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Life change guide

I can't pay my rent

Find government benefits you may qualify for if you can't pay rent. Get help with food, utilities, cash assistance and housing vouchers.

5 steps, in order4 programs that can helpFree to apply

Where to start

Falling behind on rent is scary. You may worry about losing your home, and it can be hard to know where to start. Acting quickly gives you the most options.

First, talk to your landlord as soon as you can. Be honest and ask if you can set up a payment plan. Then look for ways to free up money in your budget. Help with food, energy bills or cash can leave more of your income for rent.

If you get legal papers about an eviction, do not ignore them. Read them carefully and look for free legal help in your area right away.

Longer-term rent help, like a housing voucher, can take time to get. That is why it helps to apply now, even while you work on short-term fixes.

Do these first

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Talk to your landlord

    Explain your situation and ask about a payment plan. Get any agreement in writing.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Apply for SNAP food help

    Help with food can free up money for rent. SNAP also counts high housing costs when your state figures your benefit.

    About SNAP
  3. 3

    Step 3

    Get help with energy bills

    LIHEAP may help pay heating and cooling bills, which can leave more money for rent. Apply as soon as your state's season opens.

    About LIHEAP
  4. 4

    Step 4

    Ask about cash help for families

    If you have children, TANF may give cash help and support services. Your state may use a different name for the program.

    About TANF
  5. 5

    Step 5

    Apply for a housing voucher

    Contact your local public housing agency about Housing Choice Vouchers, also called Section 8. Ask how to apply and whether the waiting list is open.

    About Section 8

Programs that can help

SNAPState-run · USDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.LIHEAPState-run · HHS Administration for Children and FamiliesLIHEAP helps households with low income pay heating and cooling bills, and may help in an energy crisis such as a shut-off notice.Section 8Local · US Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentHousing Choice Vouchers, often called Section 8, help families with low income pay rent for a home they find in the private market.TANFState-run · HHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.