Where to Start — Waythrough Project

Let's Find Your Resources

Navigating the affordable housing system can feel overwhelming — there are dozens of programs, each with their own rules, eligibility requirements, and application processes. You shouldn't have to figure it all out on your own.

We'll ask a few quick questions about your situation — usually just 3 or 4 — and then point you toward the specific guides, programs, and next steps that are most relevant to you. Whether you're looking for help for the first time, dealing with a denial, or trying to understand your rights, we'll help you find a starting point.

You can skip any optional question, and you can always start over if your situation changes.

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Step 1

Not Sure Where to Start?The affordable housing system is confusing, but we're here to help. Here are some ways to get started:What's your most immediate need?

I need a place to stay tonight or very soon

This is urgent, and help is available.

Call 211 from any phone (toll-free). They'll connect you with local emergency shelters, temporary housing, and immediate aid.
If you're a veteran, ask about HUD-VASH (housing and case management support).
If you're experiencing domestic violence, visit our support page for DV survivors for confidential help.

I'm struggling to pay rent

You don't have to choose between rent and other necessities.

I'm struggling to pay my mortgage

Foreclosure isn't inevitable — there are programs and options specifically designed to help.

How to prevent foreclosure — loan modification, forbearance, and what to do at every stage.
Call a HUD-approved housing counselor (800-569-4287) — free, confidential help negotiating with your lender.
Budgeting when money is tight — managing expenses during a financial crunch.

I'm facing eviction or got a notice from my landlord

Don't panic — you have rights and options, even if you've already received a notice.

How to avoid eviction — what to do at every stage of the process.
Understanding landlord notices — comply or vacate, pay or vacate, and how to respond.
Know your tenant rights — what your landlord can and can't do.
Emergency rental assistance — programs that help cover back rent.

I just lost my job

Losing your job is stressful, but there are programs designed to help you through this.

What to do when you lose your job — immediate steps for income, benefits, and housing.
Apply for SNAP (food stamps) — food assistance you may qualify for right away.
Apply for Medicaid — health coverage after losing employer insurance.
Employment & job training resources — help getting back on your feet.

I want to find an affordable apartment

Great starting point. Let's explore your options.

Browse LIHTC apartments in your area.
Read our FAQ to get familiar with terms and common questions.
Check out our document checklist and Section 8 application guide.

I have a voucher but I'm having trouble using it

Voucher problems are common and usually fixable.

Source-of-income protections — many areas make it illegal to reject vouchers.
Portability guide — if you want to move to another state or area.
Recertification questions? We walk you through the annual process.

I'm being treated unfairly or discriminated against

You have legal protections. Here's how to use them.

File a housing discrimination complaint — the process is free and confidential.
Source-of-income protections — if a landlord rejected your voucher.
Reasonable accommodations — if a disability accommodation was denied.
Appeal a denial — steps to contest an unfair housing decision.

General Starting Points

Call 211 — available 24/7. They know your local resources and can match you with programs.

Find your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) — they manage Section 8 and can point you to other programs.

Browse the FAQ — common questions with simple answers.

Check the glossary — definitions of terms you might encounter.

Quick Reference

Major Programs We Cover

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers — rental assistance capping rent at 30% of your income
LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) — below-market-rate apartments
HUD-VASH — housing and services for veterans
SSI and SSDI — disability income support
Recovery housing — peer-supported sober living
Emergency rental assistance — help with back rent and utilities

Key Guides

Get Help

Still not sure where to start? Try these universal resources:

Call 211 — Available 24/7 in most areas. Confidential, free resource and referral service.
Read our FAQ — Common questions answered in plain language.
Check the glossary — Definitions of housing terms and acronyms.
Benefits finder — See what assistance programs you might qualify for.