sussex County offers multiple locations where residents can seek help. Each center provides personalized assistance to ensure that every applicant receives the support they need.Milford ResourcesIndividuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance can visit one of the following service centers in Milford to confirm their eligibility and apply: Milford State Service CenterMilford Walnut Street BuildingMilford's service centers are strategically located to serve the community efficiently. These centers are vital for residents who need immediate help with rental assistance.Non-Profit Organizations and Community GroupsIn addition to the resources mentioned above, several non-profit organizations and community groups offer support and guidance to those facing housing insecurity. These groups often provide supplemental assistance and can help residents connect with additional services such as food banks, job training programs, and financial counseling.Further HelpNavigating the complexities of emergency rental assistance can be challenging, but Delaware offers a robust network of resources to support residents in need. Whether you are facing eviction or simply struggling to make ends meet, there are programs and organizations ready to help. By reaching out to local service centers and utilizing available resources, Delaware residents can find the support they need to maintain stable and secure housing.If you’re struggling to pay rent, check out Affordable Housing Hub’s overview of resources. This page provides information on resources available across the United States for people experiencing housing emergencies. You can also visit the Delaware State Housing Authority website for more information on emergency rental assistance programs. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Florida Emergency Rental Assistance: 2024 Application Guide

In Florida, emergency rental assistance programs saw closures and rollbacks across all counties in 2023. This removed some access points to rental assistance that were available to many Floridians at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, if you are in need of emergency rental assistance, Florida still offers several options. Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)Florida’s Temporary Cash Assistance Program (TCA) provides financial support to individuals and families with minor children who need a bit of a boost. This program provides monthly cash assistance payments to qualifying Floridians for up to a lifetime total of 48 months. Families can receive extra income from this program based on the number of children currently living in the home, as well as the age(s) of said child(ren). To receive TCA funding, individuals and families must provide evidence that they make less than 185% of the current Federal Poverty level. There are several other criteria that applicants must meet, including:Possession of a Social Security Number, or proof that applicants have applied for one.Proof of residence in the state of Florida.Proof of work activities, in some cases.Countable assets totalling to equal or less than $2,000.Up to date immunizations for children under age 5.More information about TCA can be found on the Fact Sheet compiled by the Florida Department of Children and Families.Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program was first put in place in Florida in 1996. Since then, the program has helped countless families in need, and it has been so productive that it recently earned renewal through 2026.The TANF program offers monetary assistance to families that the state of Florida deems “needy.” in order to fall into this category, families must meet many of the same criteria as those applying for TCA. However, TANF eligibility is more flexible for those who lose TCA eligibility due to employment, or for two-parent homes that may not fully meet TCA requirements. In addition, Floridians who are 18 years of age or younger and who are heads of household may qualify for additional assistance through TANF.As with other programs, applicants must be residents of Florida to receive benefits and must sometimes provide proof of work or employment, if possible. Emergency Solutions GrantIf you are currently homeless, or actively facing homelessness, you may consider pursuing assistance from the Emergency Solutions Grant. Supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this grant funds, among other things, rental assistance programs and shelter locations for those affected by homelessness.If you are currently under threat of homelessness, or have recently become homeless, you can access any relevant resources and funding through your local Continuum of Care.What are Continuums of Care?In Florida, Continuums of Care (CoCs) are local networks of organizations involved in providing a range of services. These groups can include homeless services providers, public housing agencies, school districts, and many others. All CoCs are constructed with the goal of locating and supporting homeless individuals in their areas and putting them back on the path to stable housing.All CoCs are unique to different areas of Florida. Be sure to reach out to the CoC that is most relevant to your location.Section 8 HousingHousing assistance from the state is not the only housing assistance option in Florida. Section 8 housing, the federal government’s most widely-known housing assistance program, is available throughout the state of Florida. Section 8 housing is often commended for its flexibility in applicable housing situations. Those eligible for Section 8 vouchers can choose to live in single-family homes, apartments, townhomes, and the like. As with TCA and TANF, Floridians must demonstrate appropriate financial need in order to qualify for participation in Section 8.All Section 8 housing is coordinated through local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). These groups are dedicated to pairing affordable housing with individuals in need. To find your nearest PHA, use our simple Search Tool.Finding Rental Assistance in FloridaNo one wants to feel helpless about paying their rent. The Florida emergency rental assistance program that existed during the pandemic may be gone, but that should not be a barrier to confidently supporting your housing situation. Whether you’re seeking emergency rental assistance in Jacksonville, FL, or looking for help in Santa Rosa County, you are never far from the aid you need.For more information regarding rental assistance programs, check out our overview for those struggling to pay rent.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Georgia Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Individuals and families can be struck by hardship at any time leaving them at risk of eviction from their homes. The problem was aggravated even more by the COVID-19 pandemic, where millions of people across the country faced financial difficulty and pre-existing housing inequalities were magnified. Emergency rental assistance programs in Georgia are one way to make sure those in need get necessary help. These programs are meant to assist those facing hard times by paying all or a portion of their monthly rent and/or utilities for a specified time. The criteria for these programs vary: assisting those who meet a certain income threshold, who live in a particular county or zip code, family demographics, or those who fall into a specific age bracket. Find out how emergency rental assistance programs in Georgia work and whether you may qualify. Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThe Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) runs the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Formerly known as Section 8, this program is a tenant-based rental assistance program for low-income individuals and families, as well as older adults and people with disabilities, to rent safe and affordable dwellings. The HCV is meant to provide  improved living environments and fair housing for low-income residents. Upon applying and having an application approved, the DCA provides subsidy payments directly to the property owners on behalf of the program participants. The HCV is administered in 149 of Georgia’s 159 counties. The DCA does not have jurisdiction in the remaining counties and similar programs are administered through their housing authority. Applying for the HCV program involves filling out an application and submitting the required documents. Applicants are placed on a waitlist and then selected from a lottery to verify eligibility. Local Rental Assistance Programs in GeorgiaIn addition to federally funded programs, The State of Georgia also offers emergency rental assistance on a local level. These agencies deliver rental assistance and other services to residents based on their county, city, or zip code. Organizations include: Midtown Assistance Center, Inc. With the Midtown Assistance Center, Inc., people living in certain zip codes and who have consistently paid the total amount of rent they owe over the last six months can receive help on rent and utilities. Applicants must also have been consistently employed over the last six months, or recently unemployed, and show sufficient income for future months’ bills.Star-C Corporation Eviction Diversion Program This program, servicing people living in the City of Atlanta, covers up to $7,000 in rent to those in the city experiencing hardship due to job loss or reduction of hours, or emergencies such as transportation or medical emergencies.Action, Inc. People living in Athens-Clarke, Barrow, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee,  Oglethorpe and Walton Counties may be eligible to receive assistance with rent or utilities from Action, Inc. Their Community Services program helps those who have experienced financial hardship within the last 90 days. Applicants can receive assistance one time in a 24-month period.  Neighborhood Cooperative MinistriesNeighborhood Cooperative Ministries provides rent and utility assistance to at-risk Gwinnett County residents from Doraville, Norcross, Peachtree Corners, and Tucker as well as Greater Gwinnett through community partner referrals and funding cycles. Call or visit their office to get started. County governments or other local agencies throughout Georgia may administer their own rental assistance programs outside of state or federally funded initiatives. Check with your municipality to find out what their rental assistance options are and how you can qualify. Other ProgramsCertain initiatives are administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These include the HCV program as well as a subsidized apartments program where apartment owners are assisted by HUD in providing reduced rent prices to low-income tenants. HUD also runs the HOME program, which gives grants to state and local governments to provide affordable housing.  Finally, the GA/RYSE program is aimed at helping young adults get on their feet with household startup costs. They can provide temporary rental assistance for up to three months as well as utility and rental deposits, food services, and coaching assistance with an approved living plan. Eligibility depends on age, whether you're a post-secondary student, and if you're "in care" or "out of care.”Finding Rental Assistance in GeorgiaIf you or someone you know in Georgia have come upon hard times and are in need of rental assistance, help is available. Use our Affordable Housing Search to get in touch with your local agency and learn more about your options. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Hawaii Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Maui wildfires have left many Hawaii residents struggling to find the financial resources they need to cover the cost of housing. If you’re worried about making past, current, or future rent payments for your household, there are emergency rental assistance programs in Hawaii that can help you.Statewide Emergency Rental Assistance in HawaiiThere are currently 2 statewide emergency rental assistance programs available in Hawaii: the DHS Rental Assistance Program and the OHA’s Ka Wailele Emergency Financial Assistance Program. To help you determine if these programs may be of assistance to you, let’s break down the details of each one, including how you can apply.DHS Rental Assistance for Wildfire SurvivorsIn December 2023, the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the DHS Rental Assistance Program specifically for survivors of the Maui wildfires who did not qualify for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program provides housing through Airbnb or the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) Hawaii Fire Relief Housing Program.Eligible households can receive housing for up to 12 months and will pay an average monthly rate depending on the number of bedrooms in the property:0-1 Bedroom: $5,000/month2 bedrooms: $7,000/month3 bedrooms: $9,000/month4 bedrooms: $11,000/monthDHS, GEM, or the American Red Cross will contact most households that qualify for support, but you can apply separately by emailing hawaii@globalempowermentmission.org if you believe your household may be eligible.OHA’s Ka Wailele Emergency Financial Assistance ProgramThe Ka Wailele Emergency Financial Assistance Program offers financial assistance to Native Hawaiians who are 18 years or older and struggling with financial hardships. Awards can range from $1,500 to $2,000 and can cover expenses like rent, mortgage, utility support, car repairs, funeral expenses, and out-of-pocket medical expenses.Applicants do not have to meet certain income requirements to be eligible for the program. However, participants can only receive assistance once every 2 years.To stay updated on the program’s status, you can sign up to receive updates from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).Hawaii County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe Hawaii County Emergency Rental Assistance Program can help residents of Hawaii County cover the cost of past due rent, prospective rent, and rental deposits. Any past due payments between April 2020 and current day are eligible for up to 18 months total of assistance.To be eligible for the program, you must be a Hawaii County resident who is at least 18 years old and can provide proof of:Financial hardship or risk of homelessness or housing instabilityLate rent, eviction notice, or homelessnessHousehold income limits at or below 80% AMIHere are the estimated annual income limits for different sized households:1 member: $56,5002 members: $64,5503 members: $72,6004 members: $80,6505 members: $87,1506 members: $93,6007 members: $100,0508 members: $106,500Eligible households can apply now through the website or call the phone line for assistance at 808-298-5566.Maui County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe Maui County Emergency Rental Assistance Program helps low-income households that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic pay their rent, utility bills, or both. Eligible households can receive up to 12 months of assistance with payments made directly to the specific landlord or utility.For past due payments, the program will cover bills going back to March 13, 2020 at a rate of $2,500 per month. The support for current and future bills is $2,000 per month for rent and up to $500 per month for utilities.Only new applicants can currently apply for the pre-screening process.KHAKO Rental Assistance ProgramThe KHAKO Rental Assistance Program is a comprehensive homelessness prevention program that provides both rental assistance payments and counseling and case management to Maui residents. Those eligible to receive support are individuals and families moving from emergency shelter to permanent housing and those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to a lack of financial resources.Participants in the program can receive assistance with:Past rent.Security deposits.First month’s rent.Utility deposit or disconnection.You must complete a pre-application screening before submitting your full application. For extra assistance, you can reach a Rental Assistance Coordinator at (808) 446-8129.Emergency Rental Assistance for EveryoneNo matter where you live in Hawaii, you should be able to receive financial support for your housing, especially in times of emergency. For more information about emergency rental assistance in Hawaii and other states, check out our complete guide to rental assistance programs.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Idaho Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

As the cost of living continues to increase, many individuals and families need help paying for their Idaho housing. Emergency rental assistance programs play a pivotal role in helping Idaho residents avoid eviction and stay housed during challenging economic times. If you’re having trouble paying your rent in Idaho, here is an guide to the Idaho emergency rental assistance that is available to you.Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI)One resource available across the state of Idaho is the Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) Program. TAFI provides short-term financial assistance to low-income families. This assistance can be critical in covering rent and other necessary expenses, helping families avoid homelessness. The program aims to promote self-sufficiency by providing support while families work towards improving their financial situation through employment and education.Idaho Legal AidIdaho individuals and families who are facing eviction may need legal support to navigate the situation and remain housed. Idaho Legal Aid Services, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides free legal services to low-income and senior citizen Idaho residents. This organization helps tenants understand their rights, negotiate with landlords, and if necessary, represent them in court. Legal support can be crucial in preventing unjust evictions and ensuring that all legal procedures are properly followed.Idaho Housing Information Referral CenterIdaho residents can contact the Idaho Housing Information Referral Center to speak with a counselor about emergency housing options. The counselors can provide information on available rental assistance programs, help residents find affordable housing, and offer guidance on managing housing costs. This service is an invaluable resource for those who are unsure where to turn for help and need immediate advice on their housing situation.Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, and Shoshone Emergency Rental AssistanceIdaho Individuals and families looking for emergency rental assistance in Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, or Shoshone can contact St. Vincent de Paul, which is a non-profit organization that provides support for Idaho residents in need. Services include emergency shelters as well as financial assistance to help cover the cost of rent and utilities. St. Vincent de Paul also offers case management services to assist individuals in finding long-term solutions to their housing challenges, ensuring sustained support beyond immediate financial aid.Clearwater, Idaho County, Latah, Lewis, and Nez Perce Emergency Rental AssistanceIdahoans seeking emergency rental assistance in Clearwater, Idaho County, Latah, Lewis, or Nez Perce can reach out to the local Salvation Army. Among its other services, the Salvation Army helps people find and maintain safe and affordable housing. They offer various forms of support, including emergency financial assistance, shelter services, and transitional housing programs. The organization’s holistic approach ensures that individuals and families receive the comprehensive help they need to achieve housing stability.Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley, and Washington Emergency Rental AssistanceFor veterans and their families in Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley, and Washington, the Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program provides case management services to help participants receive public assistance. SSVF also provides financial assistance for expenses such as rent, utilities, and rental application fees. The program focuses on preventing homelessness among veterans by offering tailored support that addresses their unique needs and challenges.All Idahoans in Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley, and Washington can contact Jesse Tree for case management as well as financial assistance for expenses such as rent. Jesse Tree works closely with individuals and families to create sustainable housing plans, offering not just immediate financial relief but also long-term solutions to ensure ongoing housing stability.Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls Emergency Rental AssistanceResidents of Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls can contact the South Central Community Action Partnership for financial assistance with rent and utilities. This organization provides a range of services aimed at reducing poverty and improving the quality of life for residents. They offer emergency assistance as well as programs designed to promote self-sufficiency and long-term financial stability.Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power Emergency Rental AssistanceIdahoans in Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, or Power can contact Aid for Friends for information on emergency shelter services. Aid for Friends provides temporary housing solutions, meals, and other support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Their goal is to help people transition from emergency shelters to stable, permanent housing.Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, Teton Emergency Rental AssistanceClub, Inc. provides affordable housing for Idahoans in Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton. They offer various housing programs, including emergency rental assistance, to ensure that residents have access to safe and affordable housing options. Their services are designed to support individuals and families in achieving and maintaining housing stability.County Government ProgramsDepending on the availability of funds, individual counties in Idaho may offer emergency rental assistance. These programs can vary in terms of eligibility requirements and the types of assistance provided. To learn more about what your county offers and see if you qualify, visit your county’s website. Local government programs can be a crucial source of support for residents facing financial difficulties.Learn More About Idaho Emergency Rental AssistanceIf you’re struggling to keep up with the cost of your Idaho housing, emergency rental assistance is available. The state government, local governments, and several non-profit organizations offer Idaho emergency rental assistance. These programs are designed to provide immediate financial relief and support, helping residents avoid eviction and maintain stable housing. For more information on programs that can help you with housing expenses, visit Idaho Housing.

