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Housing help finder

Answer three questions to see where to start, which programs to look at, and the agencies that serve your area. This points you to the right guides; only the agency running a program can decide eligibility.

Starting points by situation

The same recommendations, listed in full. Start with the first guide in each group.

UrgentA safe place to stay tonight or this week

  • Call 211, or 911 if you are in danger. Ask for shelter and a coordinated entry assessment.

UrgentI received an eviction notice or court papers

  • Find the deadline on the notice or summons. Missing a court date can mean losing automatically.
  • Contact legal aid today, and apply for rent help at the same time.

I’m behind on rent or will be soon

  • Call 211 and apply to several programs at once.
  • Propose a written payment plan to your landlord before the due date.

My rent is too high, and I need long-term help

  • Apply to every housing agency and income-restricted property that serves your area. Each keeps a separate list.

Utility bills or a shutoff notice

  • Call the utility for a payment plan and ask about medical or seasonal protections.
  • Apply for LIHEAP and tell the office the shutoff date.

Repairs or unsafe conditions in my home

  • Put the repair request in writing and keep photos.
  • Renters: check your state’s repair remedies. Owners: compare repair grants and loans.

Money to move in: deposit, first month, moving costs

  • Ask your local assistance programs whether they cover deposits; many treat them separately from back rent.

Mortgage payments or foreclosure

  • Call your servicer and a free HUD-approved housing counselor (800-569-4287). Never pay upfront fees for “foreclosure rescue.”

Buying a first home

  • Start with HUD-approved counseling and your state housing finance agency’s homebuyer programs.

Help for specific households