Agencies

• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a federally funded administration with branches located in every state that assist low-income and no-income individuals find subsidized housing through the Section 8 program. Although HUD does not provide rental assistance for nonsubsidized housing, it does provide information on other organizations that have special programs designed to help renters avoid eviction. Most states provide rental assistance for qualified residents. Search online by state to find an agency in your area.
  
  

Eligibility

• Specific eligibility requirements for receiving emergency rental assistance vary by state. However the basic requirements outlined for every state are that renters seeking assistance must be residents of the state, have a minor child or an elderly or disabled adult living in the home and be employed. Many agencies want to be assured that individuals are capable of paying their rent after the rental assistance grant has been made.
  
  

Documents

• Each agency requires documentation before funding is granted. Applicants must provide a state-issued identification card, Social Security cards for all occupants of the residence, proof of income (typically check stubs for the past two months), proof of late rental payments (such as an eviction notice) and proof of rental amount.
  
  

Grants

• Agency intake workers will process the application and begin the funding process. If the applicant is approved, the payment is made directly to the leasing company or landlord on behalf of the applicant. Cash grants are not given directly to the applicant. State rental assistance agencies also provide assistance with utility payments, employment, child care expenses, public transportation vouchers and educational programs to qualified recipients.