Minnesota offers a range of rental assistance programs to help individuals and families maintain stable housing. Whether you’re facing financial difficulties, seeking long-term affordability, or recovering from an unexpected crisis, these programs provide the support needed to ensure housing security.

Emergency Assistance for Immediate Needs

If you’re at risk of eviction or struggling to pay your rent, Minnesota’s emergency programs can offer immediate relief.

Emergency Assistance (EA)

  • What It Does: Provides short-term financial assistance to prevent eviction or homelessness.
  • Eligibility: Families with children, low-income households, and individuals experiencing a temporary financial crisis.
  • How to Apply:
    • Contact your county’s Human Services Office.
    • Applications can often be submitted online or in person.

Emergency General Assistance (EGA)

  • Who It Helps: Single adults or childless couples experiencing a financial emergency.
  • Key Support: Covers overdue rent, utilities, or relocation expenses.
  • Where to Start: Visit your local county office for more information.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, provides rental subsidies to eligible low-income individuals and families, helping them afford safe and decent housing.

  • How It Works: Participants pay a portion of their income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest.
  • Eligibility: Income limits vary by county; priority is often given to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with children.
  • Where to Apply: Contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) to check availability and join the waiting list.

Minnesota Housing Support Program

The Housing Support Program (formerly Group Residential Housing) assists individuals with disabilities, seniors, and others with low incomes by providing rent subsidies for eligible housing.

  • Services Included: Rent, utilities, and in some cases, meals or supportive services.
  • How to Qualify: Must meet income requirements and have a qualifying condition (e.g., disability or long-term illness).

Bridges Rental Assistance Program

The Bridges Program offers rental assistance for individuals with serious mental illnesses. It acts as a bridge to long-term housing options like Section 8 vouchers.

  • Eligibility: Must be diagnosed with a serious mental illness and meet income guidelines.
  • Where to Apply: Contact your local Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) or Continuum of Care (CoC) provider.

Minnesota Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP)

The FHPAP is designed to prevent homelessness and rapidly rehouse families and individuals who have already lost their homes.

  • Support Includes: Financial assistance, case management, and housing navigation services.
  • How to Access: Connect with your local community action agency or call 2-1-1 for a referral.

Nonprofit and Community-Based Resources

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS)

LSS provides emergency rent support, housing counseling, and financial management services to help renters stabilize their housing situations.

The Salvation Army

Through its HeatShare and other programs, the Salvation Army offers rent and utility assistance to low-income Minnesotans.

Catholic Charities of Minnesota

Provides direct financial aid, eviction prevention support, and access to transitional housing programs.

Programs for Special Populations

  • Veterans: The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) offers rent support, transitional housing, and legal aid for veterans experiencing housing instability.
  • Native American Communities: Tribal housing authorities provide targeted rental assistance and support programs for Native American households.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance in Minnesota

  1. Determine Eligibility: Review income and household requirements for each program.
  2. Contact Agencies: Reach out to local county offices, nonprofit organizations, or housing authorities to inquire about applications.
  3. Prepare Documents: Have proof of income, identification, rental agreements, and any eviction notices ready.

Conclusion

Minnesota’s rental assistance programs are a lifeline for individuals and families in need, offering both short-term relief and long-term affordability solutions. Whether you’re seeking to stabilize your housing or recover from a financial setback, these programs can provide the necessary support to help you stay on track.

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