With housing costs rising across the country, many Americans are struggling to find affordable rental housing that fits their budget.
Thankfully, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides programs and resources to help make rental housing more accessible.
Let's explore HUD's role in rental assistance and how to take advantage of HUD resources to find affordable rentals near you.
HUD administers a variety of rental assistance programs that provide subsidies to reduce the cost of rent for low-income families. The major HUD rental assistance programs include:
- Housing Choice Voucher program
- Public Housing
- Project-Based Rental Assistance
If you are eligible for HUD rental assistance, the first step is to apply through your local Public Housing Authority. You can find contact information for local housing authorities on the HUD website.
The application process involves submitting documents to verify income, assets, household members, and other eligibility requirements.
Even if you don't qualify for subsidies, HUD still offers useful tools for finding affordable rentals in your area:
- The HUD Rental Assistance Finder allows you to search for rental properties that accept Housing Choice Vouchers near your location.
- The Affordable Apartment Search Tool helps you find low-cost rentals based on your income, number of bedrooms needed, and area.
- Local Public Housing Authorities may maintain lists of affordable housing properties or resources for voucher holders.
With rents rising faster than incomes, HUD rental assistance and resources provide critical support for millions of households struggling to afford a place to call home.
Taking advantage of HUD programs and tools can help you find available affordable rentals in your area to fit your budget.
