Rental Assistance Programs in Florida

Florida renters facing financial hardship have access to a variety of rental assistance programs at the state, county, and city level. These programs help cover overdue rent, future rent payments, utility costs, relocation expenses, and housing stability services for eligible tenants. While availability and eligibility can vary by location and funding, many residents — including families, low‑income households, seniors, and veterans — can benefit from these resources.

Statewide Rental Assistance Options

1. State Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)
Florida participates in federal rental assistance funds that are administered through the state’s Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes programs designed to help with past due rent, future rent, and utilities for households impacted by COVID‑19 or other financial hardship. Assistance is typically provided directly to landlords or utility providers on behalf of eligible tenants.

2. Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
The CSBG program supports local community action agencies across Florida, which may offer rental and utility assistance as part of broader self‑sufficiency services. This program is aimed at low‑income households seeking not only rent help but also employment services, budgeting support, and case management.

County and Local Rental Assistance Programs

3. Miami‑Dade County
Through the Department of Housing and Community Development, Miami‑Dade County provides rental and utility assistance to residents who meet income and hardship criteria. Services often include mediation between landlords and tenants, direct financial assistance, and housing stability resources.

4. Hillsborough County (Tampa area)
Home to the City of Tampa and surrounding communities, Hillsborough County has programs that support rent and utility payments for residents at risk of homelessness or housing instability. Partner agencies often operate housing counseling and financial education alongside direct assistance.

5. Orange County (Orlando area)
The Community Action Division in Orange County administers rental assistance for eligible low‑income households. Emergency rental help and stabilization services may be available for renters experiencing sudden job loss, medical hardship, or other qualifying financial setbacks.

6. Duval County (Jacksonville)
Through local housing and community services, Duval County provides support for rental arrears and eviction prevention. These services are typically accessed through partner nonprofit agencies and may include case management and tenant advocacy.

Smaller Cities and Regional Programs

7. Sarasota County
Smaller counties like Sarasota offer rental assistance through community action programs that connect residents with emergency rent and utility funds when available. These often have shorter application windows and limited funding, so early contact with local agencies is crucial.

8. Leon County (Tallahassee)
Leon County’s community services department administers emergency rental assistance and utility support to eligible tenants. The program also connects participants with additional social services, including food assistance and employment programs.

Specialized Assistance for Vulnerable Groups

9. Veterans
Veterans in Florida can explore rental assistance through local VA offices and veteran service organizations, such as the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs and county veteran service offices. Programs may offer emergency housing support, rent subsidies, or referrals to nonprofit partners.

10. Seniors and Disabled Renters
Several Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Florida provide information and referrals for rental assistance tailored to older adults and persons with disabilities. These programs work alongside HUD‑funded resources like Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) to help vulnerable populations maintain stable housing.

How to Apply and What to Expect

Rental assistance programs usually require documentation of income, rental hardship, and proof of Florida residency. Typical steps include:

• Locate the appropriate program for your city or county (e.g., Miami‑Dade, Hillsborough, Orange, Duval).
• Gather required documents: proof of income, lease agreement, ID, eviction notices, and utility bills.
• Submit an application either online, by mail, or in person through a housing authority or community action agency.
• Follow up with case managers or program administrators if additional information is requested.

Because funding availability changes, applying early and contacting local social services for assistance with the application can improve your chances of receiving support. Many counties partner with nonprofits to provide free application assistance.

Conclusion

Florida’s rental assistance landscape includes a mix of statewide programs and locally administered options tailored to diverse needs. While funding levels and eligibility criteria vary, many renters — especially those facing economic hardship, eviction risk, or special circumstances — can find help through county and city resources. Always check with your local housing authority or community services office for the most current information and application support.