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Illinois Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

The cost of housing in Illinois has risen significantly in recent years. In urban areas like Chicago, Champagne, and Rockford, affordable rental living is difficult to come by. Nonetheless, the population of these areas has continued to grow, and so has the demand for housing. Because of this, there are a variety of Illinois emergency rental assistance programs available for state residents who may be struggling with increased rent prices.During times of emergency or financial hardship, many Americans find themselves at risk of being evicted. The cost of housing isn’t going down any time soon. Fortunately, there are short-term options available for Illinoisans who find themselves struggling to make rent. The state of Illinois provides emergency rental assistance for those who are in financial crisis and at risk of homelessness. Illinois Emergency Rental Assistance Program Requirements Each rental assistance program will have different requirements, but you may be eligible for emergency assistance if you find yourself in an emergency situation, for example: You recently became unemployed and do not have a stable incomeYou are currently waiting on an eviction court case and are struggling to make rentYou have experienced significant financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermathYour current income is at or below 80% of the area median income There are many extenuating circumstances that can make paying rent difficult. Below are some state-specific aid programs.  Illinois Rental AssistanceThe major rental assistance program in the state is the Illinois Court-based Rental Assistance program. If you are a tenant who is facing eviction but has a pending case in court, you may be eligible for state rent assistance. Proof of citizenship is not a requirement for this form of aid. Cash assistance programs in Illinois may be able to help your family stay afloat and keep your rental home during a time of financial crisis. For example, TANF can help pay for food, shelter, and other necessities. Region-Specific ResourcesAs the greater Chicago area has the highest population density and the highest rate of homelessness, it is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Funding dedicated to rental assistance is available, particularly for those most impacted by the pandemic. The Chicago Rental Assistance program is available to all Chicago residents who meet the income requirements and are at risk of eviction, regardless of citizenship status. Visit the application portal for more information.There’s emergency rental assistance in Rockford, IL through their Community Action Assistance Program helps people with their first month of rent in a new location and provides temporary shelter for those who are already homeless. The Champagne County Habitat for Humanities program can guide families to further housing assistance resources and help with rent assistance applications. The City of Champagne Township also provides general social assistance, which also applies to housing. Nonprofits, Local Churches, and Private OrganizationsState-based options may not be easily accessible to everyone. Another way to receive rental assistance is by working with nonprofit organizations or local churches. These types of organizations tend to have less “red tape” in the way of accessing rental assistance, but they also have limited resources and can only help each individual case to a certain extent.Often, these organizations have a specific mission or community that they serve, such as:Domestic violence sheltersHousing for immigrants and refugees Housing for people with a disability Housing for people suffering from addiction These programs may offer temporary housing solutions including rent assistance. Sometimes, private organizations such as banks or nonprofits can provide small loans to those who need temporary cash assistance for rent. Charity organizations often provide assistance with flexible requirements for paying the money back. Whatever your immediate needs are, there are a variety of emergency rental assistance programs in Illinois to help you get back on your feet.Frequently Asked QuestionsFor how long can I receive rent assistance?Most programs only provide assistance for a few months at a time. Emergency rent assistance is designed for those who are experiencing a temporary crisis that makes them unable to pay their rent for the time being. What if I need housing assistance for a longer period of time?For longer-term housing assistance visit the Affordable Housing Hub to explore options in finding affordable housing.For Illinois residents, it is also a good idea to visit the Illinois Department of Human Services to explore resources. How long does it take to receive rent assistance?Depending on the type of program you are applying for, receiving aid can take. It is also never guaranteed that you will receive emergency rent assistance as funding is almost always limited, so it is important to start the process as soon as possible. Facing housing insecurity is frightening and navigating social aid is not easy. At Affordable Housing Hub, we are here to support you in your path to stable housing.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

It's no secret that rent in Indiana has gone up significantly in the past few years. If you are a part of the one-third of Hoosiers who rent a living space, it is possible that you may at some point find yourself in an emergency situation in which you need help making rent. Fortunately, there are several Indiana emergency rental assistance programs out there to help.Particularly in the years during and following the COVID-19 pandemic, countless renters have found themselves in situations of financial instability that put them in danger of homelessness. It’s important to be familiar with rental assistance options available in your community so that you can act quickly when you or someone you know needs help.Indiana Emergency Rental AssistanceThe Indiana state government offers several different programs to help tenants pay rent and maintain safe, stable housing. Here are a few of the programs that your household may want to apply for if you’re struggling to pay your rent.Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance program can provide up to 12 months of rental assistance for eligible residents of Indiana. The amount and time length of the aid will depend on your household size and the region of Indiana where you live. To see if you are eligible for this program, you can fill out their Indiana emergency rental assistance application.Veterans Affairs Supportive HousingIf you or someone in your household is a VA health care eligible veteran, you may be eligible for the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program. This program is meant to help reduce homelessness among veterans and encourage veterans to get the healthcare treatment and assistance they need to live healthy lives in the community.Tenant-Based Rental AssistanceThe Indiana Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program is meant to help low-income families with at least one household member who was formerly incarcerated. The exact amount of assistance varies by household and is determined based on the following:Household income.The landlord requested rent.A rent reasonableness standard.The Salvation ArmyWhether you’ve used one of their food banks or shopped at one of their thrift stores, chances are, you’ve heard of the Salvation Army before. They offer help with a variety of housing expenses, including both rent and utilities. You can provide your zip code to locate your nearest Salvation Army location and contact them to get financial assistance.Temporary Assistance for Needy FamiliesThis is a cash assistance program that is available to households that include children under the age of 18. The exact amount given to each household is determined based on available income, such as wages and child support, compared to the need standard for a family that size. This cash assistance can help families pay rent as well as other essentials, like utilities and food.Modest Needs FoundationThe Modest Needs Foundation is focused on helping individuals and families who live just above the poverty line, making them ineligible for many common types of emergency assistance. If your household lives just above the poverty level and has recently experienced a documented emergency that left you unable to pay rent, the Modest Needs Foundation’s grants could be a helpful resource for you.Indianapolis Emergency Rental AssistanceMarion County, which includes the greater Indianapolis area, struggles with high eviction and homelessness rates. Here are some of the additional rental assistance programs available to people living in and around Indianapolis.Indianapolis Township TrusteesThe Indianapolis Township trustees provide funding to eligible Indianapolis renters in need of temporary assistance. To apply for temporary assistance, call the center and schedule an appointment. When you go in person, remember to bring proof of income, receipts for housing payments, tax returns from the previous year, some form of ID, and birth certificates for any children in the home.Direct Emergency Financial AssistanceThe Damien Center in Indianapolis offers emergency financial assistance to Indianapolis residents who need help making rent, paying for utilities, or managing other financial emergencies. Their Direct Emergency Financial Assistance (DEFA) program is a great option if you need short-term assistance.  Finding Emergency Rental Assistance in IndianaWhether this is your first time learning about emergency rental assistance or you’ve been struggling for a while, there is help out there. For help finding the right Indiana emergency rental assistance program for your needs, you can search the Affordable Housing Hub database to get an overview of your options.Frequently Asked Questions What if I need housing assistance for a longer period of time?For longer-term housing assistance visit the Affordable Housing Hub to explore options in finding affordable housing. The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority has more information on long-term housing.How long does it take to receive rent assistance?Depending on the type of program you are applying for, receiving aid can take. It is also never guaranteed that you will receive emergency rent assistance as funding is almost always limited, so it is important to start the process as soon as possible.  Is IERA available in every county of Indiana?No, each county varies in the type of assistance available and some are not participating in IERA. Marion County and Hamilton County in particular run separate housing assistance programs, so you will need to go through the county to apply to those programs. 

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Iowa Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Iowa was among the states with the highest average rent increase in the country in 2023. With the cost of housing going up and wages remaining stagnant, even the most cautious of renters can find themselves in an emergency situation where they are unable to make rent. Fortunately, there are programs and community organizations across Iowa working hard to help families stay in their homes. Eligibility for Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in IowaThough each program’s requirements may vary somewhat, you are likely eligible for some sort of rent assistance in Iowa if one or more of the following applies to you:Your income is at or below 80% of the median for your area. You recently became unemployed and will temporarily not have enough money to make rent.You can demonstrate significant financial hardship due to some other emergency situation.Renters who are particularly vulnerable, such as the elderly or those with children, are generally prioritized for emergency rent assistance.Statewide Rental Assistance ProgramsHere’s some information about each of the statewide emergency rental assistance programs available to Iowa residents.Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramSeveral Iowa counties participate in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which is a nationwide program to help those struggling to make rent. The state of Iowa works with IMPACT, a community action organization, in order to process applications and distribute aid to Iowa renters who need it. At this time, this program is only able to provide one month of rent assistance at a time. For longer-term assistance, your family may be assigned to a caseworker to help navigate other housing options. IMPACT also provides other essential services including food and utility assistance, which may help your family to sustain enough financial resources to make rent overall. Home and Community Based Rent Subsidy ProgramThe Iowa Finance Authority coordinates the Home and Community Based Rent Subsidy program, which provides monthly rent assistance for a limited period of time. Those receiving any other form of rent assistance are not eligible for this program. If you do not qualify for other rental assistance programs, this may be a good option for you.Central Iowa Community ServicesCentral Iowa Community Services (CICS) is a charity organization specifically designed for those with Behavioral Health Issues and intellectual disabilities. CICS provides several resources and services including emergency financial support across 15 Iowa counties. Iowa Veterans Trust FundIf you or someone else in your household is a veteran, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund. This program offers support for a variety of expenses, including rent. To qualify, you must be a veteran and your household must earn 300% of the federal poverty line or lower based on household size.Family Investment ProgramThis is Iowa’s version of Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). This program is available to households with children under the age of 18, whether it’s a one- or two-parent family or other relatives caring for children without parents in the home. You can receive payments for up to five years, after which you will need a hardship exemption to continue receiving payments.County Rental Assistance ProgramsMost rental assistance programs in Iowa are focused on a specific county or area. This allows organizations to provide location-specific assistance and account for the unique needs of their communities. Here are some examples of valuable county-specific emergency rental assistance programs in Iowa.Des MoinesIn the Des Moines area, CROSS Outreach is a small nonprofit that may be able to provide temporary rent assistance. Because it is a private organization that relies on donations, aid is not guaranteed and is given based on need and availability. PoweshiekIn Poweshiek County, there is aid available for families who are not already receiving assistance through subsidized housing. The county provides aid of up to $200 per month for families with no children and up to $325 per month for families with children. JohnsonThe Johnson County General Assistance program has financial assistance available for needy families in the region. This short-term financial aid can go toward rent or other essentials like utilities, prescriptions, or transportation.LinnIn Linn County, St Vincent de Paul Cedar Rapids can provide rent and utility assistance for those who bring in a physical copy of their signed lease. This type of assistance is available up to one time every six months for renters in need. Other CountiesIn general, most social assistance in Iowa is small-scale. There are countless grassroots organizations within Iowa that help to provide whatever aid they can to those who need it. If you don’t see your county listed above, you can search the Affordable Housing Hub to find emergency rental assistance programs near you.For further information and to explore potential options for emergency rental assistance, contact us at contact@affordablehousinghub.org 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

During times of financial hardship, many families and individuals across the country need help making their rental payments. If you are currently living in Kansas, you might already be aware that the Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance program has closed. However, there are still other ways you can access the support and resources you need. Let’s go over some of the main rental assistance programs available to Kansas residents in 2025.Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA)The Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA) program, run by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, started in March 2021 and ended in February 2023. At the time of its closure, sufficient funding was no longer available to continue offering assistance to every household that applied.Throughout its 1.5 year duration, the program provided more than $290 million in relief for over 82,000 Kansas residents. It also prevented evictions in an estimated 32,000 households across the state.Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)The Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program is another program offered by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation that is still active. Through TBRA, income-eligible households can access financial resources to help pay for rent, security deposits, and utility deposits.Different agencies provide funding for various locations across the state. You can submit your application to a corresponding agency depending on the county or city in which you currently live. You can find a full list of agencies and the counties or cities they serve as well as any documents and forms necessary for the application process on the TBRA home page.Kansas CityIf you’re looking for an emergency rental assistance program in Kansas City, there is no shortage of supportive organizations. The Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) Housing Authority lists many of them along with their phone numbers on their website:Mount Carmel Community Outreach (913-621-4111): Rental assistance.Catholic Charities Of Wyandotte County (913- 621-3445): Rent and utility assistance.Village Presbyterian Church (913- 262-4200): Utility assistance.Metro Lutheran Ministries (913-341-8333): Rent, utility, and food assistance.USD 500 (913-551-3200): Rent and utility assistance for student families.Wyandot Center, Kim Wilson Housing (913-328-4600): Rental and mental health assistance.The KCK Housing Authority also offers public housing with rental rates that adjust based on your current income. So, if your income goes down, your rent will as well. Some residents may be able to qualify for a flat rental rate instead.Johnson CountyLow-income households in Johnson County may qualify to receive limited rental assistance. To be eligible for support, you must:Be a Johnson County resident.Provide proof that your household is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.Provide photo IDs for members of the household who are 18 or older.Provide Social Security cards for all members of the household.Provide a past-due notice or an eviction notice from the landlord.In this case, rental assistance does not apply to rental deposits. Those who are currently in a subsidized housing program cannot apply for support through this program either.Additional Kansas Housing ResourcesOften, one hardship can lead to another, leaving families unsure about how to move forward. If your household needs additional assistance with more than rent or utility payments, here is a list of various types of resources available to Kansas residents.211 of Kansas211 of Kansas is a statewide service offered through United Way that connects Kansas residents with specialized support. No matter where you live in the state, you can dial 211 to reach a specialist who will help you find the resources you need.In addition to housing support, 211 of Kansas provides resources for:Health and dental care.Mental health and addiction.Transportation.Employment and education.Legal and money management.Seniors and disability.You can also find information by visiting the 211 online directory and selecting your zip code, city, or county.Kansas Association of Community Action Programs (KACAP)The Kansas Association of Community Action Programs (KACAP) aims to help low-income households across the state find support throughout many different kinds of hardships. They provide connections to local programs that offer rental or utility assistance along with job search support, access to food pantries, and much more.To connect with resources in your area, visit the KACAP network page and click on your county.Find the Support You NeedNo household should have to face hardships alone. If you and your loved ones need access to Kansas emergency rental assistance programs or support from anywhere else in the country, Affordable Housing Hub offers a comprehensive overview of both federal and state programs that can help you find the resources you need.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Kentucky Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Many Americans today struggle to make ends meet, especially with rising inflation in the current economy. Housing can be a large burden on those living on low income, or who are homeless or have special needs. The state of Kentucky provides a number of different options available for residents looking for emergency housing, including shelters, homeowner funds, assistance programs, and Section 8 housing. Below is a comprehensive guide to finding emergency rental assistance for Kentucky residents.Assistance ProgramsThese programs are available to Kentuckians through the government and allow for help with bills and other home services. These include, but are not limited to:The Team Kentucky Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund can help renters with overdue utility bills up to 15 months past due. Renters and landlords can apply for rental assistance online and view the list of requirements to see if they are eligible.The Homeowner Assistance Fund exists to help homeowners with eviction notices, utility services, and foreclosures. It was created in 2020 during COVID-19 to help those affected by the pandemic, allowing qualified candidates to apply for up to $35,000 in assistance. VouchersVouchers can be used to provide rental assistance for low-income individuals and families struggling with finding housing. Some vouchers available include:VETT Vouchers: these vouchers are available for veterans in select counties impacted by homelessness.Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) RENTCafé: this website contains online housing services available to tenants and landlords.Emergency Housing Vouchers: these vouchers are available to homeless families who meet specific criteria.Section 8 HousingSection 8 Housing is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and seeks to provide rental assistance to low-income families and individuals. In the state of Kentucky, the program is run by the Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC), and applicants must meet certain criteria to be eligible for assistance, including:A household income at or below 50% of the median incomePassing a criminal background check since specific crimes would disqualify individuals from assistance A good rental history with no previous outstanding debtsNumber of people in the householdAgeDisabilityMust be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or a non-citizen with eligible immigration statusSection 8 will pay a maximum amount of 30% of a household’s total income, but this number can vary based on several factors including the number of bedrooms and the location of the rental unit. Application ProcessInterested candidates can begin the application process by finding an open waiting list on the KHC website or by getting in touch with local representatives. Once they find an open list, they can continue the process which includes the following steps:Complete the Section 8 application through the website or on paper through KHCProvide necessary documentation including, but not limited to, proof of income, citizenship, and rental historyComplete an interview with KHC or local housing authority to further determine eligibility. See if you have been approved for Section 8 housing assistance and added to the waitlist The Kentucky Housing Authorities are a helpful resource available throughout the application process. There are several branches throughout Kentucky so applicants can contact the closest one in their specific area for more information. They also manage the wait list for Section 8 Housing which can last for years due to high demand.SheltersThere are several shelters in place for those affected by homelessness in Kentucky. For those in Lexington-Fayette County, you can contact the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention.For Louisville and Jefferson County residents, the Coalition for the Homeless will provide good resources for assistance.For all other areas of Kentucky, you can contact the Kentucky Housing Corporation or find resources on their website.Additional Housing ResourcesIf you require further options for rental assistance, there are additional resources available in Kentucky such as:Public Housing: This resource is run by local housing authorities and can include units with immediate availabilityPrivate Rental Markets: Some landlords will offer affordable units to low-income families and individuals through rent subsidies or with units located in housing developments Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Properties: These are units funded by federal tax credits for low-income householdsRural Development Housing: This program is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and includes resources such as rental assistance, grants, and home loansThere is a wide range of resources available to Kentuckians struggling with financial hardships and homelessness. Though the homelessness crisis is growing and waitlists might seem endless, it is still important to utilize the resources available if you seek financial assistance.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Many Louisiana residents today struggle to make ends meet, especially with rising inflation in the current economy. Housing can be a large burden on those living on a low income. Fortunately, there are several Louisiana emergency rental assistance programs that can help you find and maintain stable housing.Here’s how to get help paying rent and other essential bills for your Louisiana home.Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in LouisianaHere are some popular government-funded emergency rental assistance programs available across the state.Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)The TBRA program is an emergency rental assistance program available through the Louisiana Housing Corporation. This program addresses the needs of individuals and families in need throughout the state. Depending on your eligibility, TBRA can help you with money for rent payments, security deposits, utility payments, and utility deposits. Section 8 HousingSection 8 Housing in Louisiana is a federal program run by the Louisiana Housing Corporation. The program seeks to provide rental assistance to low-income families and individuals who are in need of safe and affordable housing. In order to qualify for housing, applicants must meet certain criteria, which include:A household income at or below 50% of the median incomeNumber of people in the householdInterested candidates can begin the application process by finding their local housing authority either online or through your local HUD office. Once the application is submitted, it can take up to a few months to get approved depending on the volume of applicants.Multifamily Housing Rental AssistanceIf you live in a USDA-financed Rural Rental Housing or Farm Labor Housing building, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the USDA. This program makes payments on the tenants’ behalf to owners of eligible projects that are run on a non-profit or limited-profit basis. If you think you may qualify, consider discussing this type of rental assistance with your landlord.Additional Emergency Rental Assistance Resources in LouisianaIf you require further options for housing assistance, there are additional resources available in Louisiana. Some help with rent or other important housing expenses, such as utility bills.Louisiana Low-Income Home Energy Assistance ProgramIf you’re experiencing housing insecurity because you are not able to pay your utility bills, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may be able to help you. LIHEAP offers financial assistance to families that need help paying their energy bills and prioritizes households with members who are children, elderly, or disabled.To qualify for this program, your household must earn less than 60% of the state median household income. If you receive other benefits, such as SNAP, SSI, or TANF, you automatically meet this eligibility requirement.Catholic Charities of North LouisianaThis program offers both short-term financial assistance with rent and utility bills and long-term help through financial education resources. Depending on your parish, the Catholic Charities of North Louisiana may be able to help you with emergency assistance once per year or once every two years.Catholic Charities of South LouisianaMuch like the Catholic Charities of North Louisiana, the Catholic Charities of South Louisiana organization can help you with financial assistance for rent and other essential bills. They currently offer help to eligible people living in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jefferson Davis parishes. You can call them to set up an appointment to applyWhen you apply, you’ll need to bring several documents showing your circumstances, including but not limited to a photo ID, proof of income for everyone in the household, and your current lease.Volunteers of America South Central LouisianaThis organization provides housing support and other resources for people with a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in these parishes:AscensionEast and West Baton RougeEast and West FelicianaIbervilleLivingstonPointe CoupeeYou may be eligible to receive support services such as emergency financial assistance for housing and utility bills. You can also apply for help with other essentials such as food and transportation.Louisiana Department of Veterans AffairsIf you or someone else in your household is a veteran, you may qualify for rental assistance from the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs. They offer a variety of programs to help veterans who are facing homelessness. You can get personalized help for your situation by getting in touch with your local Parish Service Office.Protecting Your Louisiana HomeIf you call a place in Louisiana home, we want to help you keep it that way. There are several rental assistance programs, vouchers, and online resources readily available to give low-income residents the opportunity to find and maintain stable housing. To see what rental assistance programs are available in your area, try out the Affordable Housing Hub’s search tool. You can simply put in your zip code and get a thorough list of programs that may be able to help your household make rent each month.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Maine Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

