Help With Rent Payments

If you're struggling to pay rent, you need real options that work on a timeline that matters — not "register today to claim your $5,000,000 government rent grant." That's a scam, and people who fall for it often lose money to scammers right when they can least afford it.

Here's what actually exists for U.S. renters in 2026.

If you need help this month (emergency assistance)

For immediate rent emergencies — facing eviction, behind on payments, sudden loss of income — these are the fastest paths:

• Dial 211 (or visit 211.org) — connects you to local emergency rental assistance, food, utilities help, and case management. This should be your first call.
• Your local emergency rental assistance program — many states and cities still run programs funded by leftover federal pandemic dollars, especially for households facing eviction
• Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, St. Vincent de Paul — most U.S. cities have at least one of these offering one-time rent assistance
• Local religious organizations and community action agencies — find through 211

If you need ongoing help: Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher

The federal Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) is the largest ongoing rental assistance program. You receive a voucher, find a private rental that meets HUD quality standards, and the program pays part of your rent directly to your landlord.

Apply through your local Public Housing Agency (PHA). Find yours through HUD's PHA contact directory.

Realistic warning: waiting lists are long. Many PHAs have closed lists, and even when open, the wait after being added can run from months to several years. Apply to multiple PHAs in your area, and apply as early as possible.

If you're facing eviction right now

• Call 211 for emergency assistance and local legal aid
• LawHelp.org — free legal aid directory by state, including eviction help
• HUD-approved housing counseling — call (800) 569-4287 for free counseling on your options

For low-income tenants with kids, also look into TANF (cash assistance) and SNAP through your state — qualifying for one often opens the door to other emergency programs.

Why the scam ads are dangerous

"Free government grants" for rent don't exist as a federal program, and the FTC warns specifically about scammers targeting people who can't afford rent. Full guidance: consumer.ftc.gov/articles/government-grant-scams.