Housing Assistance for Elderly and Disabled People

Older adults and people with disabilities have access to several specialized federal housing programs that are separate from general public housing waiting lists. They aren't the "$5 million senior housing grant" scams that target this audience online — they're targeted programs with specific eligibility, run by HUD and USDA.

HUD Section 202 — supportive housing for the elderly

The Section 202 program funds affordable rental housing for very-low-income adults age 62 and older. Properties offer rent subsidies (tenants typically pay about 30% of adjusted income) plus supportive services like cleaning, transportation, and meal programs.

To find Section 202 properties near you, search HUD's Resource Locator or call your local Area Agency on Aging through Eldercare.acl.gov or 1-800-677-1116.

HUD Section 811 — supportive housing for people with disabilities

The Section 811 program provides affordable rental housing and supportive services for very-low-income adults with disabilities. Both project-based units (specific apartment buildings) and tenant-based vouchers exist, depending on your state.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher

Most PHAs give preference points to elderly and disabled applicants on their Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists, meaning you may move up faster. The voucher lets you rent any qualifying private apartment, with the program paying part of your rent directly to the landlord. Apply through your local PHA.

USDA Section 504 — home repair for rural seniors

If you own a home in a rural area, are 62 or older, and have very low income, the USDA Section 504 program offers grants up to $10,000 to remove health and safety hazards from your home. The grant does not have to be repaid. Loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest are also available for general repairs.

Public housing and project-based rental assistance

Many public housing developments include senior-only or disability-accessible buildings. Some private buildings receive Project-Based Section 8 contracts, which means rent assistance stays attached to the unit (not portable like a voucher). Search HUD's Resource Locator to find both.

Other helpful resources

• Eldercare Locator — 1-800-677-1116 — connects you to local Area Agencies on Aging, which know your local options
• Centers for Independent Living — peer support and advocacy for people with disabilities
• Disability.gov and USAging.org — national directories
• Dial 211 for local emergency housing assistance

Avoid the scams

Older adults and people with disabilities are heavily targeted by grant scams. If someone calls, texts, or emails offering "free senior housing grants" of thousands of dollars — especially with a fee — it's a scam. FTC guidance: consumer.ftc.gov/articles/government-grant-scams.