The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has brought hardships to citizens with mortgage or rent payments, along with citizens that are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) manages federal programs designed to help Americans with their housing needs. HUD provides resources to increase homeownership, support community development and increase access to affordable housing free from discrimination.
Where can I find resources for homelessness assistance?
Many citizens are experiencing homelessness or at serious risk of homelessness. HUD provides resources outlining help available and infection control guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic. In shelters, citizens should use the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus by washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as often as possible and cover their coughs and sneezes. For assistance with homelessness, contact a designated person in your community by visiting HUD’s resource page with information for each state.
A HUD-approved housing counselor can also be a valuable resource to use during this time. Housing counselors provide advice on buying a house, renting, defaults, foreclosures, and credit matters. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides a comprehensive list of nationwide HUD-approved counseling agencies or you can call 1-800-569-4287.
How can I find affordable rental housing near me?
HUD helps apartment owners offer reduced rents to low-income tenants. Search for affordable housing by using the HUD resource locator tool. HUD’s Public Housing Program provides low-income families with safe rental housing. To check if you and your family may be eligible and apply for this benefit, visit the Public Housing Program benefit page. Another benefit that provides affordable housing to low-income families is the housing choice voucher program. Housing can include single-family homes, townhouses and apartments and is not limited to units located in subsidized housing projects. Housing choice vouchers are administered locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and are used to subsidize rent. To check for eligibility and apply, visit the Housing Choice Voucher Program benefit page.
For additional affordable rental housing information, visit the HUD rental assistance resource page.
I am at risk of foreclosure, what resources are available?
During this unprecedented time, many Americans are struggling to pay their next mortgage payment. If you are at risk of missing a payment, you should contact your lender immediately. This will allow you the opportunity to explain why you are unable to make the payment and provide details about your current income and expenses. Your lender will explain any plans set up to keep your home. For more information on programs that can best assist you, visit HUD’s Avoiding Foreclosure page.
To explore housing loan programs, please explore the Housing Loans category or take our Benefit Finder questionnaire to find additional government benefits that you may be eligible for and learn how to apply.
What resources are available during the coronavirus crisis to help low-income Americans with housing?
The HUD allocated additional funds specifically for coronavirus relief to help low-income Americans residing in public housing. The funding made available by the CARES Act legislation will be awarded to PHAs across the nation.
To learn more about available assistance during the coronavirus, check out our article: Finding the Right Help During the COVID-19 (coronavirus) Outbreak.
