Emergency Rental Assistance: Where to Get Help Paying Rent

Emergency rental assistance programs can help you pay rent if you're facing eviction or struggling with past-due bills. You can apply through your local housing authority, your state's TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) program, or your city or county social services office. Applying is free, and only the agency decides whether you qualify.

Who qualifies

Emergency rental assistance is designed for people with low income who cannot pay their rent. Different programs have different rules, so you may qualify for one or more of them.

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help low-income families afford housing long-term. To qualify, your household income usually must be at or below 50 percent of your area's median income. Section 8 has long waiting lists in many areas, so applying early is important even if you need help right now.

TANF gives cash help to low-income families with children. You can use this money to pay rent, utilities, food, and other needs. Each state sets its own income limits and benefit amounts. If you have children and are struggling financially, TANF is worth exploring because the cash can go toward any living expense, including rent.

Local emergency assistance programs are usually for people facing immediate eviction or homelessness. These programs are designed to pay a few months of back rent or current bills. Many cities and counties offer these programs through their social services offices.

Types of rental assistance programs

Three main types of programs can help:

• Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): A federal program run by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The voucher covers part of your rent based on your income, and you pay the rest.
• TANF: Cash assistance from your state that can be used for rent and other living expenses. Each state runs its own program with different rules and benefit amounts.
• Emergency assistance programs: Local programs through your city or county for people in crisis. These are usually short-term.

How to apply

For Section 8: Contact your local public housing authority. You can find it through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website.

For TANF: Apply through your state's social services office or online. Rules and application methods vary by state. Visit your state's website or call your county social services office to find out how to apply.

For local emergency assistance: Call or visit your city or county social services office. Ask specifically about emergency rental assistance or eviction prevention programs.

If you're facing immediate eviction, apply right away and ask about emergency or expedited processing. Don't wait to see if you can solve it on your own.

What to bring when you apply

Most programs ask for:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, letters from employers)
• Proof of residency (lease, utility bills, mail with your name and address)
• ID
• Proof of the unpaid rent (eviction notice, landlord letter, lease)
• Bank statements or proof of other resources

Requirements vary by program, so ask what you'll need before you apply.

What happens next

After you apply, the program will review your information and let you know if you qualify. The agency that runs the program decides who qualifies. If you meet the income and other requirements, the program may pay your landlord directly or give you assistance to cover your rent. The process can take several weeks, so apply as soon as possible if you're in danger of eviction.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long to apply: If you're behind on rent or facing eviction, apply right away. Don't wait to see if your situation improves.
• Applying to only one program: You may qualify for more than one type of assistance. Check all three options.
• Not gathering documents ahead of time: Have proof of income, residency, and unpaid rent ready before you apply. This speeds up the process.
• Assuming you don't qualify: Income limits and rules vary by program and state. Only the agency can decide whether you qualify. Apply even if you think you might earn too much.

Related help

If rent is only part of your problem, you may also qualify for other benefits. Check whether you qualify for food assistance, cash benefits, or other programs. If you've had a job loss or other crisis, explore all programs available to you.

Summary

Emergency rental assistance can help you stay housed when money runs short. Apply through your local housing authority, your state TANF program, or your city or county social services office. Applying is free, and you may qualify for more than one type of help.