Need Affordable Rent? See How The Government Can Help

Ask most people what they worry about each month, and many will say being able to pay their rent on time. This is because we all need a roof over our heads, and rent can be so expensive, it can take a huge chunk out of your budget.

While you could get a second job or work extra hours to ensure your rent is always paid promptly, there’s a better way to make that monthly payment more affordable while living in a safe, clean space. What is it? Getting help from the government via different programs that it offers. Let’s take a look at some of the more common ones:

Privately-Owned Subsidized Housing

You don’t necessarily have to live on government property to participate in a program for affordable rent. Take the privately-owned subsidized housing route, and you can get a low-rent apartment from an owner that isn’t Uncle Sam.

If you choose this avenue for affordable rent, you’ll apply for government assistance through the property’s own rental office. You can find such properties by using the HUD Resource Locator found here. It makes it easy to see what’s available near you so you can start your search.

Keep in mind that if you want to use privately-owned subsidized housing, there will be some requirements. You will have to make less than the income limit for your family size and location for starters. Beyond that, you will also have to meet certain requirements from the property’s owner.

As for what a private property owner gets out of this deal, the government will give them money to participate in the program, which reduces the amount of rent you’ll end up paying out of pocket.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

You’ve probably heard of Section 8 before, as its Housing Choice Vouchers make rent very affordable. They do so by limiting the amount of rent you must pay monthly, with a large portion of that payment coming from the government and going directly to the landlord. You’ll be expected to pay the remainder.

If you choose Section 8, you’ll look for your own housing that participates in the program. This can be a townhouse, apartment, or even a single-family home that meets specific Section 8 standards. As for how much your voucher will be worth, that will depend on local housing costs, your income, and the size of your family.

Your Section 8 eligibility will depend on whether you’re a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, making less than the program’s income limits, and your family composition. You can apply for Section 8 by going here and contacting your local Public Housing Agency (PHA).

Public Housing

In this arrangement, you’ll rent a townhouse, apartment, or single-family home from your PHA. The eligibility requirements are similar to Section 8, and the type of housing you can get and how much you’ll pay will depend on your income.

Before you can be accepted into public housing, know that the PHA may contact your past landlords and require an in-person visit with you to see if you’re a good fit as a tenant.

To apply for public housing, go here and contact your PHA.