Housing costs typically make up a significant portion of any household budget. Fortunately, there are several programs available that provide housing assistance. Each of these programs has its own set of requirements that applicants must meet to receive benefits. 

Perhaps the most well known rental assistance program is the Section 8 housing assistance program. This housing program is available to qualifying low-income families, seniors, and disabled persons. Section 8, which is also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, operates at the local level through Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) across the country. 

PHAs provide rental assistance to participating households by paying a portion of their rent directly to their landlord to reduce their monthly rental costs. The amount that is provided is based on a family’s income  and composition.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is another federal benefits program. It provides utility assistance to low-income households that is paid directly to the utility company. Additionally, emergency assistance may be available in some states. 

LIHEAP benefits can be used toward heating costs, cooling costs, or both, depending on where you live. For example, you can only receive heating benefits in Colorado and you can only receive cooling benefits in Puerto Rico. 

The Lifeline program provides discounted telephone and internet services to qualifying low-income households. Similar to Section 8, the program pays a portion of your bill each month, so long as you continue to qualify for assistance. In addition to income-related qualifications, you must have services through a participating provider. 

Are you interested in first time home buyer grants? There are many first time home buyer programs you could qualify for. These programs are offered on state and local levels, so it’s worth taking the time to research your options in your community. 

Depending on the program, you may be able to get house loans with low down payment requirements, or you may be able to get a portion of your down payment, closing costs, or interest charges paid on your behalf. To apply for first time home buyers grants, you typically need to meet the program requirements and follow the application methods offered in your local area. You may also be able to find local programs that provide foreclosure help.  

You might qualify for additional mortgage loans with low down payment requirements through federal programs, such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program. Additionally, programs that provide low payment mortgage options often reduce the requirements needed to meet to qualify for the loan. If you are a veteran, you may also qualify for a first time home buyer grant with a VA loan. 

Low-income homeowners whose houses are in need of repairs could receive help through home repair loans and grants through the Section 504 Home Repair program. To qualify for home loan assistance in the form of a grant, you must generally not meet the qualifications for a home loan and must usually own the home.