Finding stable and affordable housing can be challenging, but New Hampshire offers a variety of resources and programs to assist residents in need. Whether you’re facing eviction, struggling to pay rent, or seeking affordable housing options, this guide outlines the steps you can take to secure housing support in New Hampshire.

Step 1: Assess Your Housing Needs

Before seeking assistance, determine the type of help you need:

  • Rental Assistance: Financial aid for past-due or future rent payments.
  • Emergency Housing: Temporary shelter for individuals or families facing homelessness.
  • Affordable Housing Options: Long-term solutions for low-income households.
  • Utility Assistance: Support for paying utility bills to maintain housing stability.

Step 2: Contact Your Local Community Action Partnership (CAP)

New Hampshire’s Community Action Partnerships (CAPs) are the primary resource for accessing housing assistance programs. These regional organizations provide rental aid, utility assistance, and other support services.

Major CAP Agencies in New Hampshire:

  • Southern New Hampshire Services (SNHS)
  • Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties
  • Southwestern Community Services (SCS)

How to Get Started:

  • Visit the website of your local CAP agency or call to schedule an appointment.
  • Be prepared to provide documents such as proof of income, identification, and your lease agreement.

Step 3: Apply for the New Hampshire Emergency Rental Assistance Program (NHERAP)

If you’re struggling with rent or utilities, NHERAP can provide financial aid to help you stay in your home. This program covers past-due rent, upcoming rent payments, and utility costs.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Income must be below 80% of the area median income.
  • Must demonstrate financial hardship due to circumstances like job loss, medical expenses, or reduced income.

How to Apply:

  • Applications are processed through your local CAP agency.
  • Funds are paid directly to landlords or utility providers on your behalf.

Step 4: Explore Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

For those seeking long-term housing solutions, the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) offers rent subsidies for eligible low-income families. The program is administered by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA).

How It Works:

  • Approved participants receive a voucher to cover a portion of their rent.
  • Renters are responsible for finding a landlord who accepts Section 8 vouchers.

Waitlists:
Due to high demand, there may be waitlists for Section 8 vouchers. However, it’s worth applying to secure a spot.

Step 5: Seek Emergency Housing Services

If you are facing imminent homelessness, New Hampshire offers emergency housing options. Organizations such as Families in Transition and New Horizons provide shelter, food, and case management services.

Steps to Access Emergency Housing:

  1. Call 2-1-1 New Hampshire to be connected to local shelter resources.
  2. Work with case managers to develop a plan for transitioning into permanent housing.

Step 6: Look into Specialized Assistance Programs

Depending on your situation, you may qualify for additional support:

  • Veterans: Programs like Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and HUD-VASH offer rental assistance and case management to veterans.
  • Families with Children: The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program can provide financial aid for housing-related expenses.
  • Domestic Violence Survivors: Organizations like the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence offer housing assistance and advocacy services.

Step 7: Use Online Resources to Search for Affordable Housing

The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) maintains an online database of affordable housing options across the state. These listings include apartments, single-family homes, and senior housing options.

Tips for Finding Housing Online:

  • Filter listings by location, income requirements, and family size.
  • Contact property managers directly to inquire about availability and application requirements.

Step 8: Communicate with Your Landlord

If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, reach out to your landlord as soon as possible. Open communication may help you negotiate a payment plan or avoid eviction while you seek assistance.

Step 9: Stay Organized and Proactive

Housing assistance programs often require detailed documentation and regular follow-ups. Keep the following in mind:

  • Gather all necessary documents in advance (e.g., income verification, lease agreement, eviction notices).
  • Submit applications as early as possible, especially for high-demand programs like Section 8.
  • Follow up with program administrators to ensure your application is being processed.

Conclusion

Housing help is available in New Hampshire, whether you’re facing a short-term financial setback or need long-term support. From rental assistance programs to emergency shelters, the state provides a range of resources to help residents secure and maintain housing stability. By taking proactive steps and utilizing the resources outlined above, you can find the assistance you need to stay housed and build a stable future.

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