How to Get Housing Assistance

Having housing assistance could mean the difference between being able to pay your rent or being put out on the streets. The program was created to help individuals with affordable housing. Housing assistance is available to individuals who have low to moderate incomes and are elderly or disabled. Individuals must follow certain steps to apply for housing assistance.

1. Locate your local HUD office in your area. Check the government section of your phone book for their number. Many cities have a local housing authority office. You may also be able to receive information at this office about other locations in your area.

2. Set up an appointment. Make sure you ask what documents you will need to bring. Prepare a folder with all of your documents.

3. Go in and fill out your application on your appointment date. You will be required to answer a variety of question such as who will be living in your household. Make sure you have documentation for these individuals as well.

4. Your income will be calculated to determine if you are eligible to receive housing assistance. If you are eligible you will receive a letter in the mail asking you to come back in and sign paperwork. At this time you will be given a voucher to look for suitable housing.

5. Find out the properties in your area that are under the Section 8 or HUD program. The person you are working with from the HUD office should be able to provide you with a listing of places in your area.

6. Contact the landlords or manager of the property you choose to schedule a walk-through of the location. Fill out the necessary application for rental of the property and take the information back to your HUD office to finalize the process.