What's your most immediate need?
Pick whichever feels closest to your situation right now. You can always explore other sections of the site later.
"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 SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families)—rapid rehousing specifically for veterans.
- If you're experiencing domestic violence, you have specialized emergency resources. Visit our support page for DV survivors for confidential help and safe housing options.
"I'm housed but struggling to afford it"
You don't have to choose between rent and other necessities.
- Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers) — caps your rent at 30% of income. Waiting lists vary, but it's worth joining.
- LIHTC apartments — affordable rental buildings that don't require a voucher. Often no waiting list.
- LIHEAP (utility bill assistance) and other benefits programs can help with heating, cooling, and utilities.
- Check what benefits you qualify for — SSI, SNAP, and other programs can free up money for rent.
"I want to understand what programs I might qualify for"
Great starting point. Let's explore your options.
- Read our topic cards on the homepage for an overview of major programs.
- Browse the FAQ to get familiar with terms and common questions.
- Check out "5 Programs Beyond Section 8" — you might find something tailored to your situation.
"I have a voucher but I'm having trouble using it"
Voucher problems are common and usually fixable.
- Landlord rejecting your voucher? Learn why and what you can do.
- Portability guide — if you want to move to another state or housing authority area.
- Recertification questions? We walk you through the annual review process.
- Facing discrimination because you have a voucher? File a complaint and get support.
"I need help with something that's not housing directly"
Stable housing starts with addressing the whole picture.
- Mental health support — finding care and navigating the system.
- Substance use and recovery — recovery housing and treatment options.
- Employment resources — job training, placement, and work incentives.
- Benefits and income support — SSI, SSDI, SNAP, and more.
A few questions that can help narrow things down
You don't have to answer all of these. Just skip to the ones that apply to your situation.
Are you a veteran?
If yes, you have dedicated programs and funding designed just for you.
- Veteran-specific resources page
- HUD-VASH program guide — housing and case management support
- VA benefits that can help with housing costs
Do you have a disability?
Many programs prioritize people with disabilities, and you have legal protections around housing access. This is never a barrier.
- Resources for people with disabilities
- Reasonable accommodation guide — your right to modify housing rules for disability needs
- SSI/SSDI guide — income support that can help pay for housing
- Section 811 (reserved public housing for people with disabilities) — ask your local Public Housing Authority
Are you 62 or older?
Seniors have access to specialized programs and priority in many housing initiatives.
- Senior-specific resources page
- Section 202 (HUD housing for seniors) — safe, affordable communities designed for older adults
- Senior-specific affordable housing programs in your area
Are you dealing with substance use or mental health challenges?
These are not barriers to getting housing help. Many programs specifically support people working on recovery and mental health. Getting stable housing is often the foundation for everything else to improve.
- Mental health resources — finding therapy, medication support, and crisis lines
- Substance use support — treatment, recovery housing, and wraparound services
- Recovery housing guide — peer-supported sober living communities
- Disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) if you're unable to work due to mental health or substance use
Do you have income from a job?
If yes, there are programs designed to help you move up and build wealth while keeping housing support.
- Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program — save your rent increases in escrow while you improve your earnings
- Earned Income Disregard rules — keep more of your benefits as income rises
If no, that's okay. Many programs don't require employment.
- Employment resources — job training, placement services, and work incentives
- SSI/SSDI guide — income support if you can't work due to disability
- Other benefits — SNAP, TANF, unemployment, and more
Still not sure? Start with these
If you're feeling overwhelmed and none of the above quite fit, try one of these universal starting points:
- Call 211 — available in most areas, 24/7. They know your local resources and can match you with programs. No judgment, completely confidential.
- Find your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) — they manage Section 8, public housing, and can point you to other programs.
- Browse the FAQ — common questions, simple answers. No right or wrong place to start.
- Check the glossary — if you hit a term that doesn't make sense, look it up here.
One more thing
There's no wrong way to use this site. You can browse by topic, jump straight to a guide, read our blog posts, or dive into the FAQ. Everything here is free and there's no signup required.
Take your time. Many people take weeks or months to figure out which programs are right for them, and that's completely normal. The housing system is complex, but resources exist to help you navigate it.
If you want personalized guidance, consider talking to a housing counselor—many nonprofits offer this for free. Call 211 to find one near you.