How to Apply for the HUD Housing Assistance Program

Housing assistance programs such as HUD are designed to help those with a significant need to find housing that is both safe and affordable. The application process can be long and sometimes difficult when the need is urgent but taking the time to apply nonetheless can be extremely rewarding.

Instructions

1. Call or visit your local housing agency (HA) to pick up or find out where to pick up the actual application and applicable paper work as well as set up an appointment.

   You can visit their website (provided below in the resource section )to find out the contact information for your area.

2. Fill out your HUD housing assistance application. You will be asked to provide information regarding your current and previous living situations including addresses and landlord information, yearly and monthly income, employment, how many people do and will reside with you and also other financial information (bank accounts, bonds, savings etc).

3. Provide any required paperwork that is requested. If possible bring in copies of leases, pay stubs, Social Security cards (for everyone in the household), birth certificates, bank statements, bills, disability verification, public assistance documents and any other pertinent information with you when you go to apply or turn in your application.

4. Anticipate a home visit where a housing agent will come to your residence to speak with anyone else who lives with you to help judge your need and eligibility for assistance with rent and or housing. This visit will also be used to verify any information that you claim when you first apply.

5. Turn in your application and you will have to wait until you are contacted by HUD or an associated program assistance agent. They do not guarantee a time frame in which you will be contacted and the wait can be extensive so feel free to call in and check up on your application.

   When they come to a decision on your eligibility you will receive notification of that decision and if approved you will get an appointment to come in and talk with someone regarding the assistance program and what it takes and entails. If you are denied you will be given the exact reason(s) that made you ineligible for the program and the chance to reapply if your situation changes.

Resources

• HUD Website