In the United States, many people live paycheck to paycheck, just one unexpected expense away from financial instability.
More than half of Americans can’t cover basic monthly costs like rent, childcare, and health care with their income, according to the Ludwig Institute for Shared Economic Prosperity (LISEP).
However, there are options to find rent assistance when emergencies happen. Here’s how you can get help.
Ways to Get Help Paying Rent
If you are struggling to pay rent, here are actionable methods and resources to get emergency assistance.
1. Check Your Lease
Review your lease agreement to understand your rights as a tenant. Find out what happens if you’re late on rent or miss payments.
Even if you’re behind, eviction proceedings may take time—sometimes up to 90 days after a notice is given. Knowing your lease terms can buy you time to figure out a plan.
2. Talk to Your Landlord
If you have a good relationship with your landlord or property manager, communicate your situation before missing a payment.
Many landlords will work with tenants who are normally reliable. Ask if you can make late payments or split up overdue amounts into smaller installments.
3. Reach Out to Nonprofit Organizations
Nonprofits can help when government programs aren’t enough. Organizations like Catholic Charities or The Salvation Army may offer assistance with rent and utility bills if you qualify. Some nonprofits require you to meet with a caseworker to apply for help.
You can also call 2-1-1, a free 24/7 helpline run by United Way, which connects you to resources like housing assistance in your area.
4. Boost Your Income in the Short Term
If possible, explore immediate ways to increase your household income. You could ask friends and family for a small loan, request an advance from your employer, or look for part-time work.
Keep in mind that some employers offer hardship funds for emergency situations.
5. Start a Fundraiser on GoFundMe
Crowdfunding can be a powerful tool to raise rent money quickly. With GoFundMe, you can share your story with friends, family, and even strangers who may be touched by your situation.
GoFundMe provides tools to make fundraising simple and effective for people in financial trouble.
6. Veteran-Specific Rent Help
If you’re a veteran, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and nonprofit groups like Veterans Inc. may provide support to help with housing stability.
Veterans and other eligible groups may also qualify for disability-related housing subsidies provided by the federal government.
7. Government Aid Programs
Federal housing programs, such as rental vouchers through HUD (Housing and Urban Development), offer limited assistance, but waitlists can be long—often years.
Some state agencies may provide emergency eviction-prevention funds, but these are typically only available in crisis situations.
How to Prevent a Financial Crisis Down the Line
For many people seeking rent assistance, temporary relief may be just the beginning. A rent struggle often reveals the need for bigger adjustments to long-term financial planning.
If you’re in a similar spot, nonprofits like Volunteers of America suggest starting with an action plan. Here’s their advice:
- Take short-term steps to end your immediate crisis while also planning for long-term solutions.
- Address financial concerns early. Avoid waiting until the last minute to ask for help.
- Reach out for community support and resources—you don’t have to handle the problem alone.
- Consider budgeting classes to learn how to better manage your expenses or find ways to live in a more affordable area.
Asking for Help Isn’t Shameful
Life often throws challenges at us unexpectedly. If you need rent assistance from a nonprofit, government agency, friends, family, or even crowdfunding, don’t feel embarrassed.
If you’re experiencing financial difficulty and need help with rent, stay calm. Reach out to your landlord, a nonprofit organization, or start a GoFundMe fundraiser. Help is available, and you are not alone.
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