Housing & Rent

Housing assistance programs help renters and homeowners with low incomes keep a safe, stable place to live. The best known is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, which pays part of your rent directly to a private landlord through your local public housing agency. Public housing offers apartments owned by housing agencies, with rent based on your income. Many states and cities also run rental assistance programs for people behind on rent or facing eviction, and some offer help for homeowners struggling with mortgage or repair costs. Income limits for housing programs depend on where you live, and waiting lists are common, so it helps to apply early and to more than one program. Our guides explain who qualifies for each housing and rent program, how to apply through the right agency, and what to expect while you wait.