(NationRise.com) – Are you having trouble when it comes to affording your housing costs? Rents as well as mortgage interest rates are on the rise in the United States, and many individuals and families are wondering where to turn in times of crisis.
Fortunately, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has multiple programs and agencies set up to assist those in need of housing assistance. One of HUD’s main agencies is called the Department of Housing, and it oversees the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The Department of Housing also regulates the real estate industry.
If you’re wondering how you can get back on your feet again with the help of housing assistance, read on.
HUD Provides Housing Support Options
Many people qualify for housing support from HUD. This includes those with low incomes, specific disabilities, and senior citizens. While the federal government funds HUD programs, individual states distribute the money to homeowners.
To start, you can get help from a HUD-approved housing advisor at 1-800-569-4287. When you call, ask to get connected to a counseling agency local to you. Housing counselors are often at nonprofit organizations, and they can help you find low-income housing.
There are three primary HUD-supported housing options:
- Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8 Housing)
- Public Housing
- Private and Subsidized Housing
Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Housing Choice Voucher Program provides subsidies to landlords who agree to accept those who qualify for this program. The government program pays them the majority of the rent, making it a pretty good deal for the landlord. Housing is owned by individual landlords who then get Section 8 vouchers via their renters.
Because of this program, many low-income individuals and families, as well as the elderly and people with disabilities, can access safe, sanitary homes listed in the public housing market. If you qualify, you can get apartments, condos, townhouses, and even single-family homes as a renter.
HUD eligibility is based on the individual or family that applies. The program will evaluate your gross annual income, citizenship status, immigration status, and family size.
The great thing about the Housing Choice Voucher Program is that you get to select your own housing with the help of the PHA, or Public Housing Authority. Once the PHA approves and the landlord agrees, you can use the voucher there.
Public Housing
Public housing offers housing to low-income and other qualifying families. HUD funds the public housing, providing funding to local housing authorities. Those authorities get the money to operate the program, but HUD and other government agencies usually own and maintain public housing.
When it comes to public housing eligibility, the authority will look at your income, disabled or senior citizen status, and immigration status. HUD sets local income limits for these housing opportunities, which are highly dependent on the specific location. You’ll also need to pass a background check and be free of implications of criminal activity or prior criminal behavior. To apply for public housing, reach out to your nearest public housing office.
Private and Subsidized Housing
There are also other subsidized housing programs out there via the government. They provide subsidies to landlords in exchange for a reduced rent cost. To qualify, you have to have a low income level, which can vary depending on your state. Before you apply, it’s best to check the local income limits to ensure you don’t exceed that set limit.
While having a low income and finding affordable housing can cause many difficulties, there are multiple programs that may be able to help, depending on whether you qualify, and your current income level. Reach out to your local public housing authority to get started and explore options.
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