In recent decades, housing instability has been a pressing issue, especially during the past couple of years. Due to economic disruptions, many Maine residents are struggling to cover housing costs.  Though the leading emergency rental assistance program in Maine is no longer accepting applications, several other options are available for those in need. If you're one of many searching for an emergency rental assistance program in your state, take a moment to explore these resources.Do You Need an Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Maine?Emergency rental assistance (ERA) programs aim to help Maine tenants who struggle to pay rent due to unforeseen hardships. This may include job loss, reduced work hours, medical conditions, and other challenges. ERA programs provide qualified individuals and families with funds to cover rent, utilities, and other housing-related costs. Each program has its own list of requirements and services the organization provides. So, if you're in need of housing assistance, research your state's programs carefully. This way, you'll be more likely to apply for and access the right services. Let's explore a few local programs that cover emergency rental assistance.Maine Community Action PartnershipThe Maine Community Action Partnership (MeCAP) helps empower low-income individuals and families by providing a range of housing services. This organization works with several other Community Action Agencies across the state to offer qualified residents housing assistance, energy assistance, and other housing-related programs that keep residents housed in safe environments.MaineHousing SubsidiesMaineHousing is an organization that provides an array of subsidy programs that make housing more affordable for low-income residents. These programs can cover rent costs, some utilities, and other needs that residents experience. MaineHousing may also assist in home repair and weatherization needs so that they can ensure safe living conditions for families.Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThe Housing Choice Voucher program, or Section 8, is a federal program that's controlled by local public housing authorities. This program provides low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities with housing assistance. Section 8 housing vouchers make it easier for Maine residents to afford decent and safe housing throughout the state. Participants pay a portion of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder.Maine Emergency SheltersMaine Emergency Shelters isn't necessarily an emergency rental assistance program in Maine. However, this program does offer temporary housing and supportive services to individuals and families facing homelessness. These shelters offer residents a safe place to stay, along with access to food, case management, and resources designed to help simplify the transition into stable housing.211 MaineFor individuals who are struggling to find the right program for their needs, 211 Maine can help. This information and referral service is both free and confidential, and it works to connect people to local resources. A couple of these resources include housing assistance, food programs, and healthcare-related services. Maine residents can call 2-1-1 or visit the 211 Maine website to get help finding the support they need any time of day.HUD’s Permanent Supported Housing ProgramThe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides Permanent Supported Housing (PSH) programs in Maine. These programs help individuals who are homeless or at risk, especially those living with disabilities. Through PSH programs, Maine residents can secure long-term housing as well as various supportive services. For example, PSH programs may cover mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and job training. These services help ensure that individuals can maintain their housing.Bridging Rental Assistance ProgramThe Bridging Rental Assistance Program (BRAP) offers temporary rental assistance to individuals who live with psychiatric conditions and are either homeless or at risk. BRAP helps cover the cost of a resident's housing costs until these individuals can secure more permanent rent subsidies. In addition to rental assistance, BRAP offers supportive services that enable housing stability.Finding the Right Emergency Rental Assistance Program in MaineDespite the fact that several local programs exist, it can be challenging to find the right one for your family’s needs. If you’re struggling to find an emergency rental assistance program in Maine, contact or visit your local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. A caseworker should be able to provide you with a list of resources to explore. An emergency rental assistance program in Maine can make a world of difference for those experiencing housing instability. By being familiar with the available programs, individual eligibility requirements, and the application process, you can take steps toward securing housing assistance. Take time to explore your options, ask questions, and collaborate with experienced caseworkers for the best outcome.For more on state programs, explore the resources available at the Affordable Housing Hub. Take a look at open waiting lists and more to find affordable housing.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

There’s no denying that rent has become a burdensome expense for many families in Maryland. Emergency rental assistance programs therefore play a crucial role in helping Maryland residents who are experiencing financial setbacks stay housed. Without these vital programs, many families could face the harsh reality of eviction and homelessness. If you are looking for emergency rental assistance in MD, here is a guide to help you understand the Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Maryland as well as other resources that are available to you.211 Maryland Referral Specialists211 Maryland is a one-stop resource for individuals and families seeking help with finding or maintaining affordable housing. This service is particularly valuable for those who are unsure where to start when it comes to seeking financial assistance. If you’re facing eviction or need help paying rent, you can dial 211 to speak with a 211 Maryland referral specialist who will connect you with resources. These specialists are trained to listen to your situation and provide tailored advice and support, ensuring you get the help you need as quickly as possible.211 Maryland SearchIn addition to offering phone consultations, 211 Maryland also has an online search tool that you can use to find rental payment assistance programs throughout Maryland. This user-friendly tool allows you to search for resources based on your specific location and needs, making it easier to find the right assistance. Whether you need immediate help or are planning for the future, the online search tool is a valuable resource. The website also offers additional information on other forms of assistance, such as food aid and healthcare resources, making it a comprehensive support system for Maryland residents.Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC)The EAFC Program provides cash assistance to families with children who need emergency help paying rent or utilities. This program is designed to offer a safety net for families who are experiencing a temporary financial crisis. Maryland residents can apply for EAFC assistance at their local Department of Human Services office as well as online. To streamline the application process, it’s important to carefully review the eligibility criteria and required application items before applying. Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramMaryland residents can receive Emergency Rental Assistance Program funds through their local government. These funds are designed to help residents who are unable to pay their rent due to unforeseen circumstances such as job loss, medical emergencies, or other financial hardships. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program sends federal funding to location jurisdictions in Maryland. The local jurisdictions utilize the funding to help Marylanders experiencing financial setbacks maintain their housing. Maryland agencies are required to prioritize Emergency Rental Assistance Program funding for the following household types:Households with an annual income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), which is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).Households with one or more individuals who are unemployed at the time of application and who have not been employed for the last 90 days.Visit the Emergency Rental Assistance Program page of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development website to see information on where to apply for assistance in your county. You can use this webpage’s information to get in touch with the appropriate agency in your county. Your local agency will then be able to provide you with more detailed information on eligibility requirements, documentation, and deadlines. Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance ResourcesResidents of Maryland who are struggling to pay rent can receive various forms of assistance from state and local agencies, as well as non-profit organizations. These resources are essential for preventing homelessness and ensuring that families remain safe and stable. Maryland emergency rental assistance is a lifeline for many families facing financial hardship. By utilizing services like 211 Maryland, the EAFC Program, and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, residents can find the help they need to stay in their homes.Remember to seek help as soon as you anticipate difficulties with paying rent, as early intervention can prevent eviction and other serious consequences. The resources and programs available are designed to provide support and stability during tough times, ensuring that Maryland residents have the opportunity to thrive despite financial challenges.It is also important to remember that each assistance program has its own deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility criteria. Proactively researching Maryland emergency rental assistance resources and contacting appropriate agencies can be a great way to ensure you receive the help you need. For more information on emergency rental assistance in MD, visit the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. This website contains updates on emergency rental assistance programs, overviews of different agencies and organizations that support renters who are experiencing financial hardships, and housing education resources for Maryland renters. You can also consult the numerous rental assistance resources mentioned in this Affordable Housing Hub guide. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Massachusetts Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

More and more people are in need of emergency rental assistance. Massachusetts is no exception; as of 2023, emergency rental assistance programs made nearly 10 million payments to families at risk of eviction. Lucky for Bay Staters in financial crises, a couple options are available to you so you can stay located in your current home or relocate to a new one.Finding Emergency Rental Assistance, MAHaving one of the highest costs of living in the country, it is no wonder that some are beginning to rely on an emergency rental assistance program in Massachusetts known as RAFT, or Residential Assistance for Families in Transition. RAFT can provide funds of up to $7,000 per year to families, which can allow them to relocate or afford their current home. This money can be used for a variety of purposes including rent, utilities, and moving expenses. The RAFT application takes between 20 and 30 minutes to complete.Another resource for Bay Staters is housing vouchers, which can be provided on a state or federal level. At the state level, the emergency rental assistance program in Massachusetts is called CHAMP, or Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs. On the CHAMP site, you will be able to apply for state-aided subsidized housing. Similarly, the Metro North Regional Housing Services Office,  MNRHSO, has its own emergency rental assistance program that can pay up to 18 months of rent.Also at the state level, you may be able to apply for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program, or MRVP, which offers rental vouchers to low-income families. Vouchers can be either tenant-based or project-based, so you can decide what works best for you and your current situation.At the federal level, you can apply for the HCVP ( Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers Program). If accepted into the program, you will receive vouchers that you can pay towards your rent while being required to pay only 30% of your rent out of pocket. Currently, no online application is available, so to apply for this program, you will have to go in person to a Regional Administrating Agency. If You Can’t Find an Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Massachusetts That Works for YouUnfortunately, due to limited resources, not everyone qualifies for emergency assistance. Thankfully, Bay Staters do have a couple of other options available to them when in a tight spot. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers emergency housing assistance to those in need of immediate shelter. While shelters are only temporary, they can serve as transitional housing while you are in between jobs or in a housing crisis. There are specific resources available to youths, adults, and those who are pregnant or have children under the age of 21.Additionally, the Housing Toolbox for Massachusetts Communities directly addresses the limited resources offered by the state, so please visit their website for more information regarding what assistance may be available to you and your family.Typically, each community has churches and local charities they can rely on in times of crisis. For example, Catholic churches and the Salvation Army are usually able to assist in paying rent for those who need it. For those uninterested in supporting religious organizations, other options for charities are available such as United Way and Habitat for Humanity. Next Steps in Finding HousingThis may be a difficult time for you, but we just want to remind you that you are not alone - an insurmountable number of people are in the same boat as you, which is why we are here to refer you to the resources available and emergency rental assistance. Massachusetts has one of the highest costs of living in the country, but we don’t blame you for wanting to stay; whether it’s for the immaculate summer days, the fascinating history, or the world-famous seafood, Massachusetts is your home for a reason.Being in financial hardship can be quite overwhelming, but we want you to know that we are here to help. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us, and we would be happy to walk you through your resources and next steps. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Michigan Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

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 levelProof of Michigan residencyProof of urgent needMichigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Emergency ReliefMichigan 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 residencyIncome requirements by household sizeProof of emergency circumstances Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Emergency Housing AssistanceThe 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 residentsIncome requirements vary by programContinuum of Care (CoC) ProgramsMichigan’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 HousingSection 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 incomeU.S. citizenship or eligible immigration statusBackground checksTemporary Cash AssistanceTemporary 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 schoolIncome requirements are based on ages and number of childrenOpen to Michigan residentsWhy Emergency Rental Assistance MattersPrograms 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 MichiganMichigan 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.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Minnesota Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Some programs offering emergency rental assistance have ended since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are still several Minnesota emergency rental assistance programs available to help residents facing housing insecurity. It can be challenging to face losing your home but there are state and local programs here to help. Learn more about the programs available to you and how they impact the communities they serve.Minnesota State Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsHere are some popular programs that are available across the state of Minnesota.RentHelpMN Targeted AssistanceThe Minnesota Housing Finance Agency administers the RentHelpMN Targeted Assistance program, which offers residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This referral-based program is federally funded and aims to provide housing stability. Program administrators identify eligible renters and walk them through the application process.Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:At or below 80% of the local median income.At risk of housing insecurity.Suffered financial hardship or unemployment during the pandemic.Minnesota Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance ProgramThe Minnesota Housing Trust Fund Rental Assistance Program provides qualified occupants of income-restricted properties with rent and utility payments. To qualify for this program, residents must have suffered financial hardship due to the COVID-19 crisis. Payments are made directly to landlords and property owners on behalf of program participants.Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:At or below 80% of the local median income.Must have experienced a loss of household income due to COVID-19.Must not currently receive full rental assistance.Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) Rental AssistanceThe Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota Rental Assistance program provides households with back rent payments and future rent payments. Payments are made directly to property owners on behalf of program recipients.Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:At or below 80% of the local median income.Must have experienced a loss of household income due to COVID-19.Hennepin County Emergency Rental AssistanceHennepin County offers emergency assistance for qualifying residents facing financial hardship and housing insecurity. Residents can use program funds to pay rent and utilities. Several nonprofits and service organizations collaborate under this program. Residents may qualify for multiple services with one application under this program.Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:At or below 80% of the local median income.Must have experienced a loss of household income due to COVID-19.Must reside in Hennepin County.Emergency Rental Assistance in Ramsey County, MNRamsey County offers its residents emergency rental assistance to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program prioritizes individuals and families facing imminent eviction and housing insecurity.Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:At or below 80% of the local median income.Must have experienced a loss of household income due to COVID-19.Must reside in Ramsey County.East Central Minnesota Emergency Housing AssistanceThe East Central Minnesota Emergency Housing Assistance program offers qualified residents funds for rent, mortgage, and utility payments. This program aims to keep Minnesota residents in their homes by avoiding eviction. Here are the main qualifying criteria for this program:Proof of qualifying income for all adults.Documentation of rental agreement.Documentation of overdue payments and housing insecurities.Itasca and Koochiching Counties Crisis Rent Assistance ProgramApplicants to the Itasca and Kooching Counties Crisis Rent Assistance program must go through a phone or in-person screening to determine if they qualify for assistance. This program is aimed at preventing evictions and keeping people in their homes. Residents must provide the following documentation to be considered:Verification of the last 30 days of household income.Third-party verification of homelessness (if relevant).Notice of eviction (if relevant).Documentation of crisis.Documentation of any funds paid toward managing the crisis.Scott and Carver Counties Energy AssistanceThe Scott and Carver Counties Energy Assistance program helps qualified residents pay for rent, utility bills, and heating costs. Program funds can apply to utility disconnections and fuel delivery as well. This program is focused on providing vulnerable families access to essential services. Income requirements for this program vary based on the size of your household.How Rental Support Benefits Minnesota CommunitiesWhen long-term residents lose their housing to eviction, Minnesota communities suffer. Keeping residents in their homes often means keeping them in their jobs and schools. Poverty and housing insecurity weaken our communities. That’s why rental assistance programs are so important. Many communities have struggled to bounce back from the lasting effects of the pandemic. Rental assistance programs offer real solutions. Find Help With Rent in MinnesotaIf you’re facing the challenges of housing insecurity in Minnesota, you don’t have to tackle it alone. There are many programs available at the state and local level to help you avoid eviction and remain in your home. It can feel overwhelming to apply for assistance but help is available from program administrators. Many offer in-person or over-the-phone assistance with applications. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Mississippi Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Facing homelessness can be stressful, but relief is out there. If you need emergency rental assistance in Mississippi, there are several programs keeping residents in their communities. Learn how to get emergency help paying your rent and utility bills today. Statewide Emergency Rental Assistance in MississippiHere are some of the programs that are available to residents who live anywhere in Mississippi and are in need of emergency rental assistance.Mississippi Home Corporation Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe Mississippi Home Corporation's Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program offers rent and utility help for Mississippi residents who’ve been impacted by COVID-19. The ERA program exists to keep people facing eviction in their homes by covering overdue rent and utility payments. This stabilizing effect can help vulnerable households recover from the negative financial impact of the pandemic. To be eligible for this program, you must:Earn 80% or below the local median income.Must demonstrate income loss related to the pandemic.Applicants must be facing the loss of their home.Mississippi Department of Human Services Community Service Block GrantThe Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) provides a Community Service Block grant that can be used for emergency rental assistance, help to get a job, and help to access education. This project aims to lower poverty in communities and address unemployment, housing instability, and inadequate nutrition. To be eligible, you must be within 125% of current federal poverty guidelines for income based on your household size. Emergency Rental Assistance in Jackson, MSIf you live in Jackson, Mississippi, there are some city- and county-specific programs you should consider applying for.Jackson Emergency Solutions GrantResidents looking for emergency rental assistance in Jackson, MS, can take advantage of the local Emergency Solutions Grant program. Funding is available for overdue rent and utility bill payments to keep Jackson residents in their homes. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate significant financial losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that they are residents of Jackson, and that their household income is at or below 80% of the local median income.Hinds County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramResidents of Hinds County Mississippi can apply for financial help with rent and utility payments. To be eligible for this program, applicants must be able to demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic caused them significant financial hardship. The best way to find out if you qualify for the Hinds County Emergency Rental Assistance Program is to fill out an online application or apply in person. Landlords can apply for this program on behalf of tenants. Harrison County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramHarrison County residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance program to get help paying for rent and utilities. This program aims to prevent evictions and solidify housing stability for people in the area so they can maintain their local community.To qualify, residents must be:At or below 80% of the local median income.Able to demonstrate financial hardship related to the COVID-19 crisis.Able to prove residency.DeSoto County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramFor residents of DeSoto County who are struggling to pay their rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the local Emergency Rental Assistance can provide vital support. Qualifying households can get help with rent and utility payments. Assistance applying for this program is available through the administrator. Applicants should be prepared to provide documentation of financial loss due to the pandemic. You may qualify for this program if you:Earn 80% of local median household income or less.Can demonstrate a threat of housing insecurity. How Emergency Rental Assistance Impacts CommunitiesThe COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a lasting impact on communities in Mississippi. Thankfully, state and local programs are helping more residents avoid eviction and remain in their homes. Communities degrade as members are evicted, which makes these programs essential to maintain thriving towns and cities. Rental assistance keeps friends and neighbors together to allow community connections to thrive. Long-term residents facing eviction or housing instability should act quickly to get help and avoid the eviction process. The sooner you can access emergency rental assistance, the more manageable the situation will feel.Accessing Emergency Rental Help in MississippiFinding emergency help paying rent and utilities can make the difference between stability and crisis. Many families in Mississippi have faced eviction and housing insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Emergency rental assistance programs keep people in their homes and facilitate their independence. If you need help paying your rent and utilities, you may want to use the Affordable Housing Hub’s search tool to find the best emergency rental assistance programs near you.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Missouri Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Housing insecurity is urgent and overwhelming but there are resources to provide relief. Find out how emergency rental assistance programs in Missouri can help you avoid losing your home. Statewide Missouri Emergency Rental AssistanceHere are a few programs that are available to Missouri residents across the state.Missouri State Assistance for Housing Relief ProgramThe Missouri State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR) program provides help to both landlords and tenants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This program covers past due, current, and up to three months of future rent and utility bill payments. Under the SAFHR program landlords receive timely payments and renters have housing security. To be eligible for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median income.Demonstrate financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Be at risk of homelessness or housing insecurity.Missouri Emergency Rental Arrears ProgramEligible landlords in Missouri can get support for tenants’ past due rental payments dating back to April 2020 through the Emergency Rental Arrears Program. This program requires collaboration between tenants and landlords. Landlords apply on behalf of tenants and must agree not to evict tenants within 120 days of receiving funding. This keeps more Missouri residents in their homes and protects landlords from having to file evictions and raise rental prices.You may be eligible for this program if your landlord is willing to apply cooperatively with you and your past due rent is because of the COVID-19 pandemic.Local Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsMany counties and cities within Missouri offer emergency rental assistance programs of their own. They may also be able to offer more location-specific assistance and income requirements. Here are a few popular local emergency rental assistance programs you may want to consider.Kansas City Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramAs part of a wider initiative by Kansas City to prevent evictions and curb homelessness, the Kansas City Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides funding for past-due rent and future rent payments to stabilize housing for residents. This program is tailored specifically to the needs of Kansas City residents.To be eligible for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median income. Demonstrate financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Live in Kansas City.St. Louis Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramEligible residents of St. Louis County who are struggling to pay rent can benefit from funds to cover past-due rent, utility bills, and other essential housing needs. This program is funded through the CARES Act and is aimed at preventing homelessness in vulnerable communities. To be eligible for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median income. Demonstrate financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Live in St. Louis County.Greene County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramApplicants to the Greene County Emergency Rental Assistance Program must be screened in person, by appointment. A local community agency walks eligible residents through the application process step by step. This local program offers emergency rental assistance in Springfield MO and other Greene County population centers.At the time of application, the following documents are required:A list of household members.Identification for all household members.Income information for all adults in the household.Proof of unemployment or lost wages due to COVID-19.Copies of past-due rent and utility bills.A copy of your lease or rental agreement.Landlord/property owner’s contact information.Kansas City Reconciliation Services Emergency Rental AssistanceReconciliation Services offers qualified Kansas City residents emergency rental assistance to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Program funds can be used to cover overdue rent and utility bills so residents can avoid eviction. To be eligible for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median income. Demonstrate financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Live in Kansas City.The Effect of Rental Assistance on Missouri CommunitiesCommunities across Missouri feel a significant impact from rental assistance programs that keep long-term residents in their homes. When tenants are evicted they leave longstanding neighbor relationships, valuable jobs, and school bonds behind. Breaking these ties can weaken the community, whether it’s several evictions at once or a few at a time. Emergency rental assistance programs can benefit the broader community by preserving social ties and helping people avoid housing instability.Access Emergency Rental AssistanceMissouri residents struggling to pay rent may feel overwhelmed about finding help. With so many programs to choose from, each with differing qualifications, filling out applications can be difficult to navigate. Many state and local programs offer help finding and applying for emergency assistance in person and over the phone. Emergency relief programs make it easier for individuals, families, and communities to bounce back from the global crisis of COVID-19. To see what relief programs are available in your area, try out the Affordable Housing Hub search tool.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Montana Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Many COVID-era rental relief programs have ended but there are still multiple Montana emergency rental assistance programs that can help residents stay in their homes. The threat of housing insecurity can feel overpowering, but there are programs to help. Find out how to apply for emergency rental assistance in Montana and how these programs benefit communities. Montana Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe Montana Emergency Rental Assistance (MERA) program provides residents experiencing housing instability with financial support. Eligible households could receive up to $2,200 for rent, $300 for utilities, and $50 for internet service each month. However, the amount each household receives is calculated based on their income and expenses.To qualify, households must be able to prove significant financial hardship related to the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, earn 80% or less of the local median household income, and demonstrate the threat of housing instability.Montana Housing Choice Voucher ProgramMontant residents with disabilities, low-income families, and senior citizens can access safe and affordable housing through the Montana Housing Choice Voucher Program through the Department of Commerce. Qualified households can choose their preferred housing in the community. Recipients pay approximately 30% of their gross adjusted income toward rent. The subsidy covers the rest. The amount of the subsidy may be adjusted as the household’s income changes, so it’s important to update your information regularly as jobs change, whether your income is going up or down. You may qualify for this program if you meet HUD income guidelines. Applications are divided into regions, so make sure you’re submitting the right application for your county. Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing ProgramThe Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program offers qualifying homeless veterans in Montana case management and clinical services. Through this program, Montana residents who are veterans or have veterans in their households can receive vouchers to help them secure and maintain housing. Eligibility screenings are conducted by the US Department of Veteran Affairs case management team. To qualify for this program, you must:Receive ongoing case management.Have prior military service. Meet income requirements.Project-Based Section 8The project-based Section 8 Program in Montana works by funding apartments, not individual occupants. Typically, residents will only be expected to pay about 30% of their household income as rent. A Housing Assistance Payment contract covers the rest, adjusting with the household’s income over time. This program is administered by Montana Housing at the Montana Department of Commerce. Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with DisabilitiesThis critical program supports Montant residents with disabilities and promotes their independence wherever possible. HUD supplies funding to subsidize and develop housing that specifically serves low-income adults with disabilities. It can provide interest-free capital advances for the development of accessible housing for the disabled. These capital advances do not need to be repaid as long as the housing is available for low-income adults with disabilities for at least 40 years, incentivizing the management to keep their pricing accessible.Disabled people and the families that care for them are especially vulnerable to housing instability. Programs like this can help ease hardships for families and allow them to focus on caring for their disabled family members. This program can also make it easier for low-income disabled adults to secure housing that is both financially and physically accessible.NeighborWorks Montana Rental AssistanceThe NeighborWorks program provides counseling to renters and housing education through a network of HUD-approved agencies. This program works with local organizations to help renters apply for federal, state, and local emergency rental assistance. If you need help stabilizing your housing situation, this organization can minimize the stress and anxiety of the application process. To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median incomeDemonstrate the threat of housing instability The Importance of Rental Assistance in Local CommunitiesHousing insecurity can have a significant impact on communities. When Montana residents and their families are removed from their homes, social ties are damaged. Individuals may experience the stress of starting over with new housing, jobs, and schools.Programs that help Montana residents facing eviction and housing insecurity play a major role in combating the negative effects of the pandemic on Montana communities. Keeping more people in their homes helps communities by encouraging strong relationships and allowing people to continue developing friendships with the people at their jobs and schools.Accessing Help with Rent in MontanaIf you need support to maintain stable housing and reduce the financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on your household, emergency rental assistance programs may be able to help. To see what emergency rental assistance programs are available in your area, consider using the Affordable Housing Hub’s tool to search and apply for emergency rental assistance programs and low-income housing options.

