How does emergency housing assistance work?

Emergency housing assistance helps people who may be at risk of losing their homes or who are already facing homelessness. It offers short-term support, like temporary housing or rental assistance, so individuals have somewhere safe to stay while they look for longer-term options.

Here’s how emergency housing assistance works and where you can go to get help.

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Common types of emergency housing assistance#common-types-of-emergency-housing-assistance

There are many types of emergency housing assistance programs, and the right one for you will depend on your situation and what's available in your area. Some offer same-day help, while others provide short-term support to give you a little breathing room during a stressful time.

Here’s a quick look at the types of help you can turn to if you’re facing a housing crisis.

Rental assistance#rental-assistance

Rental assistance helps you stay housed by covering part or all of your rent for a short period. Many states offer their own rental assistance programs, like Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance or the Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program. Depending on the program, the support can cover several types of costs.

This can include:

• Help with back rent if you’re behind
• One-time rental payments to prevent eviction
• Security deposit or first month's rent for a new place
• Utility assistance if unpaid bills put your housing at risk

Eligibility: Requirements will vary by state and by program. In general, you may be asked to show proof of income or housing instability, such as an eviction notice or record of an unexpected financial hardship.

Emergency housing vouchers#emergency-housing-vouchers

Housing vouchers are a type of financial assistance that can help pay a portion of your rent or make housing more affordable when you’re in a tight spot.

They’re similar to Section 8, but Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) are designed for urgent situations, like homelessness or unsafe living conditions.

How it works:

• A housing agency gives you a voucher that pays part of your rent directly to your landlord, and you pay the rest.
• In many cases, approval is often faster than traditional waitlist vouchers.
• Depending on the program, vouchers can sometimes be used for private rentals or transitional housing—check with your local housing authority.

Eligibility: To qualify for EHVs, you’ll usually need to be experiencing homelessness, at risk of losing your housing, or escaping an unsafe situation. You may also qualify if you were recently homeless and need extra help maintaining stable housing.

Temporary shelters#temporary-shelters

Temporary shelters offer a safe place to sleep and stay if you have nowhere to go.

These can include:

• Emergency shelters: Short-term housing that often allows same-day access for people in immediate need.
• Domestic violence shelters: Confidential housing for people and families experiencing domestic abuse.
• Disaster relief shelters: Temporary housing for people displaced by natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes, and floods.
• Youth shelters: Places specifically for minors or young adults who have run away from home or who are experiencing homelessness.
• Veteran shelters: Temporary or transitional housing for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Shelters typically provide a bed, meals, and basic necessities. But many offer additional services, such as case management, counseling, and job training.

Eligibility: Most shelters have an open-door policy, which means they are available to anyone in need. However, space can be limited. If possible, it’s a good idea to call ahead or check online to confirm availability and avoid being turned away.

How to find help with emergency housing#how-to-find-help-with-emergency-housing

If you need emergency housing assistance, there are several ways to get started. Try the following resources:

• Call 211: This nationwide hotline can connect you with local shelters, rental assistance programs, and other housing resources.
• Contact your housing authority: Your local Public Housing Agency can guide you through eligibility requirements and help you apply for emergency assistance.
• Reach out to community organizations and nonprofits: Some charities and advocacy groups offer shelter and support services to help you navigate your options.
• Check state and federal websites: Many states maintain an online list of emergency housing programs in your area, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.