(ModernSurvival.org) – The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has several agencies available to help those in need. The Department of Housing, one of HUD’s leading agencies, oversees the Federal Housing Administration and regulates the real estate industry. If you need assistance with housing, HUD has a variety of options to help.
HUD Housing Support Options
Those with disabilities, those with low incomes, and the elderly are eligible for housing assistance from HUD. Using state distributions, HUD offers homeowners money to create housing programs and opportunities.
People searching for affordable housing can call 1-800-569-4287 to connect with a local counseling agency or can find an approved housing adviser online. These housing counselors, including non-profit organizations, excel at finding low-income housing for those in need.
The HUD works with three main housing options:
- Public Housing
- Private and subsidized housing
- The Housing Choice Voucher Program
Public Housing
Public housing provides those with low incomes, those with disabilities, and the elderly safe and affordable housing. Government agencies generally own and maintain the buildings. HUD provides funding to local housing authorities who operate the public housing program.
Eligibility for the public housing program depends on several factors, such as:
- Annual income
- Age, or disability status
- Citizenship, or immigration status
- Recent criminal activity
- Background check from the Housing Authority (HA)
The income levels are set by HUD and vary by location. Applicants can apply through their local public housing office.
Private and Subsidized Housing
Landlords are offered private housing subsidies from the government, which then agree to reduce rent for eligible tenants. Non-profit organizations and private homeowners have made many self-financing units available through this program.
To qualify for subsidized housing, one must make below a certain income level which varies from state to state. Before applying, applicants should check to ensure they do not exceed the local income requirements.
Rental units can be found online and booked directly through the rental management office or the property owner. To file a complaint about your rental property, the Multi-Family Housing Complaint Line is available at 1-800-685-8470.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
Also known as Section 8, the Housing Choice Voucher Program provides those in need with housing assistance. Residences available through this program belong to private owners who receive Section 8 vouchers from their tenants.
As with the public housing option listed above, those with low income levels, the elderly, and the disabled are eligible for the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Those who qualify receive safe and clean housing such as townhouses, apartments, or houses.
HUD locates public housing agencies that administer the program locally. The HA determines a family’s eligibility based on:
- Income levels
- Family size
- Citizenship
- Immigration status
Each family is allowed to choose their residence after receiving their voucher, though the PHA may advise them on the best options based on their particular needs. After the family selects a home, the PHA will inspect it to guarantee it meets the required safety and health standards. Tenants may have to pay some rent through this program. However, the voucher ensures the cost will never be more than 30% of the rental price.
Don’t Hesitate to Get Housing Support
If you’re 65 or older, disabled, or have a low income, there are housing support options available from the government. Help is a few clicks away at the HUD website or benefits.gov. Don’t hesitate to explore these programs and learn more about how to get affordable, safe, and clean housing.
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