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Nebraska Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Falling behind on rental payments can result in stress and anxiety. However, help is available for many Nebraskans. In Nebraska, emergency rental program and outreach coordinators can help connect residents in need with proper funding.Rental assistance is available to Nebraskans based on the area in which they reside. Be sure to look into the resources most relevant to your current location.MyLink in NebraskaMany Nebraskans are already aware of the MyLink webpage for Nebraska. Users can select the area in which they live and immediately view a variety of resources available to them, ranging from childcare and education assistance to senior services. Rental support services can be located from this page, as well. All MyLink pages are downloadable so you can view resource pages without an Internet connection. If you’re unclear what services are available to you, simply select your region on their page.Emergency Rental Assistance in Douglas County, NERental assistance programs in Douglas County can be divided into two categories: those aimed towards renters within the city limits of Omaha and those meant for renters outside.Emergency rental Assistance in Omaha, NEIf you live in the city of Omaha, rental assistance is available through the Threshold Continuum of Care (CoC). This network of organizations is dedicated to preventing homelessness and supporting stable living for citizens of Omaha. As with most other financial assistance initiatives, Omaha renters must prove financial hardship in order to receive funds. To connect with Threshold CoC, you can reach out to your local access point.Rental Assistance in Douglas County outside of Omaha City LimitsFor those living in Douglas County outside the city limits of Omaha, your nearest emergency rental assistance comes through the Christian Outreach Program - Elkhorn (COPE). If you make under 50% of the area median income (AMI), you can receive help paying your rent and/or utilities. COPE also offers legal resources for those who may need it.Not sure which program is available at your address? COPE’s address finder will help you figure out what services are available in your area. Emergency Rental Assistance in Lincoln, NEIf you live in the city of Lincoln, Nebraska, emergency rental assistance is available through the All Doors Lead Home Coordinated Entry System. This system helps streamline resources related to housing and emergency , as well as the surrounding Lancaster County. Similar to many other rental assistance programs, applicants will need to prove financial hardship in order to receive funding. Not everyone in the Lincoln, Nebraska, area needs help with paying just their rent. For this reason, the All Leads Home System can also be used to apply for help paying for utilities. The application portal for both forms of assistance is clear and simple, and further assistance can be found using the MyLink website.Nebraska Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA)For those living in the more rural parts of Nebraska outside of the Omaha and Lincoln areas, the path is a bit more straightforward. If you live outside of those zones, the Nebraska Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA), sometimes referred to as Nebraska Rent Help, is likely your most convenient point of access to rental assistance.Authorized in 2021, this program was created with the intention of supporting those whose finances were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. While many states saw rollbacks in ERA programs over the course of 2023, Nebraska has continued to support struggling renters through this assistance.Applying for Nebraska Emergency Rental AssistanceIn a similar manner to the qualifications put in place in 2021, applicants must provide certain documentation in order to be granted funds. This might include:A signed and valid rental agreementProof of occupancyProof of household incomeProof that at least one earner in the household has had their income affected by COVID-19Landlords can also apply for funding through this program in order to support stable housing. Completed applications for landlords include:An IRS W-9 formA signed rental or lease agreementProof of rental arrears owedDocumentation of other subsidies, as applicableFurther Rental Assistance for NebraskansWhile the Nebraska Emergency Rental Assistance program has helped countless renters, it’s not the only form of support out there. Plenty of federal resources exist to help keep your housing stable. For more information about what federal programs may apply to you, check out our Rental Assistance Overview.

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Nevada Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Economic hardships are not uncommon for Nevada residents. Because of this, covering housing expenses can be challenging. Job losses, reduced hours, and the higher cost of living has caused the need for rental assistance to skyrocket. Due to widespread need, state organizations have worked to provide support through Nevada emergency rental assistance programs. If you're a Nevada tenant and you're struggling to make ends meet, it's important to get familiar with the different assistance programs available.Understanding Nevada Emergency Rental AssistanceMany individuals and families in Nevada struggle to keep up with the ever-increasing cost of rents throughout the state. In response to these challenges, several government and charitable organizations have established programs to help residents secure safe, affordable housing. Numerous programs exist, and each has its own set of eligibility requirements, application processes, rules, and waiting lists. Let's go over some of the unique Nevada emergency rental assistance programs that stand to help the state's citizens.Nevada CARES Act Housing AssistanceThe Nevada CARES Act Housing Assistance Program was established to provide housing assistance to Nevadans in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program offers individuals and families both rental and mortgage assistance funds. The CARES Act helps prevent evictions and foreclosures as residents struggle to get back on their feet after the pandemic. This way, Nevada families can remain in their homes despite financial hardship. The program is available throughout Nevada, making it viable for those seeking emergency rental assistance in Reno, NV.Nevada Rural Housing Program (NRH)The Nevada Rural Housing Program offers rural Nevadans affordable housing opportunities. The program provides several services, including rental assistance, homebuyer resources, and financing options for purchasing homes. It's designed to assist low and moderate-income families with securing stable housing.Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN)Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) offers several supportive services to Nevada families. These options include emergency rental assistance, utility assistance, and various case management services. The LSSN aims to prevent homelessness and offer a helping hand to those in need.HopeLink of Southern NevadaHopeLink of Southern Nevada has several services that assist families facing housing instability. The program is especially helpful for individuals seeking emergency rental assistance in Las Vegas, Nevada, where housing costs are high. HopeLink offers rental assistance, utility help, and housing counseling services.Eviction Prevention CHAP ProgramThe Eviction Prevention CHAP (Coronavirus Housing Assistance Program) provides both rental and housing assistance. These options are available to the individuals and families impacted by the recent pandemic. The program prevents evictions by offering financial support to cover overdue (and current) rent. These services help keep struggling families in their homes while they work to overcome hardships.Section 8 NevadaSection 8 is a federal program that's administered by Nevada's Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). The program provides low-income individuals and families with rental assistance. This way, they can secure and maintain affordable housing. Through Section 8, residents receive housing vouchers that cover a portion of their rental costs. Their income covers the rest of the housing expenses in question.Rental and Deposit Assistance ProgramThe Rental and Deposit Assistance Program provides Nevada residents with financial aid to cover rental costs and move-in expenses. These may include the first month's rent, security deposits, and ongoing rental assistance. This program is designed to support Nevadans who are transitioning into stable housing but may be short on the funds they need to cover beginning home expenses.Who Qualifies for Emergency Rental Assistance?Each program has its own set of requirements, but generally, applicants need to meet one or more of the following criteria.Limited Income: Household income must usually be at or below 80% of the area's median income (AMI). In some cases, priority is given to households with incomes below 50% of the AMI.Financial Hardship: Families who have fallen into financial hardship (such as job loss, health conditions, or reduced hours) will likely qualify.Housing Instability: Applicants who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless will likely qualify for assistance.How to Pursue Nevada Emergency Rental AssistanceDespite the fact that several Nevada emergency rental assistance programs exist, finding the right one can be difficult. Fortunately, there are several additional resources Nevadans can pursue for guidance. If you’re struggling to access Nevada housing programs, contact your local Division of Welfare and Supportive Services center, or visit Nevada 211 for more information. Caseworkers and volunteers for these services can direct you toward resources that meet your family’s needs. The economic impacts on Nevada residents have made it clear that a well-rounded support system is a must. If your family is struggling, research each program's resources, requirements, and application process so that you can secure housing assistance as quickly as possible.If you need more information about Nevada’s housing assistance options, check out the Affordable Housing Hub’s Section 8 resources, or explore open waiting lists.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

New Hampshire Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in housing instability that is still impacting people today. Some programs to keep people in their houses ended after the height of the crisis, but there’s no need to feel anxious – there are still plenty of emergency rental assistance programs in NH to help people get and maintain stable housing. If you’re facing the stress of losing your home, these programs can give you peace of mind. Here are some New Hampshire emergency rental assistance programs that might be able to help you.New Hampshire Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe New Hampshire Emergency Rental Assistance Program (NHERAP) offers financial help to New Hampshire residents who can’t make their rental or utility payments due to the COVID-19 crisis. The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) runs this program in conjunction with the Governor’s Office for Emergency Relief Recovery (GOFERR). Qualified households can receive funds for past due and future rent payments, utility bills, and housing expenses. To qualify for this program, you need to:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Be facing housing instability.Demonstrate financial hardship, significant financial obligation, or loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.HomeHelpNHThe HomeHelpNH program offers both rental and mortgage assistance to residents of New Hampshire who are facing housing insecurity through eviction or foreclosure. Qualifying households receive financial support and counseling through local housing agencies to maintain stable housing. Depending on your situation, they may also be able to help you with free civil legal services for eviction cases.To qualify, you’ll need to: Be a resident of New Hampshire.Experience facing eviction or foreclosure.Have documented proof of financial hardship.New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority Housing Choice Voucher ProgramNew Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) Housing Choice Voucher Program gives low-income New Hampshire residents access to safe and affordable housing. Qualifying households pay a portion of their rent and utilities determined by their gross adjusted income. The remainder of their rent is paid by the New Hampshire Housing Authority. Recipients of NHHFA housing vouchers choose their own housing, which must meet criteria ensuring the health and safety of residents. To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 50% of the local median household income or less.Be a New Hampshire resident.Have proof that you are a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing ProgramThe Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (HUD-VASH) serves qualifying homeless veterans with funding, clinical services, and case management. This program is administered by both local housing authorities and the VA. Through the HUD-VASH program, vulnerable veterans can obtain and maintain housing in New Hampshire. To qualify for this program, you need to:Qualify for VA services.Be homeless or facing homelessness.Receive case management services.New Hampshire Community Action Partnership AgenciesNew Hampshire Community Action Partnership Agencies work directly with vulnerable individuals and families to stabilize housing and prevent evictions. These local programs keep people in their homes and prevent neighborhood degradation. CAP agencies offer residents workforce services, HeadStart, fuel assistance, and more programs to further reduce the financial strain families face. Local groups offer programs that cater to the unique needs of their communities and may have different eligibility criteria than other state or federal programs. If you’re at risk of housing insecurity, it’s usually worthwhile to reach out and see if you qualify based on your situation.City of Rochester Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramFor residents of the City of Rochester, the New Hampshire Emergency Rental Assistance Program (NHERAP) can provide local funding for residents who’ve experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds can be used for past-due rent, future rent, general housing costs, and utility payments. Local CAP agencies process applications for this program. To qualify for this program, you’ll need to:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income. Be facing housing insecurity or homelessness.Have at least one member of the household who has qualified for unemployment, experienced loss of wages, or suffered significant financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.How Emergency Rental Programs Help New Hampshire CommunitiesSince the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, homelessness and housing insecurity have become more frequent struggles for residents of New Hampshire and the nation. Emergency rental programs provide relief to renters struggling to pay their bills and keep them in the communities where they’ve built connections. Keeping residents of New Hampshire in their homes helps the whole community recover from the effects of the pandemic while preventing community degradation.Gaining Access to Rental AssistanceFacing a housing loss can be overwhelming. Emergency Rental Assistance relief programs can get you the help you need to avoid eviction and stay in your home. An accurate and complete application is the first step in getting assistance. If you need help applying for these programs, try out the Affordable Housing Hub’s search tool to figure out what options you might qualify for.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

