Housing Assistance for Seniors: 5 Ways to Get Help With Rent, Utilities and Housing Costs

Older adults facing high housing costs may have several programs and resources available to help

Housing is one of the biggest expenses for Americans age 55 and older. Many seniors struggle to keep up with rent, mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities and home repairs.

If housing costs are taking up too much of your income, you may qualify for housing assistance for seniors or other programs that can reduce your monthly expenses.

Here are five options to consider.
 

1. Get help with rent and utilities

If you are having trouble paying rent or utility bills, start by checking programs in your state, county or city.

You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging to ask about rental assistance, utility assistance and other programs for older adults.

The HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-4673 also provides free housing counseling and can connect renters with local resources. It does not directly provide rental assistance.
 

2. Check if you qualify for Section 8

Section 8 housing, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, helps eligible low-income households pay rent.

If you qualify, the voucher covers part of your rent, while you pay the remaining amount based on your income.

Because demand can be high, Section 8 waiting lists are common. Contact your local public housing agency to check availability and application requirements.
 

3. Look into Section 202 and public housing

Older adults may also qualify for Section 202 housing, a federal program designed to provide affordable housing for people age 62 and older with low incomes.

Another option is public housing, which provides reduced-rent homes and apartments to eligible low-income households, including seniors and people with disabilities.

Your rent and eligibility will generally depend on factors such as your income and household size.
 

4. Consider your home equity

Homeowners may have another option if they need help paying housing expenses: home equity.

Home equity is the value of your home minus what you still owe on your mortgage.

Depending on your situation, you may be able to access that equity through:

• Home equity loan: Receive a lump sum and repay it through monthly payments.

• HELOC: Borrow money as needed up to an approved limit.

• Reverse mortgage: Homeowners age 62 and older may be able to convert part of their home equity into cash.

These options involve borrowing against your home, so it is important to understand the fees, interest and repayment requirements before applying.

A reverse mortgage also has specific requirements and can affect the amount of equity left for your heirs.

Read: Behind on Rent? 7 Things You Should Do Right Now

5. Try home sharing

If you own a home with an unused bedroom or separate living space, home sharing could help reduce your housing costs.

You may be able to rent a room to another person in exchange for monthly rent. Some arrangements may also include help with household tasks.

For seniors, home sharing can provide additional income while offering companionship and helping them remain in their homes longer.
 

What if I need housing assistance right away?

If you are struggling to pay rent, mortgage payments or utility bills, do not wait until you receive an eviction or shutoff notice.

Consider these steps:

• Contact your local housing authority.

• Call the HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-4673.

• Contact your Area Agency on Aging.

• Search for state and local rental assistance programs.

• Ask about utility assistance programs.

• Check whether you qualify for Section 8 or public housing.
   

Can seniors get government housing?

Yes. Eligible older adults can apply for programs such as Section 8, Section 202 and public housing.

However, affordable housing can be limited, and waiting lists may be long or temporarily closed.

Applying to several programs or properties may increase your chances of finding an available home.
 

Bottom line

High housing costs can put serious pressure on a senior's budget, but help may be available.

Depending on your situation, rental assistance, Section 8, Section 202 housing, public housing, home equity or home sharing could help reduce your housing expenses.

The best place to start is by checking your local housing authority and Area Agency on Aging to find programs available where you live.

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