Help for First-Time Renters: Vouchers and Assistance Programs

When I rented my first place, I did not know there was help out there. Rent, deposits and fees add up fast. If money is tight, you are not alone, and you do not have to figure it out by yourself. Here are real places to start.

Start With National Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

This HUD program helps people with lower incomes pay rent in the private market. You apply through your local public housing agency, also called a PHA. Waiting lists can be long, so apply early.

• Learn how it works on the HUD Housing Choice Voucher page.

• Find your local agency on the HUD PHA contact list.

Call or Visit 211

211 is a free, confidential line. It connects you with local help for rent, utilities, food and more. Dial 211 or visit 211.org.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Some states, counties and cities offer emergency help with rent or utilities. Programs open and close, so check what is open near you. The CFPB has a helpful rental assistance finder.

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors

A housing counselor can help you with budgets, renting, credit and your options. Many are free or low cost. Find one near you with HUD's housing counselor search.

Help by Region

Every state has a housing finance agency, or HFA. Many have renter resources or links to local help. To find your state, use the NCSHA state housing help directory. Here are a few examples by region.

Northeast

• MassHousing (Massachusetts)

• New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency

• New York State Homes and Community Renewal: Section 8 (New York vouchers and local offices)

• 211 New York State (rent and emergency help)

Southeast

• Florida Housing Finance Corporation

• Tennessee Housing Development Agency

• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Housing Choice Voucher

• Apply for Housing Choice Voucher Program (Georgia.gov)

• 2-1-1 Georgia, from United Ways of Georgia (rent and emergency help)

Midwest

• Illinois Housing Development Authority

• Michigan State Housing Development Authority

• Minnesota Housing

Southwest

• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

• Housing New Mexico (MFA)

• City of Phoenix Housing Department (Arizona, including Section 8 vouchers)

• 2-1-1 Arizona (rent and emergency help)

West

• California Housing Finance Agency

• Washington State Housing Finance Commission

• Colorado Housing and Finance Authority

Tips Before You Apply

• Gather your ID, income proof and lease, if you have one.

• Ask what the program covers and what it does not.

• Keep copies of every form you send.

• Write down names and dates when you call.

• Follow up if you do not hear back.

• Watch for scams. Real programs do not ask you to pay to apply.

My Last Word

Asking for help is a smart, grown-up move. These programs exist for moments like this. Start with 211 or a housing counselor. Then check your state agency. One phone call can open a door.