New Jersey Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Housing instability became widespread during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some pandemic relief programs have ended, but you can still apply for help from emergency rental assistance programs in New Jersey. Here’s what you need to know about emergency rental assistance in NJ that can keep you in your home. COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program Phase II (CVERAP Phase II)The COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program Phase II (CVERAP Phase II) provides funding for back rent and temporary rental support. This program is focused on helping households that have experienced income loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents who meet certain criteria can also apply for protection from eviction through this program. To qualify for this program, you must:Prove significant loss of income or financial hardship due to COVID-19.Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you’re experiencing a threat of homelessness. State Rental Assistance Program New Jersey’s State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) supports very low-income families and individuals with housing subsidies. This program aims to provide residents with clean, safe, affordable housing and prevent homelessness.To be eligible for SRAP in New Jersey, you must:Be a New Jersey resident.Earn less than the state-mandated income threshold.Have at least one member of the household who is a child, disabled person, or senior citizen. Emergency Assistance (EA) through WorkFirst NJWorkFirstNJ provides funds for back rent, temporary rental assistance, essential services, and utility bill payments through its emergency assistance program. To qualify for funds through this program applicants must be facing homelessness or be at risk of losing housing due to emergencies. Assistance through this program is typically limited to 12 months but certain hardship circumstances could be considered for an extension of benefits. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet the program’s income requirements or be experiencing financial hardship due to an emergency, such as a fire or flood.Middlesex County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramLow- to moderate-income residents of Middlesex County may be eligible for emergency rental assistance if they were financially impacted by COVID-19. The program provides funds for back rent and overdue utilities, prioritizing residents under threat of eviction.To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Prove financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemicBergen County Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance ProgramBergen County offers qualified residents help with late and missed rent and utility payments. Applicants must prove hardship is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person application help is available by appointment if you have questions. To qualify for this program, you need to:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you’ve experienced loss of wages since 3/13/2020.Ocean County Emergency Rental Relief ProgramEligible Ocean County residents may qualify for help with rent and utility payments through emergency rental relief funding. This program provides funds for up to 6 months of back rent. Utilities and late fees do not qualify for this program but may be easier to pay once the stress of back rent is removed.To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic.Mercer County Emergency Rental Assistance Program Mercer County Board of Social Services and Mercer County Department of Human Services provide eligible residents with rental assistance and help with unpaid utility bills. To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic.Hudson County Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramResidents of Hudson County who live outside of Jersey City can apply for emergency assistance to pay for past-due rent. Jersey City has a separate administration for emergency rental assistance.To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic.City of Trenton Emergency Rental AssistanceResidents of Trenton may qualify for help with rent, utility, and mortgage payments through emergency assistance. Funds are first come, first served.To qualify for this program, you must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Show that you experienced financial hardship directly or indirectly due to the pandemic.Getting Rental Assistance in New JerseyFor New Jersey residents facing housing insecurity, emergency assistance programs are critical. These programs help vulnerable renters avoid eviction and get back on track after the COVID-19 crisis. They also help the broader communities these renters are a part of by helping keep social ties strong as neighbors stay together. If you’re worried about paying your rent, try using the Affordable Housing Hub’s search tool to find emergency rental assistance options near you.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

New Mexico Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people faced housing instability. While some programs have ended, there are still opportunities for emergency rental assistance in New Mexico to help keep you in your community. Here’s what you need to know about these vital programs and how to find out if you are eligible. New Mexico Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramThe New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) provides funding for qualified applicants to pay for past-due rent, current rent, and up to three months of future rent. This program is available through September 2025 with funding and guidance from the U.S. Treasury.To be eligible for this program, your household must:Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Demonstrate the threat of homelessness.Show documentation of financial loss due to COVID-19.New Mexico Housing Trust Fund Housing Stability ProgramThe New Mexico Housing Trust Fund provides assistance to occupants of income-restricted properties managed by the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. Funds cover short-term rental assistance to eligible households. The program focuses on mediation between landlords and tenants and providing housing stability for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.  To be eligible for this program, your household:Must earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Cannot currently receive rental assistance from another program.Needs to have documentation of financial loss due to COVID-19.City of Albuquerque Emergency Rental AssistanceThe City of Albuquerque offers eligible residents up to 15 months of assistance with back rent, current rent, and future rent payments. Bernalillo County also administers a separate emergency rental assistance program for residents outside of the Albuquerque city limits.To qualify for emergency rental assistance in Albuquerque, New Mexico, your household must::Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Demonstrate the threat of homelessness.Show documentation of financial loss due to COVID-19.Reside in Albuquerque.CARES Rental and Utility Assistance: Bernalillo CountyEligible residents of Bernalillo County can receive up to $5,000 in emergency rental assistance through CARES funding. To date, more than 2,898 residents have been able to pay off back rent and avoid evictions through this program. To qualify for this program:Rental payments must be past due because of the COVID-19 pandemic.The household must earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Households must demonstrate the threat of homelessness.Recipients must reside in Bernalillo County.HHH Health & Social Service Centers Emergency Rental & Utility Assistance ProgramThis program is a great option for people who need NM emergency rental assistance quickly. Funds are limited and services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested residents should apply promptly. Contact your local Health & Social Services Center for eligibility information or to start an application. To qualify for this program, your household must::Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.Demonstrate the threat of homelessness.Show documentation of financial loss due to COVID-19.Doña Ana County Eviction Prevention and Diversion ProgramResidents of Doña Ana County who are facing eviction can apply for help with back rent and utility bills. Applicants can check the status of their case online at any time during the process, which makes it easier to stay on top of any updates. To qualify, residents must:Earn 50% or less of the local median household income.Have documentation of imminent eviction.Show that they experienced financial loss due to COVID-19.Reside in Doña Ana County.Emergency Rental and Mortgage Assistance Program (ERMAP): Santa Fe CountySanta Fe County offers eligible residents emergency grants through ERMAP to cope with the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. Residents can use funds from this program to pay past-due rent and utility bills. To qualify for this program, you must:Reside in Santa Fe County.Have experienced loss of work on or after March 1, 2020.Currently be behind on rent.Earn 80% or less of the local median household income.The Importance and Impact of Rental Assistance in New MexicoThe COVID-19 pandemic has forced many residents of New Mexico out of their homes due to loss of work and wages. Losing friends and neighbors harms any community and weakens important social ties. Programs that keep people in their homes support community connections and breathe new life into areas affected by the pandemic.Getting Help With Rent in New MexicoTaking control of housing instability can feel overwhelming but there are programs to help. If you need help paying rent or utilities, these programs can help you figure out how to close the gap, keep you in your home, and help you get back on your feet. Many program administrators offer help applying for programs in person and over the phone. To learn more about emergency rental assistance programs in your area, try out the Affordable Housing Hub’s search tool.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

New York Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

If you’re experiencing housing instability in New York State, there are options available to you. New York has several affordable housing programs and emergency rental assistance initiatives that can provide immediate aid to those in need.New York’s emergency rental assistance programs are designed to offer short-term financial assistance to individuals and families struggling to find or keep housing. The amount and type of emergency rental assistance for which you could be eligible varies depending on factors like the city in which you live and the specific program through which you are seeking aid. Most programs prioritize the elderly, people with disabilities, needy families with children, and anyone facing dire, immediate crises.Is the New York Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Still Accepting Applications?As of 2023, New York State is no longer accepting new applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). This program previously offered relief to low and moderate-income households at risk of homelessness. Although New York is no longer accepting new ERAP applications, your application might still be in progress. If you submitted an application before the deadline and are still waiting to hear back, you should contact the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) using the contact information listed for your county. You can also find information about where to go for emergency rental assistance in Rochester, NY, and other areas of New York State that are ineligible for ERAP benefits.Where Can I Get Emergency Rental Assistance in New York in 2025?If you did not submit an ERAP application before the deadline and you need emergency rental assistance now, you can find resources through your local department of social services. New York’s Department of Social Services (DSS) includes the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) and the Human Resources Administration (HRA), which collectively work to connect individuals with relevant rental assistance programs.New York State Rental Assistance ProgramsIf you are in need of emergency rental assistance in New York, there are several programs that may be available to you.Family Homelessness & Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS)The Family Homelessness & Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS) is intended for families with children who receive cash assistance under the Temporary Aid to Needy Families program (TANF) and are facing eviction or have been evicted. It also supports families who have lost their housing due to domestic violence or health and safety issues. To be eligible for FHEPS, your household must be receiving cash assistance and include at least one child under 18, a child who is 18 years old and attending school full-time, or a pregnant individual. FHEPS may also be able to supplement your rent to help you secure and maintain stable housing.CityFHEPSCityFHEPS is another program administered by New York’s Department of Social Services. It consolidates the previous LINC, SEPS, and CITYFEPS rental assistance initiatives into a single, streamlined emergency rental assistance program. The new program is designed to make rent payments more manageable so that individuals and families can achieve and maintain housing stability.To qualify for CityFHEPS, your household must have an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, as well as meet certain additional criteria, such as facing eviction in court or including a member at risk of homelessness who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Special One-Time Assistance (SOTA)New York’s Special One-Time Assistance (SOTA) program offers a unique solution for eligible Department of Homeless Services clients that pays one year of rent for single adults or households that have spent significant time living in a shelter, helping them to move into more stable housing. SOTA is available to families with children who have spent at least 90 days in a shelter, or to single adults or adult families who have spent at least 90 of the past 365 days in a shelter. The rent must not exceed 40% of the household’s total current or projected income. To be eligible, the DSS must determine that your household is likely to be able to continue to pay its rent with recurring income from employment or other, long-term benefits after the SOTA benefits have ended.More Information About Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in NY StateIf you live in New York State and you are facing eviction or need immediate rental assistance, it's important to act quickly. Have all necessary documentation ready when contacting a rental assistance agency. You should also make sure you know your rights as a tenant in New York State. New York tenants facing eviction in Housing Court may be eligible for free legal services.If you have more questions about emergency rental assistance, our other rental assistance resources might have the answers you’re looking for.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

North Carolina Emergency Rental Assistance: 2024 Application Guide

Emergency rental assistance programs are designed to aid families and individuals who are unable to pay their rent due to unforeseen circumstances — especially those who are potentially facing eviction or another immediate crisis. In North Carolina, emergency rental assistance programs provide temporary relief from homelessness while also empowering people to become self-sufficient. North Carolina offers a range of emergency rental assistance programs designed to help people in need of immediate, short-term housing aid. Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in NCIf you’re seeking emergency rental assistance in North Carolina, you have numerous options depending on your specific needs and situation. Some cities have their own programs in place for supporting residents in need of temporary rental assistance. For example, if you’re looking for emergency rental assistance in Greensboro, NC, you may be able to receive aid directly through the Greensboro Housing & Neighborhood Development Department.If your local city government does not offer an emergency rental assistance program of its own, you still have several other options at the state level.Work First Family Assistance (WFFA)Work First Family Assistance (WFFA) is North Carolina’s implementation of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. It offers various forms of support to families who are struggling to help them achieve economic independence, including short-term training, employment services, financial counseling, and many other resources aimed at increasing job readiness and retention.To be eligible for assistance through the Work First program, your household must meet certain requirements.To apply for assistance from the Work First program in North Carolina, contact your local Department of Social Services directly. You can also apply online via the ePASS website. Before applying for Work First assistance, you must also register for the First Stop Employment Assistance Program with the Employment Security Commission.Work First Emergency AssistanceWork First Emergency Assistance is designed to provide immediate, short-term help to families in the Work First program with urgent needs such as utility shut-offs or eviction notices. Emergency assistance offered through North Carolina’s Work First program is intended to address specific, non-recurring episodes of need; it’s not meant to serve as ongoing financial support.To qualify for Work First Emergency Assistance, your household must include a child living with a relative and its total income must not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level (in addition to meeting the criteria for Work First program eligibility).NC Emergency Solutions GrantThe NC Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program is one of North Carolina’s best resources for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. Grant funds are administered to communities in North Carolina through local governments and non-profit organizations, which use ESG funding to support a wide variety of social and emergency housing solutions throughout the state.Emergency shelters offer essential services like case management and health services to shelter residents.Street outreach connects unsheltered homeless individuals with emergency shelters and other necessary services.Prevention initiatives provide financial services such as rental assistance and utility payments to prevent homelessness.Rapid re-housing helps homeless individuals and families facing eviction secure permanent housing quickly and provides support to help them maintain housing stability.Reach out to your local Coordinated Entry contact for more information about how to get connected with ESG-funded services in your community.North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) offers emergency rental assistance through the Housing Choice Voucher Program. This program offers rental subsidies to low-income families to help them afford safe and sanitary housing in the private market. To apply, contact your local Public Housing Authority.The NCHFA also collaborates with the Supportive Housing Development Program to fund housing projects for special needs populations, including the homeless and disabled.U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) supports several programs that aim to increase the availability of affordable housing. Low-income renters in North Carolina may be able to secure reduced rent through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s subsidized apartments program. You can search for apartments near you that are eligible for HUD rental subsidization on the HUD website.Get Help Finding Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in North CarolinaIf you’re not sure where to begin searching for emergency rental assistance in North Carolina, United Way of North Carolina is a great place to start. Dial 2-1-1 for help finding housing assistance or other social services in your area.You might also find the information you’re looking for in one of our other emergency rental assistance resources.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

North Dakota Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Even though North Dakota emergency rental assistance programs are winding down across the state, many families’ financial needs remain. While your options may be a bit more restricted in 2025 than in past years, there are still plenty of ways to get emergency rental assistance as long as you know where to look. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!North Dakota Emergency Rental Assistance Programs Via the CAPND & HHSThe Community Action Partnership of North Dakota (CAPND) and Health and Human Services (HHS) both offer financial assistance programs for a variety of needs, several of which are centered on housing insecurity. Note that you won’t be receiving assistance directly from the CAPND. Rather, you’ll need to get in touch with your region’s Community Action Agency. The state of North Dakota is divided into eight regions, each region covering several counties. Visit your district’s agency or its corresponding website to fill out an application. If you’re eligible and the program has enough room, you should be accepted!Keep in mind that the North Dakota Rental Help (NDRH) general rental assistance program was a holdover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and has since been discontinued. The program stopped accepting applications in May of 2023. There are, however, other programs that are still open for applications, namely the eviction prevention assistance and re-housing assistance programs.Eviction Prevention AssistanceEviction prevention assistance is exactly what it says on the box. If you’re in danger of being evicted from your home, you can apply for financial assistance that’ll help you cover as many as 6 months of rent. To qualify for eviction prevention assistance, you must meet the following qualifications.You’re currently in danger of being evicted. Specifically, you’ve received an eviction or lease termination notice, or have been ordered to attend an eviction hearing within the next 30 days.You suffered financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.Your total household income is no more than 30% of your area’s median income. The exact number may be different depending on where in North Dakota you live, so take a quick look at the income limits before submitting your application.You’re currently renting a home, apartment, or other residence with a valid lease.If your application is accepted, you’ll receive money to pay off outstanding balances with your landlord if necessary. From there, you’ll receive monthly funds to pay rent for six months or until you’re no longer eligible for the program, whichever comes first. The program also offers financial and professional coaching to help you find a sustainable job and manage your money.Re-Housing AssistanceRe-housing assistance helps North Dakota families who are currently homeless find a place to live. This includes help with both locating and paying for a residence. To be eligible for re-housing assistance, you must meet the following criteria.You must currently be homeless. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re living on the streets, just that you don’t have a permanent residence of your own. If you’re currently couch-surfing with a friend or family member, for example, you may still be eligible for assistance.Same as with eviction prevention assistance, you must have suffered financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic, and must currently have an income that is below 30% of the area’s median income.You must spend most of your nights inside state boundaries.If you’re accepted into the program, you’ll receive money to pay for lease application fees and security deposits. In addition, you’ll receive as much as six months of rent assistance. Similar to eviction prevention assistance, this rent assistance may end early if you no longer meet the qualifications. Section 8 HousingIf North Dakota’s emergency rental assistance programs don’t work for you for one reason or another, you may want to consider Section 8 housing. Section 8 housing is a federal program that matches families in need with affordable living spaces. You’ll need to meet the qualifications and fill out an application, just as you would with state rental assistance. If you’d like to do more research on Section 8 housing, feel free to use our search tool to find a Public Housing Agency near you.Find Other Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in North DakotaThe sense of uncertainty that comes with financial insecurity is a scary thing. Nobody should have to worry about whether or not they’ll have a place to live by the next time rent is due, or skip meals to afford their next payment. The purpose of programs and organizations like these is to ensure that you don’t have to. No matter if you’re seeking emergency rental assistance programs in North Dakota or just struggling to pay rent, Affordable Housing Hub is here to help.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Ohio Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

If you, like many families and individuals living in Ohio, are currently experiencing financial hardship and can’t make rent, things may seem hopeless. We’re here to let you know that they absolutely aren’t. The next few months are likely going to be challenging for you, but as long as you know where to find help, you’ll be able to make it through just fine. If you aren’t yet sure about the resources available to you, we’ve got you covered! Here are a few of the basics on emergency rental assistance in Ohio.Emergency Rental Assistance in Ohio With the HUDThe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides nationwide resources to those in need of emergency rental assistance. One of their most easily accessible resources for those experiencing financial hardship is subsidized apartments. Subsidies are provided to landlords, allowing them to provide safe, relatively comfortable housing at affordable rates for low-income tenants.Note that while subsidized housing is more affordable, it’s not completely free. Unlike some emergency rental assistance programs in Ohio, you’ll still have to pay rent, albeit less than market rates. If you truly don’t have any money to spare to pay rent, subsidized housing may not be the right option for you.  By the same token, however, this does make subsidized housing a bit less difficult to get into. You’ll have to qualify as low-income, but you may not have to meet as many eligibility requirements as you would with some of the alternatives.he application process, if not easier, is at least a bit more familiar. Rather than getting in touch with an assistance agency’s representative, you simply have to apply for a lease at a subsidized apartment. The application process is largely the same, so with any luck, you’ll have a roof over your head very soon.County Housing ServicesKeep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to receive aid from the government. There are plenty of non-profits, churches, and other charitable organizations out there that may be able to provide you with emergency rental assistance. Of course, the jurisdiction of these local organizations is much smaller, so you’ll need to figure out which organizations operate in your area and reach out to them directly. If you need emergency rental assistance in Columbus, Ohio, for example, you’d be limited to Franklin County’s housing assistance services. The Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO) has a helpful map that lists resources and organizations throughout the state, so take a look and see what’s available in your area.Section 8 HousingJust as with any other state, Section 8 housing is always an option for Ohioans in need of emergency rental assistance. To get signed up for Section 8 housing, you’ll need to visit your local public housing agency. (PHA) Once there, you’ll be able to meet with an official to discuss your situation and needs. To be accepted, you’ll generally have to meet a few criteria.You must be a United States citizen. (With a few exceptions.)Your total household income must be below 50% of your area’s median income. However, you’ll be given much higher priority if your income is below 30% of the median. The median income varies widely between areas, so be sure to check the stats for your area beforehand.Keep in mind that many other households are also applying for emergency rental assistance, so you may not be able to get help right away. All accepted applications are put on a waitlist, and once your name reaches the top of the waitlist, you’ll receive your aid. Waitlists can be extremely long, so the HUD recommends applying to more than one PHA to increase your chances of getting the help you need.Keep in mind that the waitlist can be bypassed in more extreme cases, especially those involving homelessness. If you think Section 8 housing might be just what you need, we encourage you to use our search tool to find a PHA near you.Obtaining Emergency Rental Assistance in OhioBecause so many pandemic-era services providing emergency rental assistance in Ohio have ended, it can be a bit more difficult to get the aid you need. Affordable Housing Hub is dedicated to helping you find the resources you have at your disposal.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Oklahoma Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

