Given the current state of the housing market, finding economical housing, especially for low-income households, is challenging. To avoid a housing crisis, the government has implemented policies to make homes more “affordable.” According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), affordable housing refers to places where tenants do not spend more than 30% of their gross income on housing costs. These policies help families access safe, stable, and affordable living conditions.
Government plans for low-income affordable housing
1. Section 8 housing
Under this program, eligible individuals can get housing vouchers to pay for a portion of or the entire rent in private accommodations. The program falls under the purview of the local public housing agency (PHA).
Eligibility for this program is limited to low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. To apply, one must contact their local PHA office and fill out the necessary forms. This program has a long waiting list, so one must keep checking their application status as and when the waiting list is reopened. For more help and guidance, one must reach out to their local HUD office.
2. Subsidized housing
As a part of the subsidized housing program, the government pays a portion of the rent to apartment owners to reduce the burden on low-income tenants. Eligibility for this program differs by city and county, so it’s best to contact the local public housing agency for the right guidance.
To apply for this program:
- Begin by doing a simple browser search using the term “find affordable housing opportunities near me,” along with one’s address.
- Look for available options that meet one’s requirements.
- After shortlisting a low-rent unit, contact the property manager to learn how to apply. While some of these low-income apartments may be able to offer immediate move-ins, others may have a long waiting period.
3. Public housing
Public housing is another federal initiative that provides affordable housing options to low-income families and individuals with disabilities at reduced rates. It covers all family and apartment types, from single-family houses to high-rise apartments, and is managed by local PHAs. Eligibility for this program is based on one’s annual gross income, demographic information, and citizenship or immigration status.
The application process for the public housing program differs by state, so it is best to visit a local PHA to understand it better.
Rental assistance for specific groups
1. Rental assistance for veterans
This service is part of the Supported Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. It assists veterans in keeping their current homes, relocating to a more suitable housing option, or re-housing the veteran and their family immediately if they are homeless.
To be eligible for this program, one must be a veteran or live in a family headed by a veteran, have a very low income, and be at immediate risk of homelessness. To make an appointment, one can contact the local SSVF office directly.
2. Rental assistance for individuals under age 62 with disabilities
Those under the age of 62 who live with a disability can apply for a non-elderly disabled (NED) voucher to pay for private rental housing. Eligibility for this voucher depends on one’s status in the family, age, disability status, and other local income-based requirements. The local PHA office may be able to help eligible individuals with the application process.
Tips to find affordable housing
The process of finding affordable accommodation may not always be straightforward. While subsidized housing plans offer great promise to low-income families, their availability remains scarce.
1. Speak to a HUD-approved housing counseling agency
HUD-approved housing agencies have been trained and certified by the government to offer advice on one’s possible housing options. Individuals can speak to a trained professional here to get access to valuable information and resources on affordable housing based on their current financial situation.
2. Define a budget in advance
Working with a budget based on one’s income, savings, and expenditures helps shortlist properties that one can afford without causing unwanted financial strain.
3. Look for roommates
Individuals or small families can also look for roommates to share the rent, cost of utilities, and other household expenses. Look for a roommate with similar lifestyle preferences, cleanliness, and social habits to find a good match.
4. Check online listings
Listings on websites and online housing groups can also help individuals find affordable housing options. Keep an eye out for any new postings, as many of them may facilitate early or even immediate move-ins for tenants.
5. Consider different areas
Certain cities and neighborhoods are notorious for having high rental rates. If these areas fall out of one’s budget, one can consider shopping around the outer boroughs or moving to other locations to find more affordable housing options that meet one’s needs.