There are several reasons why you might require rental assistance, and there’s no shame in seeking help. Whatever the cause of your financial hardship, emergency rental assistance in Oklahoma can help keep a roof over your head. The state offers options for people in various circumstances, and knowing what you qualify for is key to obtaining maximum aid.How Does Emergency Rental Assistance in Oklahoma Work?During the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Cares Partners (CCP) distributed aid to over 80,000 Oklahoma households. While this program is now closed, there are others designed to help those that have fallen on hard times.In most cases, applicants must demonstrate lost income or employment, or evidence of impending eviction. Different programs have different requirements, and so it’s important to review each option carefully. Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City & OK/CN CountiesThis organization offers rent and mortgage assistance funded by FEMA and the United Way. To receive aid, applicants must meet the following requirements:Household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.Late note provided by landlord, or a moorage statement showing late payments.Documented emergency exceeding $1 more than the rent/mortgage payment. Demonstrated ability to pay the next month’s rent/mortgage after the aid has paid.Not receiving Section 8 or public housing.Note that this program is only available to those living in Oklahoma or Canadian counties. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma CityOklahoma’s Catholic Charities program offers emergency rent and utility assistance to those experiencing temporary crisis. To qualify for utility help, applicants must present a current utility bill, proof of income, and some form of valid ID. Those seeking rental assistance are asked to provide a copy of their lease, as well as ID and proof of income. Addition requirements include:Being one of the first eight callers during the Monday morning call period.A past due rent notice with a copy of a current lease OR a utility bill with a past due or cut-off notice.Completing the intake program.Aid is available to each household once a year, with a maximum of three times total. Restore Hope MinistriesBased in Tulsa, Restore Hope provides emergency rental assistance in Oklahoma. They primarily work with people facing eviction or who have received late rent notices. Those who are about to be evicted should visit the Social Services Hub to connect with Restore Hope’s emergency rental assistance team in person. They can work alongside you to better understand your situation and guide you through your options during your time of crisis. If your needs are less urgent, you can follow these steps to apply for assistance:Schedule a screening call at 918-922-8282 to determine eligibility. You must live in Tulsa County and cannot have already received 15 months of rental assistance.Complete an intake packet.Call the number listed above to schedule a phone interview, where the Restore Hope team will check to ensure they have all necessary application information. Once your application is submitted, their team will review it and let you know whether or not you qualify. If you do, they will coordinate with your landlord for payment. The Grace Center of Southern OklahomaThe Grace Center’s rental assistance program serves those in Carter, Love, Murray, Marshall, and Johnston counties. To apply, applicants need simply call their office at 580-223-2027. They will then be asked to complete an application for emergency financial assistance.Rental assistant applicants are required to attend the Grace Center’s hour-long money management class. While the Grace Center pledges payment for all accepted applicants, they will only pay after households have attended the class. Upward TransitionsUpward Transitions offers emergency rental assistance in Oklahoma County. This short-term financial bridge can help prevent homelessness in vulnerable populations. To qualify for rental assistance, applicants must:Live in Oklahoma County.Have a 5-day notice to quit or eviction notice for their current address.Have minor children or seniors (55 and older) living in the home.Demonstrate proof of hardship.Provide proof of income or pending income. You can also qualify for utilities assistance through Upward Transitions by meeting the above requirements and presenting a cutoff notice. Compassionate HandsCompassionate Hands is a charity that serves those living in the Yukon area. To qualify for emergency rental assistance, you must live in the Yukon School District, provide any required documentation, and meet agency requirements.Applicants can learn more by calling at 405-354-9591. Explore Emergency Rental Assistance in Oklahoma With Our Handy GuidesWhen you’re struggling to pay rent, it can feel like the world is collapsing, but there is hope; there are organizations and resources out there ready to jump in and help you work towards a brighter future. For more information on emergency rental assistance in Oklahoma, visit the websites of the organizations listed above, or check out our rental assistance overview. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Coming up short on rent can be distressing to say the least. Thankfully, in the state of Oregon, there are plenty of resources to help those who may be struggling financially. Here’s what to know about emergency rental assistance in Oregon and the organizations dedicated to housing those in need. Who Qualifies for Emergency Rental Assistance in Oregon?Emergency rental assistance in Oregon is available to households that meet certain criteria, though these requirements vary by county and organization. Usually, eligibility is determined by income, personal circumstances, and risk of eviction. For most applications, you must provide:Proof of income.Proof of residency.Some form of valid ID.Many programs have online portals where you can apply, but some ask that applicants meet with them in person to discuss aid. ACCESS Rental ProgramThe ACCESS Rental Program is funded by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and is currently accepting applications for rental assistance. To qualify, your household income must be no more than 80% of the area median income (AMI). To learn more about their services, get in touch with the ACCESS Rent Relief team at 541-414-0317.Home ForwardHome Forward can be a great option for those seeking emergency rental assistance in Portland, Oregon. They offer a number of rental assistance programs, including:Regional Long-Term Rent Assistance Program (RLRA)Short-Term Rent Assistance Program (STRA)Moderate Rehabilitation Program (Mod-Rehab)Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (VASH)Eligibility is determined by household size and AMI. You can check here to see if you qualify.Catholic Charities of OregonCatholic Charities’ Housing Transitions Program (HTP) aims to remove housing barriers for childless women 25+ years old. This program helps with rental appeals and applications and can be a valuable resource for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. While not a traditional rental assistance program, HTP has helped hundreds of women secure stable housing and get on track to a brighter financial future.Salvation ArmyFor over 150 years, the Salvation Army has been helping people with services ranging from food to shelter. You can search here to find assistance in your area. The Portland-based Gresham Corps Community Center offers several services, such as:Gresham Music AcademyFamily ServicesChristmas AssistanceVolunteeringCommunity PartnersGive them a call at 503-661-8972 to learn more about rental assistance in Portland, Oregon and how they can help your household during your time of need.Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)TANF offers Oregon emergency rental assistance. The program is specifically designed for low-income families with children and distributes monthly cash payments to states for funding. Their goal is to support families while they work towards financial self-sufficiency. The amount they get depends on their income and the number of people in the household. Oregon’s TANF program requires that recipients:Have little to no income and assets.Be the parent or caregiver for a child 18 or younger OR be pregnant OR be 18 or younger and head of the household.After applying, they will schedule an appointment with you, either in person or over the phone. If you are approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card in the mail, also known as the Oregon Trail Card in Oregon.You can use this card to buy items or withdraw cash, and it can be extremely helpful for paying rent in an emergency situation. Section 8This federally-funded program provides affordable housing to low-income households. With Section 8, you can choose your own housing with government rental assistance. To qualify for Oregon’s Section 8 program, you must meet various income and citizenship requirements.This information determines the amount of money you can receive. It’s usually restricted to households that earn no more than 50% of the AMI, though certain exceptions are made for vulnerable populations. For example, an individual in Oregon qualifies for Section 8 housing if he or she makes $20,850 or less per year. A family of four can have a max income limit of $29,750, and an eight-person household is restricted to $39,300. These limits may change from year to year.How to ApplyIf you’re seeking rental assistance through Section 8, there are several steps you will need to take to apply:Determine your eligibility.Find your local housing authority. Get and complete the application.Submit the application online, in person, or by mail. Bear in mind that the application process for Section 8 can take weeks, or even months. While this may not be the best option for those facing immediate eviction, it can still be helpful for those struggling to keep up housing costs. Get Emergency Rental Assistance in Oregon TodayNo matter your situation, there are people and organizations who can help you through tough times. By thoroughly researching your options, you can find the program that’s right for your household and get on track to financial recovery. To learn more about emergency rental assistance in Oregon, check out the resources listed above, or view our guide on emergency rental assistance.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Pennsylvania Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

The fear of losing your home can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel worry. Whether due to a sudden job loss, medical emergency, or unforeseen personal setback, falling short on rent can be an incredibly distressing experience. However, with the help of an emergency rental assistance program in Pennsylvania, you can get back on your feet. What is the Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Pennsylvania?You may be surprised to learn there's not just one, but several rental assistance programs in Pennsylvania. Each serves different needs and populations, so it’s worth your while to explore them all. Like most states, Pennsylvania requires that applicants meet certain income criteria, though specific limits vary depending on the program in question.Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)Created at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, ERAP provides rent and utility assistance to Centre County residents. Here’s a look at some of their current eligibility criteria:Must be a renter.Must demonstrate that you are at risk of homelessness or housing instability. Gross income must not exceed 80% of Centre County’s area median income (AMI). Renters that provide eviction notices and/or utility terminations are more likely to be accepted than those that do not. ERAP also requires that applicants present the following documents:Valid form of ID.Annual or monthly household income documentation for everyone over 18.Copy of current lease.Eviction notice or court filing for an impending eviction.To contest a grant decision, applicants can submit a written request for appeal. Veteran’s Helping HandVeterans looking for an emergency rental assistance program in York, PA can apply for Veteran’s Helping Hand. Established by Sandy Walker, a Vietnam vet, this program provides immediate help with food, housing, and more to veterans in York County. Christian Churches United of the Tri-County AreaHELP Ministries, a branch of Christian Churches United, offers homelessness prevention and long-term housing solutions to Pennsylvanians. For immediate rental assistance, applicants are encouraged to call the HELP office at 717-238-2851 or email help@ccuhbg.org. If you are currently homeless, HELP might also be able to assist you with finding an apartment. They can pay the security deposit and initial rental payments while helping you get on track with case management and budget counseling.Allegheny Valley Association of ChurchesThis program provides emergency assistance to those in the Allegheny Valley area. They help with rent and utility payments, food, clothing, and more. Eligibility is limited to applicants at or below the 200% income poverty guideline.For example, an individual may not exceed $2,264 in gross monthly income, or $27,180 annually. The maximum limit for a family of four is $4,624 monthly and $55,499 per year. To learn more about this program, contact their assistance coordinator, Beth Kendra, at 724-226-0606. Bucks County Opportunity CouncilThe Bucks County Opportunity Council is a valuable emergency rental assistance program in Pennsylvania. In 2022 and 2023, the Bucks County Opportunity Council prevented over 400 evictions and moved 117 families out of homelessness. To qualify for aid through this program, applicants’ income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, which for Bucks County works out to be $60,000 for a household of four. If you’re a single mother facing homelessness, you may also qualify for their Pathways to Housing programs, which provide short-term housing assistance. To learn more about these programs, you can call 1-800-810-4434, or click here. Salvation Army The Salvation Army offers nationwide rent and utility assistance. The Lock Haven Corps Center offers housing aid, youth empowerment programs, and more. This can be a great option for those seeking a well-rounded program that does more than just keep people in homes. Section 8The Section 8 emergency rental assistance program in Pennsylvania is designed to help low-income households while promoting economic self-sufficiency. With rising housing costs in the state, many families and individuals are struggling to afford rent, and that’s where this program steps in.Income limits vary based on household size and other criteria, but are typically 50% of the AMI. Applicants must also be US citizens or legal residents and lack a criminal history involving drugs or violent offenses. You can expect this program to pay approximately the difference between 30% of your income and the fair market rent for your area, or the amount that landlords can reasonably charge for rent. Why Look For an Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Pennsylvania?When struggling to pay rent, you may feel that all hope is lost, but that is far from the case. While the application process can be challenging, seeking help is the best way to keep a roof over your head while you regain your financial composure. There’s no shame in receiving assistance, and it can put you on track to a better future.For help finding an emergency rental assistance program in Pennsylvania, see our rental assistance overview page. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Rhode Island Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Are you worried about making your next rent payment? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves worrying about their housing and financial situation each month. If you’re a resident of Rhode Island and you’re facing financial obstacles or hardship, rent can become a daunting challenge. Still, in many cases, assistance may be available. While the Eviction Prevention Assistance Program in Rhode Island has ended due to the depletion of funds, there are several other Rhode Island housing emergency rental assistance programs available depending on your circumstances and where you live. To better understand your options, it can be helpful to review some of the assistance programs available in Rhode Island for renters concerned about upcoming bills. RI Housing Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsHere are some of the emergency rental assistance programs available to help Rhode Island residents avoid housing instability.United Way of Rhode IslandUnited Way is a nonprofit organization made up of local affiliates around the world. For Rhode Islanders, the United Way of Rhode Island offers a confidential means to seek help with issues such as childcare, food, healthcare, and a range of other needs, including housing assistance. While United Way doesn’t offer assistance in the form of direct rent subsidies, the organization can help by connecting residents with local services and educating them about their options. They can also provide financial relief to people struggling with housing instability by offering tax preparation, legal assistance, job training, healthcare, and food. By getting help with these other common expenses, you may be able to make more room in your budget for rent costs.Reaching out is simple: you can either submit a self-referral form online here or call by phone at 211. Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThe Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federal assistance program that seeks to help low-income families, those who are disabled, and elderly residents afford housing through the use of vouchers that can be used to offset a portion of their rent. Formerly known as Section 8, this program offers vouchers administered through local public housing authorities, based on where you liveEligibility for the program hinges on a few factors, such as:Your total gross income and family size.Your citizenship or immigration status.Your area’s median income level.What’s more, public housing authorities must administer funds in accordance with the law which dictates that those whose income does not exceed 30% of the median income are to receive 75% of available vouchers. As such, even for otherwise eligible individuals, availability may hinge on their income relative to the median income. Your local public housing authority will be able to provide specifics, helping you understand your eligibility. If you’re eligible, you may be placed on a waiting list, unless assistance is immediately available. In Rhode Island, there are several public housing authorities who offer vouchers, and you can find a list of websites for Rhode Island housing authorities that offer vouchers here. Other Emergency Assistance Programs in Rhode IslandIf you are struggling to pay rent, you may also benefit from assistance with various other bills. Here are some programs that can help ease your financial burden.Good Neighbor Energy FundWhile not a direct form of rent assistance, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund is aimed at helping eligible residents receive assistance with their energy bills, which can reduce their overall financial burden related to housing. The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a community action program agency.Eligibility for the fund is determined by a few factors, including:Financial hardship.Household size.Whether you received GNEF assistance the year before.The utilities in question. Rhode Island Fair Housing - Housing Law CenterThe Housing Law Center, part of Rhode Island Legal Assistance, offers aid specifically for housing issues, such as defending evictions from subsidized housing, providing education and outreach, and participating in housing-related hearings. To get in touch, you can send a contact message here. Getting Help for Your HouseholdMaking rent is a big deal. It’s natural to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, and even fearful about losing your home. Still, there are assistance programs available for many renters. In Rhode Island, assistance programs include those offered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as well as those offered through United Way Rhode Island. If you’re concerned about making rent next month, or even the month after that, it may be time to consider reaching out for help. Remember, you don’t need to take this on alone. RI housing emergency rental assistance programs may be able to help you and your loved ones find a sense of comfort in the future. If you’re looking for more information, or you’re located in a different state, don’t hesitate to check out some more of our resources online — such as our rental assistance program overview. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

South Carolina Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

If you’re a resident of South Carolina and worried about making your next rent payment, you may be anxious about the future. That’s quite natural, and you’re not alone. Fortunately, there may be rental assistance programs available to you. To better understand, let’s explore some of the emergency rental assistance programs in South Carolina that may be available to you. SC Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsIn South Carolina, there are a number of assistance programs aimed at assisting those in need to ensure that they’ll be able to maintain housing. However, depending on where you live, options may vary.United Way Association of South Carolina The United Way is an international nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing assistance in the form of connecting those in need with local services. The United Way Association of South Carolina is an umbrella organization with many local United Way associations under it throughout South Carolina. Their website is a rich source of information, with search functionality based on your location where you can find nearby assistance programs and other organizations. Among these, there are numerous local organizations across South Carolina counties, and to find out if there’s a dedicated emergency rental assistance program in South Carolina near you, you can enter your address into the search bar on this page. South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing)The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority has a number of programs designed to improve housing in the state, including development initiatives. Importantly, for several counties that don’t have corresponding independent housing authorities, SC Housing oversees housing choice vouchers.If you’re searching for affordable housing, SC Housing offers a housing search tool that you can find here. If you’re interested in the Housing Choice Voucher Program and you live in a county that is overseen by SC Housing, you can find more information about the program here. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Rental AssistanceThe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides rental assistance federally, in the form of both Housing Choice Vouchers (formerly known as Section 8) and subsidized housing. They also offer public housing, which may be less applicable to those looking to remain where they are in the private market. To determine whether you’re eligible for subsidized rent, you can find a list of South Carolina public housing authorities here. Housing Choice VouchersHousing Choice Vouchers offer a means to remain in private housing but with subsidized rent. Your Local public housing authority will be able to give you specifics regarding your eligibility, but generally speaking, your household income must be 50% of the median income or lower, and public housing authorities are required to distribute 75% of available vouchers to those below 30% of the median income for the area. To determine your eligibility, you’ll need to find out what the median income is in your area, which can be provided by your local public housing authority. Public Housing Public housing is also offered by HUD, but is distinct mainly in that these are publicly owned properties, rather than subsidized private properties. In other words, rather than your landlord receiving a subsidy to lower your rent, you simply pay a reduced rate to the public housing authority. The Salvation Army of Greenville, Pickens, and Oconee Counties, SCIf you’re seeking emergency rental assistance in Greenville SC, The Salvation Army may be worth reaching out to. The Salvation Army of Greenville, Pickens, and Oconee Counties offers emergency financial assistance to help out those in need, including with expenses such as rent. In addition to emergency financial assistance for rent, they offer other services, so even if you find that you’re not eligible, they may be able to help in other ways. You can find out more by visiting their website here, where you’ll find an online application form for assistance. Additional Considerations Depending on where you’re located, there may be additional services available to you. You can check with The United Way’s online 2-1-1 service, where you can search for various resources and programs based on your location to get started. Additionally, consider calling or contacting your local municipality online to inquire. Getting Help for Your HouseholdWorrying about housing can be incredibly stressful. It’s natural to feel worried about how you will pay upcoming bills — especially rent! But, remember, you’re not alone. Many individuals and families go through this challenge, and there are many programs that seek to offer assistance. Depending on your specific circumstances and where you live, it may be a matter of reaching out and applying for assistance. If you’re looking for additional information or resources relevant to other states, be sure to check out our other informational resources online here. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

South Dakota Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Many individuals and families find themselves wondering how they will make their next month of rent, and there are many assistance programs that aim to ease this burden. If you’re a resident of South Dakota and seeking assistance with rent, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve gathered this actionable guide to some of the assistance programs that may be available to you and some of the resources you can consult to learn more. Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in South DakotaHere are some of the most popular statewide emergency rental assistance programs available to residents of South Dakota.HUD Housing Choice VouchersThrough the federal government’s Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), eligible families and individuals may be able to receive rental assistance in the form of housing choice vouchers. These allow individuals to find affordable rental properties in the private market, giving them a range of choices in where they might live. Housing choice vouchers are paid to landlords directly through the program, though renters must qualify based on their level of income relative to the local median income, as well as their immigration status, and household size. While local median incomes can vary, the general basic requirements include that your household income is at or less than 50% of the median and that you meet criteria regarding household size and immigration status. What’s more, it’s important to understand that these are overseen by and issued through local public housing authorities. In order to apply, you’ll need to contact your local housing authority, determine the local median income, and see if you’re eligible. If you are, you can apply through the public housing authority for that area. For a list of public housing authorities in South Dakota, you can visit HUD’s website here.  United Way in South DakotaUnited Way is a nonprofit organization with a number of smaller associations under it. In South Dakota, there are several United Way Associations, of which you can find a full list here. While United Way is, itself, not a rental assistance program, they are dedicated to helping individuals and families connect with relevant resources for a number of reasons, including rental assistance and other housing issues. You can contact your local United Way association to learn more about the resources available to you, including whether there are any specific local rental assistance programs. South Dakota Helpline CenterLike United Way, this isn’t directly a rental assistance program, but the South Dakota Helpline Center offers a range of resources designed to support South Dakotans — be it for mental health, general support, or even finding rental assistance. They can be reached by dialing 211 via phone, and they offer a number of resources designed to help. USDA Rural Housing Section 515The USDA subsidizes a number of homes throughout the country, including many in South Dakota. For renters, it may be possible to find subsidized housing through the program. One of the eligibility requirements includes your income level, which must be sufficiently below the median income for your local area. The Helpline Center has a link to the USDA website, where you can enter a desired address or area and see eligibility requirements. You can find this search tool here. Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) ProgramThe Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program, is aimed at assisting homeless or near-homeless individuals, and is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Eligible individuals can apply via the South Dakota Housing website.SD CARESIf you’ve been impacted by the Covid19 Pandemic, you may be eligible for assistance through the SD CARES program. This program offers housing assistance — including for renters — and is funded through federal Covid relief efforts. You can learn more about the program, including eligibility requirements, how to apply, and a link to a frequently asked questions page on South Dakota Housing’s website here. Getting Help for Your FamilyWorrying about bills is one thing — but it can feel like another, entirely, when said bills will impact whether or not you have a place to stay when you sleep. Worrying about rent can be understandably nerve-wracking. Fortunately, there are often a number of means to seek assistance, ranging from local initiatives to federally funded programs. Often, the key to finding the right solution for you is learning more about what’s available. Remember, though, you don’t need to take this on alone. There are resources available to help you find assistance, whether it’s through a local public housing authority, or through a federal agency such as the USDA. If you’re interested in learning about assistance in other states, don’t hesitate to check out more of our resources online, including our rental assistance program overview. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Tennessee Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Worrying about your rent being due soon and knowing you may come up short can be a stressful and scary thought. For residents of Tennessee, however, there may be assistance available, depending on your location, eligibility, and circumstances. Rental assistance programs aim to help individuals and households avoid eviction, and they can vary in their eligibility requirements and scope. To learn more, let’s review some of the resources and assistance programs that may be available to you if you’re a resident of Tennessee. Tennessee Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsThese programs are available across the state of Tennessee to help people struggling with financial hardship. They can help with emergency rental assistance, housing stability, and offering resources to help you make ends meet.Emergency Rental Assistance – Eviction Prevention Program The Emergency Rental Assistance – Eviction Prevention Program (ERA-EPP) is aimed at providing those who are facing eviction with the resources needed to avoid eviction and stabilize rented households. It’s overseen by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency, a state agency dedicated to housing issues such as development stability and preserving housing for low-income individuals and households. ERA-EPP is available to eligible individuals and households to assist with costs such as rental assistance, landlord and tenant mediation, late fees, security deposits, utility deposits, rental application fees, and other costs crucial to renting. For eligible participants, it may be able to reduce barriers to avoiding eviction or finding housing. While it’s broadly overseen by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA), it’s administered through local agencies, a list of which can be found here. You can contact your local agency to inquire about availability and eligibility if you believe you may qualify. HUD Housing Choice Vouchers ProgramAvailable through local public housing authorities, but broadly overseen and funded by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Agency (HUD), housing choice vouchers aim to subsidize rent for tenants in the private market, enabling them to enjoy a greater range of choices in their living situation. Importantly, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements — including meeting the threshold for household income, immigration or citizenship status, and household size. Generally, those who are at 50% or less than the median household income are eligible, but median incomes vary by municipalities and localities. In order to determine what your local median household income is and whether you qualify, you may need to consult with your local public housing authority who can provide specifics regarding eligibility. To find a list of Tennessee's local public housing agencies, you can visit this page. Public housing agencies must ensure that 75% of available vouchers are given to households below or at 30% of the median income, so availability may vary. If you’re eligible and there is not assistance available, you may be placed on a waiting list. United Way of TennesseeUnited Way is a nonprofit organization with agencies all over the country, dedicated to providing support and resources to those in need. They offer a 211 line that you can call confidentially to receive support and resources. They can help you understand if there are assistance programs available in your area, and if so, they can provide you with contact information. You can learn more about Tennessee United Way’s 211 line on their website here. Alternatively, if you’re in Tennessee, you can simply dial 211 to speak with a representative. They may be able to connect you with localized services in your area, such as if you’re seeking an emergency rental assistance program in Memphis TN, specifically. Southwest Human Resource Agency for West TennesseeThe Southwest Human Resource Agency is a nonprofit organization serving counties in the West Tennessee region, and they have an emergency rent program service that you may be eligible for. Note that this program is a one-time assistance, and thus will not constitute ongoing support. However, for some tenants who are worried about imminent eviction in the short term, this may be a viable option for seeking support. Eligibility hinges on a few factors, such as your income level, whether your household contains a qualifying individual (a disabled person, a person over the age of 60 years, or a child under the age of 6), or if you’re experiencing a qualifying uncontrolled circumstance. Since SWHRA services west Tennessee, this also may be less applicable for those seeking emergency rental assistance in Nashville TN, for example. You can learn more about this program, including eligibility requirements and contact information to reach out at their website here.  Getting Help for Your Tennessee HomeWhen you’re worried about upcoming bills, it can quickly become overwhelming. When the bills in question impact your ability to maintain a roof over your head, it’s natural to feel anxious and even frustrated. Remember, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are a number of programs available to help. Depending on where you live, your specific circumstances, and other factors, you may be eligible for assistance. Remember — you don’t need to take this on alone. For more information and resources, be sure to check out our website, including our emergency rental assistance overview. 

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Texas Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

If you’re worried about an upcoming rent payment, it’s natural to experience a range of challenging emotions — ranging from frustration and anxiety to despair. However, for some residents, assistance may be available in Texas. If you’re looking for emergency rental assistance in Texas, read on. We’ll explore some of the resources that may be available. Texas Emergency Rental Assistance Information ProgramsHere are a few programs that can help you in your search for emergency rental assistance programs in your area of Texas.Apartment AssociationThe Texas Apartment Association offers resources to help Texans in need connect with and learn about potential rental assistance and other support programs in the state. You can find information on their website regarding finding assistance on this page. Texas 211Texas 211, from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, is designed to help Texans in need connect with services and resources for a number of reasons. Ranging from assistance with crises and emergencies to financial and housing assistance, the program is designed to help those in need find means of assistance and programs or organizations that can help support them. You can visit their website to learn more here, or simply dial 211 if you’re in Texas. ConnectATXConnectATX is a portal that Austin residents can use to find resources near them, including, potentially, rental assistance programs. Popular Emergency Rental Assistance Programs in TexasHere are some emergency rental assistance programs available in certain areas and across the state of Texas.Harris County Housing and Community DevelopmentHarris County’s Office of Housing and Community Development is aimed at helping residents of Harris County, including Houstonians, find assistance and support in housing and community matters. If you’re looking for rental assistance in Houston TX, they may have resources to help you get started. They offer a Rental/Mortgage Assistance program that can help connect you with one-time assistance for emergency rent support. You can apply on their website by clicking the large red button to your left on this page. Qualifications might include having a valid state or federal ID, being below 80% of the median income in Harris County, residing in Harris County, presenting a valid W9 from your landlord, proof of income, and more. To learn more or find out if you’re eligible, you can reach the Harris County Social Services Department at 713 696-7900. You can also visit their website to learn more. City of San AntonioIf you’re located in San Antonio, you may be looking for specific emergency rental assistance in San Antonio TX. The City of San Antonio offered rental assistance to eligible individuals and households through the Housing Assistance Program (HAP), aimed at easing burdens associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. While the program is closed as of May 24, 2024, if you have an active application already, you can check the status of it on their website here. If you’re seeking financial relief that could help you get back on your feet and make your next rent bill indirectly, you may be interested in the CPS Energy Utility Assistance and the Affordability Discount Program Application. You can apply for this program online. Archdiocese of San AntonioTexans can find resources through the Archdiocese of San Antonio. The archdiocese may be able to help you with services, financial assistance, or contact information for your nearest archdiocese for more resources.HUD Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThe Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program aims to ease burdens associated with rent costs through subsidies paid directly to private landlords and may be available to eligible Texans. You can review information on the program on The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs website.To qualify, however, you may need to meet certain requirements, such as not exceeding 50% of the median household income for your area, certain citizenship or immigration status requirements, your household size, and more. It’s administered through public housing authorities.Additionally, the Veteran Assistance Supportive Housing (VASH) Program combines the Housing Choice Voucher program with services from the VA in order to support Texas veterans seeking rental assistance. Getting Help for Your Texas HomeWorrying about rent can be a challenging ordeal. It’s natural to experience stress, frustration, and even fear, as you worry about losing your home or becoming evicted. Remember, though, you’re not alone. There may even be assistance programs available to you that you’re eligible for, depending on your circumstances, where you live, income level, and other important factors. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to check out more of our resources, including our struggling to pay rent overview. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Utah Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Throughout the rollback of the Emergency Rental Assistance program (ERA) in 2023, many residents of Utah lost access to funding that helped support their housing situation. However, if you are struggling to pay rent, options are still available. Today, emergency rental assistance in Utah comes in a few different forms.Utah Community ActionFor renters in Utah, Utah Community Action offers some of the simplest paths to financial assistance. Those who are unable to pay their rents or begin a lease due to unexpected financial hardship can apply for assistance in making such payments.Perspective applicants can expect to fill out an online application that will be reviewed by a Community Action team member. Someone will respond within a few business days with any corrections that may need to be made to your application. After any necessary edits have been completed, and you have been proven to qualify for assistance, Community Action will help you schedule a phone appointment with a case manager who will ensure that you will be receiving the appropriate amount of financial assistance.HEAT Utility AssistanceSometimes, a renter’s need goes beyond paying for their rent alone. In this case, renters in Salt Lake City and Tooele Counties can turn to HEAT Utility Assistance. This program is intended to help local residents pay for their essential utilities, including gas and electricity.In order to qualify for HEAT assistance, residents must prove that they make under 150% of the federal poverty level. Precedence for approval is given to the elderly, disabled, and families with children under the age of six.Additional Rental Assistance in Salt Lake CityFor renters residing within the Salt Lake City area, more rental assistance resources are available.The Salt Lake City Council has compiled a list of partners that can provide legal assistance and representation to those facing eviction or homelessness. Different partners may be more available to you based on your current legal status, Veteran status, and other situational factors.Salt Lake City also hosts Renter Resource fairs throughout the year to help immediately connect renters with essential support systems. The Salt Lake City Council’s main webpage is often updated with the most current information regarding resource fairs and tablets.Salt Lake City Housing Stability DivisionIn addition to their other programs, Salt Lake City has its own Housing Stability Division. This group centers around preventing homelessness in Salt Lake City and connecting residents with various resources to help keep them in stable housing. Their webpage offers a number of materials regarding renting in the city, as well as information regarding other housing stability programs.On top of this, the Housing Stability Division offers guidance on accessing a range of other initiatives available to Salt Lake City residents, such as substance abuse recovery.Federal Renter AssistanceWhile there are plenty of programs within the state of Utah that can help support renters, it is important not to forget the federal initiatives that aim towards the same goal.Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)If your family is in need of financial assistance in order to remain housed, you may qualify for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. This initiative was created to help families with minor children sustain stable living conditions and support children towards future success. To find out if your family qualifies for TANF and see where your nearest access point is, you can check out U.S. Department of Human and Health Service’s interactive map.USDA Housing AssistanceFor some, home ownership is the ultimate goal for themselves and their families. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recognizes that achieving that goal in rural areas can be difficult. If you are working towards home ownership in rural areas of Utah, you may be eligible to receive financial support from the USDA Housing Assistance program. These funds are intended to help permanently house residents and families in rural parts of the country. With several different grant and loan programs currently running, be sure to explore all available options to determine which may be right for you.No matter where you live in Utah, you deserve to feel confident in your housing situation. If you find yourself falling behind on rental payments, emergency rental assistance in Utah is available. For more information about rental support resources, check out our Rental Assistance Overview.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

As of June 30th, 2023, the Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program (VERAP) officially closed its doors.  Established to help alleviate the pandemic's economic impact, the VERAP offered relief for various expenses, including ongoing rent payments, utility payments, and other housing-related costs, including moving expenses, legal fees, and health and safety repairs.The program's closure has left many individuals and families searching for alternative avenues for securing housing and utility assistance. While this situation may be disheartening, there are still various other ways to access support for housing and utilities. We’re providing several suggestions and links to resources to help you navigate this transition.Evictions in Vermont and Your RightsIn the face of eviction, you have rights, including the right to raise defenses to an eviction and ensure that your landlord follows the correct legal procedures. To maintain these rights, you must respond in writing to any court documents you receive from your landlord or their lawyer. Every document requiring a written response has a deadline, ranging from five to 30 days. Don't delay in seeking assistance if you need it.The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides a comprehensive page with multiple sources for eviction help, including housing counseling and several legal resources. It also lists the steps to take if you believe you have become a victim of illegal discrimination. Section 8 Subsidized Housing ProgramVermont offers subsidies to help low-income renters. These subsidies provide financial assistance for housing costs and are primarily funded by the federal government. The money is distributed to local housing authorities and landlords, who then use it to lower the rent for qualified individuals.To apply for a subsidy, you'll need to contact housing authorities, specific project owners, or the Vermont Department for Children and Families. Keep in mind that there may be waiting lists at some locations, so it's a good idea to apply to several places.For those looking for subsidized housing options in Vermont, use the following resources. The Vermont Housing Finance Agency's has a directory of affordable rental housing. The Champlain Housing Trust's list of affordable rentals in certain counties can be helpful.The Vermont State Housing Authority's website enables you to explore subsidy opportunities. Emergency/General AssistanceIf you're facing an emergency and struggling to meet basic needs, the Vermont Department for Children and Families offers a valuable resource through its Emergency/General Assistance program. This program provides support to individuals in urgent need.To qualify, you must have an emergency need and lack the income or resources to address it on your own. If your application is approved, the program can assist with various needs, including housing, fuel, utilities, medical expenses, personal items, and burial costs.To apply for assistance, simply visit your local district office, and they will guide you through the application process.Homeless Shelters and Emergency HousingMany local organizations are collaboratively working together in Vermont to support people and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. These organizations can assist you in finding housing options and connecting you with community resources.In certain Vermont towns, churches, agencies, and organizations run winter warming shelters to provide temporary shelter during the colder months. If you require shelter during the winter, contacting 2-1-1 or visiting Vermont211.org can help you identify warming shelters in your area.To access this support network, you can contact the lead agency in your county or region through the Housing and Homeless Alliance of Vermont.Additionally, Vermont211.org serves as a valuable platform for obtaining information about available shelters in the state and rental housing assistance. Heat, Energy, and Power Assistance ProgramsVermont offers various programs to assist renters with power, fuel, heat, and weatherization, helping them save money by prioritizing rent payments and avoiding eviction. Vermont’s Legal Help Website provides an updated listing of resources available to help ease the financial burden and ensure you stay warm and safe during the colder months.Learn more about getting help in the following areas.Electricity costsDiscounts for your natural gas billFuel assistanceRepair or replacement of fuel tanksWeatherization assistanceEnergy-efficient furnace and appliance rebatesAlso, usa.gov provides information on government programs that can help you pay your phone, internet, or energy bills.Finding Solutions for Rental Assistance in VermontWhile the closure of the Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program may present challenges, you can still remain proactive and explore alternative avenues for obtaining support with housing and utilities. By taking advantage of the resources and options available, you can navigate this transition and secure the assistance you need to maintain stable housing.Stay informed and connected with the Affordable Housing Hub, a dedicated platform that provides valuable resources, tools, and information on affordable housing solutions. Explore our website for articles, guides, and updates on housing assistance programs in Vermont.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Virginia Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Why do you love living in Virginia? Is it the beautiful forests? The historical sites? Is it where you were born and raised? Being a Virginian can be a challenge, considering the cost of living is above average in the country, but we know the Old Dominion State has much to offer.With the rise in the cost of living across the country, emergency rental assistance is becoming more of a necessity for Americans each day. Emergency rental assistance in Virginia may be the resource you need to be able to not only stay in Virginia but also thrive there.Finding Emergency Rental Assistance in VirginiaEmergency rental assistance usually serves as a one-time use resource that helps those in crisis pay their rent for just one month. One resource for finding emergency rental assistance in Virginia is the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which provides an itemized table of resources you can use for emergency rental assistance across the state by county. For example, the contact for finding emergency rental assistance in Richmond, VA is the Homeless Connection Line. Additionally, a service you may be able to apply for is the Virginia Rent Relief Program. This program exists to provide emergency rental assistance to Virginians who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had long-lasting effects on the economy and people’s ability to pay rent. Both tenants and landlords are eligible to apply.Depending on your region of residence, you may also want to check out the Virginia Housing and Supportive Services emergency rental assistance program. This program is available to low-income residents of the Northern Virginia area. Their site also provides a variety of other forms of assistance such as food assistance and financial counseling.Other resources are available to those who live in specific counties; for example, Fairfax County has their own emergency rental assistance program for residents of Fairfax who meet certain eligibility requirements. Loudoun County also offers their residents mortgage and rental assistance programs, which you can view on their website.Housing assistance was recently studied across the state of Virginia in the HB854 Statewide Housing Study, and in Chapter 21 Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention, the writers include a list of several programs provided across the state, including the State Rental Assistance Program, which serves the developmentally disabled population, the Virginia Eviction Reduction Pilot (VERP), which mediates communication between landlords and tenants, and more.Where Else Can I Turn?One of the biggest challenges the state and initiatives face in the housing crisis is the long wait list, which means that even if you apply for one of these programs today, you may not be helped for quite some time. In the meantime, you may be able to contact some local charities, non-profits, or churches in your area for immediate assistance.Many churches and religious charities around the country fundraise throughout the year for people like you who may be down on your luck and need immediate help. You may be inclined to contact your local church to see if they may be able to help you, but we also understand that not everyone would feel comfortable utilizing resources from religious organizations.Some other options available to you may include your local Habitat for Humanity or United Way, which are both secular organizations.On a national level, several initiatives are in place to reduce evictions and homelessness such as the Veterans Affairs Homeless Programs, available to veterans across the country. The National Low Income Housing Coalition also provides resources for all areas in the country, so using their search engine, you may discover that relocating may be the best option available for you at this time.Other Payment Assistance Available to VirginiansWhile emergency rental assistance in Virginia may not be as immediate as you would hope, other options for cutting costs and making ends meet are available. For example, HUD provides a locator for subsidized housing as well as housing counseling, completely free of charge. HUD may also be able to help you pay your utility bills with their Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Above all else, we want you to know that we are here to support you throughout this journey, and you are not alone. Although it is tough, we encourage you to take advantage of your resources, including the team at Affordable Housing Hub!

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Washington Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Struggling to pay your bills is a nightmare, and finding that you can’t pay the rent for your home or apartment might just be the worst. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to find emergency rental assistance in Washington State. What is Emergency Rental Assistance and How Do I Qualify?Emergency rental assistance is a term that describes any program, whether run by Washington State or by a private organization, that helps renters pay their bills in a crisis. If you are facing eviction notices, these programs can help you. If you qualify, they will offer funding to temporarily alleviate your situation so you can focus on the next steps.Qualifying for emergency rental assistance will depend on the individual organization’s rules and regulations. Programs will be more likely to provide aid to the elderly, families with children, the disabled, and anyone in an immediate crisis. To know whether or not you qualify for rental assistance, check out the website for the program you are interested in.Where Do I Find Emergency Rental Assistance?In Washington State, finding emergency rental assistance is pretty easy. From state-run programs to local charities and churches, there is always a program that can help. Many of these programs run on an application basis, meaning you have to send in an application and they will determine whether or not you qualify for assistance and whether they have enough funding to meet everyone’s needs. With that said, we recommend applying to several different programs in case the one you are interested in has limited funding.Rental Assistance by Region in WAThe best way to find rental assistance in Washington State is to search online for both state-wide and local organizations to apply for funding from. For ease, here are some of the Washington State programs by region.Western Washington: Emergency Rental Assistance in Vancouver, WAIf you live in or near Vancouver, WA, here are some great local programs for emergency rental assistance:Housing Solutions Center - This organization offers rent assistance on an individual basis. Contact their hotline to find out if funding is available.Society of St. Vincent de Paul - This charity has limited funding, and they begin taking applications on most Wednesdays at 10:00 AM. See their website for details.211info - For those in southwest Washington, this nonprofit organization connects you with rent payment assistance programs near you. Each program will have its application and requirements, so check out the website of the one you’re interested in to learn more.Central Washington: Emergency Rental Assistance in Tri-Cities, WAFor residents in the Tri-Cities area of Washington, below are some programs that can help:Richland And/OR Tri-Cities Consortium Funds - This program is for people living in Richland, Pasco, or Kennewick, WA, and requiring rental assistance because of COVID-19. If this fits your situation, you may qualify for funding from Richland’s CDBG COVID-19 and/or Tri-Cities Consortium TBRA HOME Funds.Benton Franklin Community Action Committee - This organization provides emergency assistance to those who lack both sufficient financial resources and support networks to retain housing. Head to their website for contact information.Tri-Cities Housing Resources - This handy document provides you with a complete list of housing resources in the Tri-Cities area. Check out the organizations listed to see if they can help.Eastern Washington: Emergency Rental Assistance in Spokane, WAIt’s simple to find emergency rental assistance in Spokane, WA or the eastern WA region. Here are a few different programs for residents in these areas:City of Spokane - This resource from the City of Spokane connects residents within city limits and those in the county with organizations offering emergency rental assistance. The Spokane Housing Authority, Resource Center of Spokane, Carl Maxey Center, and more may be available to help.Family Promise of Spokane - This charitable organization provides housing support for families. In addition to emergency housing and eviction prevention, they provide emergency rental assistance. To qualify for their programs, however, you must be an adult who is caring for a child. If that’s you, get in touch with them to see if they can help.New Hope Resource Center - For residents in Spokane and the surrounding areas, this charity offers a range of assistance programs, with emergency housing and rental assistance being just one of them. If you require help, you can just fill out the application and take it to their office.State-Wide Emergency Rental Assistance in WAIn addition to regional and local organizations, there are state-wide emergency rental assistance programs. These are usually far less limited in funding than local organizations, but they may require more documentation when submitting an application for assistance.211 - This community service connects residents in Washington State with emergency assistance of all kinds. With their easy-to-use portal, you can find dozens of rental assistance programs throughout the state. Check it out here.DSHS Emergency Programs - Within the DSHS, the Economic Services Administration of Washington State runs an Emergency Cash Assistance program that can help you with your rent. To qualify, you need to meet the requirements for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, State Family Assistance, or Refugee Cash Assistance, as well as have an emergency housing need, and have a good reason that you had insufficient funds to pay your rent. See the website for details.Treasury Rent Assistance Program - Set up as an aid for those at risk of eviction because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program is run by the federal government and the State of Washington. It offers emergency rental assistance to those who qualify. See our resource for more information.Additional ResourcesFor those in need of emergency rental assistance, Washington State offers many different options, both public and private. Want to know more about emergency rental assistance? See our resource here.If you are struggling to pay rent, we outline several different options that can help.

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

West Virginia Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

For those that have fallen on hard times, paying the rent can be difficult, if not impossible. The good news is there are a plethora of resources designed to help West Virginia residents in crisis. In this guide, we’ll discuss WV emergency rental assistance and what options are available for renters in 2025.How Does West Virginia Emergency Rental Assistance Work?In West Virginia, emergency rental aid is determined by numerous factors, such as:IncomeHousehold sizeCitizenship statusRisk of homelessnessDifferent programs have different eligibility criteria. For example, some programs serve families, while others help individuals in need. Whatever your situation, there’s a program out there to help.West Virginia Bureau for Family AssistanceThis emergency assistance program helps families and individuals with rent, utilities, food, and more. Assistance is limited to a consecutive 30-day period during any 12 consecutive months. To learn more about this program, contact your local Department of Human Services office, which you can find here. Housing and Urban Development (HUD)If you’re struggling to pay rent, check out West Virginia’s HUD resources. This program offers various types of aid, including subsidized apartments. One thing to note, however, is that many HUD programs have waiting lists, so if you are facing immediate eviction, you may want to look elsewhere for short-term help. EnAct Community ActionEnAct Community Action’s emergency assistance program helps with utilities and rent. They will pay one utility bill per year and require applicants to make a $25 good faith payment. To receive rental assistance, applicants must have a court-ordered eviction. You can qualify once in a 12-month period. Click here to apply. Catholic Charities West VirginiaCatholic Charities offers emergency financial assistance to those facing eviction or utility termination. To qualify, applicants must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. In addition to providing short-term financial aid, Catholic Charities provides resources to help renters avoid future crises.Covenant HouseCovenant House of West Virginia offers different service programs for people in need while driving social change through advocacy. They provide emergency assistance to low and no-income individuals who are facing eviction. For more information, applicants are encouraged to contact program director Tonda Johnson at tjohnson@wvcovenanthouse.org. Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army offers different types of aid for those in need. Their rent assistance program is designed to help people around the country avoid eviction and get back on their feet. The Charleston Area Command offers a wide range of social services, including: ClothingRent and utility payment assistanceYouth servicesFinancial assistanceHygiene suppliesSenior citizen servicesTo receive utility assistance, applicants must present bills in the name of an adult currently living in the household. Rental assistance is available to those with an eviction notice. This aid is available by appointment only.Section 8West Virginia’s Section 8 housing program is another great option for those seeking short-term rent relief. Over 55,000 households in the state rely on Section 8 support, making it one of the largest emergency assistance programs.How Do I Qualify?To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:Income: Your income must be at or below 50% of the area median income (AMI) for your household size. Household Size: Section 8 funding limits vary depending on the size of your household. Generally speaking, the more people you have living under your roof, the more you will receive. Citizenship Status: As of 2025, this program is only available to US citizens and legal immigrants, though certain non-citizens may also qualify.Criminal History: Those with drug-related or violent offenses may be ineligible for Section 8 benefits.How Much Can I Get?The amount of assistance you can receive depends on the fair market rate (FMR). It is calculated as a percentage and usually ranges from 90 to 110%. For instance, if the local FMR is $1,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, applicants may qualify for total coverage.How Do I Apply?Applying for WV emergency rental assistance through Section 8 is a multi-step process:Determine your eligibilityObtain and complete an applicationSubmit the applicationWait for a responseAs part of your application, you will need to submit several required documents, including proof of income and household size. If you are deemed eligible, you will be put on a waiting list. West Virginia housing authorities oversee and manage waiting lists. To view housing authorities in the state, feel free to use our housing authority search tool. Find WV Emergency Rental Assistance TodayStruggling to pay rent can take a financial and emotional toll on households. However, with rent assistance programs, renters can make payments while finding ways to recover. Federal, state, and local organizations exist to provide assistance to those in need, and it’s always a good idea to research your options. To learn more about WV emergency rental assistance, check out the resources listed above. Be sure to browse our rental assistance guide, where we cover everything from short-term rental help to finding housing for those with disabilities. 

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

Though much of the pandemic is over, many of the effects are still hanging over Wisconsin residents. Some are still struggling with the financial instability that lockdowns caused. These challenges can make it incredibly difficult to keep up with rent payments. To help citizens maintain stable housing, several Wisconsin emergency rental assistance programs emerged. Each organization aids renters during difficult times by providing financial housing assistance. If you're a Wisconsin resident, it's important to be aware of the emergency assistance options available in your area.Available Wisconsin Emergency Rental AssistanceWisconsin's emergency rental assistance programs provide financial support to renters throughout the state. Those who have experienced job losses, reduced hours, and health challenges may find aid through one of these programs. Each may cover past-due, current, and future rent payments, utilities, and other housing costs. The goal of these programs is to prevent evictions and ensure safe, stable housing for vulnerable families.To the dismay of Wisconsin residents, the main emergency rental assistance programs are no longer open. These include the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance (WERA) Program and the Veterans Rental Assistance Program (VRAP). Fortunately, there are several programs that Wisconsin residents can still access for help.Wisconsin Department of Children and FamiliesThe Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) focuses on protecting children and their families. Some of the organization's programs include housing assistance. Such resources provide emergency assistance to families facing various housing emergencies. These could be financial strain, domestic violence, or natural disasters. In addition, DCF also offers resources specifically for unhoused individuals. Through them, these organizations can better combat homelessness throughout the state.WHEDA Housing Choice Voucher ProgramThe WHEDA (Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority) Housing Choice Voucher Program is also known as Section 8. This program provides rental assistance options for low-income families, disabled individuals, and seniors. Qualified participants receive housing vouchers that help them cover the cost of renting a home. This program aims to help Wisconsin residents afford safe, reliable housing. Section 8 ensures that an income-based portion of qualifying rents are covered by the program. The tenant covers the rest of their housing costs according to what they can afford.Community Advocates Rental Assistance ProgramsCommunity Advocates' Rental Assistance Programs exist throughout the state. Each one is designed to provide Wisconsin residents with housing assistance. Programs include the City of Milwaukee Rental Housing Stability Fund and the Waukesha County Emergency Rental Assistance Program. These programs aim to provide temporary emergency rental assistance to locals in need. Through programs and resources, community advocacy groups like these help combat homelessness. Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource CenterThe Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center offers services and resources for emergency rental assistance in Wisconsin. Both renters and landlords in Milwaukee can seek support through this organization. Services like housing resource referrals, tenant-landlord mediation, and legal aid are available. The center connects residents with organizations that can ensure they receive affordable housing.211 Wisconsin211 Wisconsin is an information service that's both confidential and free to use. The service connects Wisconsin residents with resources and programs they can apply for in order to receive various types of aid. Such program options include those that help with housing, food, healthcare, and social services. Residents can either dial 2-1-1 or visit the 211 Wisconsin website to access information and find referrals. Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP)The Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP) combats housing instability and other challenges that Wisconsin citizens face. SWCAP offers an array of helpful community services. Some of these include housing assistance, food programs, energy assistance, and employment support. Each program aims to support individuals and their families as they seek stable living conditions.Who Qualifies for Emergency Rental Assistance?Each program has its own set of qualification requirements. In general, though, most programs are going to ask for at least one of these criteria to be met.Low or Moderate Income: Qualifying households may need to receive income that is either at or below 80% of the area's median income (AMI).Pandemic Impact: Some organizations still offer aid for applicants experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19.At-risk Individuals: Priority is often given to households facing eviction or homelessness.Accessing Wisconsin Emergency Rental AssistanceWisconsin's Emergency Rental Assistance organizations work to provide residents with a lifeline. If you need emergency rental assistance in Wisconsin, take time to carefully explore the state's various programs. Check eligibility requirements and review the application process before you begin. Once you apply, provide your chosen organization with any supplemental documents you have. By qualifying for these programs, you can secure safe and affordable housing in Wisconsin.For more resources to aid your search for affordable housing in Wisconsin, check out the guides and open waiting lists on the Affordable Housing Hub.

4 min readEmergency Rental Assistance

Wyoming Emergency Rental Assistance: 2025 Application Guide

With the fallout from the recent COVID-19 pandemic and its associated economic downturn, making ends meet has become very difficult. Sometimes, it becomes impossible. When your housing provider is demanding rent and you can’t meet their expectations, it’s time to look for a helping hand.That’s where emergency rental assistance comes in.These programs are designed to help folks going through a financial crisis by providing temporary funding to pay their rent.Wyoming residents are in luck as there are numerous options available to help you retain your housing in tough times, so you can focus on the next steps.If you need to find a Wyoming emergency rental assistance program, read on. Below we’ll walk you through some of your options.No Longer Active: Wyoming's COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramTo begin with, it’s important to note that Wyoming created an Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) to help residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. However, while this program distributed more than 108 million dollars to families throughout the state, it was officially closed in the summer of 2023. This means that it is no longer active and they are not accepting applications for aid.All that aside, there are plenty of other programs that are currently active and ready to help you out.Active Wyoming Emergency Rental Assistance ProgramsHere are the various Wyoming emergency rental assistance programs you can apply to for help. Each one is unique and has its application requirements, so check out their websites for details.Volunteers of America (VOA) - Wyoming Rapid Response FundThe Northern Rockies division of the VOA created the Wyoming Rapid Response Fund to provide one-time emergency financial assistance to Wyoming residents. This program is open to individuals who need emergency rental assistance, as well as help in other emergency situations, such as healthcare, home repair, funeral expenses, and more.VOA partners with local organizations to serve all counties throughout Wyoming. To apply for assistance, you can fill out their simple online form here.Volunteers of America (VOA) - Wyoming Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)In addition to the Rapid Response Fund, the VOA Northern Rockies division operates an emergency rental assistance program specifically for veterans and their families. It’s called the Wyoming Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF).This program provides eligible veterans with short-term financial assistance to retain housing and helps them connect with community resources. As with the previous program, this veterans program operates throughout the state of Wyoming.To be eligible for this program, you need to be:a veteran with one day of federal active duty with a discharge, DD214 that was NOT for dishonorable discharge,homeless or have a threat of homelessness/eviction notice,And have 50% of income MFI (Area Median Family Income).To learn more, check if you prequalify here.Wyoming 211 - Emergency Rental Assistance ResourcesWyoming 211 is a statewide organization that connects residents with resources and people to meet nearly every need. One of the many ways they help is by running a call center where you can speak to a Community Resource Specialist to find aid. You can also text to get connected with a specialist.For Wyoming emergency rental assistance programs, in addition to speaking with a representative, 211 operates an easy-to-search website where you can find dozens of organizations ready to help you meet your rent payments. Check out their website to find the right program for you.First Stop Park County Help ProgramThe First Stop Park County Help Program can help residents in Park County, Powell, Cody, and Big Horn County with all kinds of emergency assistance. If you get in touch with them, they will connect you with the right program for your specific needs.When it comes to emergency rental assistance, they can help with that, and they can also help you find lower-income housing if that’s what you need. Their goal is to help you craft a plan to reach your long-term dreams.The Help Center in ThermopolisThe Help Center in Thermopolis, WY, in partnership with the Yellowstone Country Assistance Network, has created a program for emergency rental assistance. The funding for the program is provided by CSBG (Federal Community Services Block Grant). So, because of the federal partnership, The Help Center will have to verify your income as part of the application process.To apply for financial assistance for rent in Thermopolis, you can visit The Help Center or give them a call.GracesList Wyoming - Emergency Rental Assistance Charities and OrganizationsFinally, a very helpful resource for finding Wyoming emergency rental assistance programs is called GracesList Wyoming. This website is an emergency services directory that lists a bunch of organizations in Wyoming that are here to help you through various emergencies, including rent assistance.As of the writing of this article, the list of rent assistance organizations in Wyoming contains over a dozen unique programs. Check them out here and see which one is a fit for you.Learn More About Rental Assistance ProgramsWondering what emergency rental assistance is? Here is a handy guide that explains it and helps you understand your options.If you are struggling to pay rent, any number of these Wyoming emergency rental assistance programs above can help, but you’ve got other options too. From charities to federal programs, check out this resource to find out all the ways you can get help.

5 min readEmergency Rental Assistance