10 Emergency Rent Assistance Programs You Should Know

Finding help with rent can feel overwhelming, especially when eviction notices arrive or overdue bills pile up. The good news is that several emergency rent assistance programs remain active in 2026. Some are federal, while others operate at state or local levels. This guide highlights ten programs you should know, explains how they work, and shows you how to apply.

1. Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA)

The ERA program, created during the COVID‑19 pandemic, remains one of the largest rent relief efforts in U.S. history. Although ERA2 funding has ended, many states still manage leftover funds. ERA has already delivered over $46 billion in assistance and more than 10 million payments to renters. Families facing eviction should check their state housing authority for remaining funds.

2. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

Section 8 vouchers provide long‑term rental support. Families pay a portion of rent, while the voucher covers the rest. Local housing authorities manage applications, and waiting lists remain long. This program is not strictly emergency relief, but it stabilizes housing for families at risk.

3. Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) created EHV to help vulnerable populations. HUD distributed 70,000 vouchers to local housing authorities for individuals who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or fleeing domestic violence.

4. State‑Level Rental Assistance Programs

Many states continue to operate their own rental assistance programs. For example, California and New York have extended relief funds to cover overdue rent. These programs vary by state, but they often provide direct payments to landlords on behalf of tenants.

5. Local Nonprofit Rental Assistance

Nonprofits like Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, and United Way offer emergency rental assistance. These organizations provide short‑term help, often covering one or two months of rent. They also connect families with food, utility, and childcare support.

6. Community Action Agencies

Community Action Agencies (CAAs) operate in nearly every county. They provide emergency rental assistance, utility support, and case management. CAAs often receive federal funding but deliver services locally, making them accessible to families in crisis.

7. Tribal Rental Assistance Programs

Tribal governments administer rental assistance programs for Native American communities. These programs often combine federal ERA funding with tribal resources. They provide rent support, utility coverage, and housing counseling.

8. Disaster Relief Rental Assistance

After natural disasters, FEMA and state agencies provide rental assistance. For example, families displaced by hurricanes or wildfires may qualify for temporary housing support. These programs cover rent until permanent housing becomes available.

9. Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)

The Department of Veterans Affairs partners with HUD to provide rental assistance for veterans. VASH combines vouchers with supportive services like counseling and healthcare. Veterans facing eviction or homelessness should contact their local VA office.

10. Charitable Foundations and Emergency Grants

Private foundations sometimes offer emergency rental grants. For example, community foundations in large cities provide short‑term relief for families facing eviction. These grants are smaller than federal programs but can bridge gaps during emergencies.

How to Apply

Applying for rental assistance requires preparation. Here are practical steps:

Check Eligibility: Read program requirements carefully. Eligibility often depends on income, household size, and residency.
Gather Documents: Collect proof of income, identification, lease agreements, and overdue rent notices.
Submit Applications: Apply online through official portals like HUD.gov, Grants.gov, or state housing authority websites.
Follow Up: Track your application status and respond quickly to requests for additional information.
Stay Organized: Keep copies of all documents and communications.

Positive and Negative Differences

The positive side of these programs is that they provide real relief, often preventing eviction. ERA and EHV have already helped millions of families. The negative side is that funding varies by state, waiting lists are long, and some programs have ended. Families must act quickly and stay informed to access available support.

Quick Comparison

Program	Type	Who Benefits	Key Notes
ERA	Federal	Renters facing eviction	$46B provided, 10M payments
Section 8 Vouchers	Federal	Low‑income families	Long waiting lists HUD.gov
Emergency Housing Vouchers	Federal	Homeless, DV survivors	70,000 vouchers HUD.gov
State Programs	State	Renters in crisis	Varies by state
Nonprofit Assistance	Local	Families in need	Covers 1–2 months rent
Community Action Agencies	Local	Low‑income households	Utility and rent support
Tribal Programs	Tribal	Native American families	Combines ERA and tribal funds
Disaster Relief Assistance	Federal/State	Disaster survivors	Temporary housing
VASH	Federal	Veterans	Vouchers plus support
Charitable Foundations	Private	Families in crisis	Short‑term grants

Emergency rental assistance programs remain essential in 2026. While ERA funding has ended, leftover funds and other programs continue to help families. Section 8, EHV, TANF, and nonprofit support all provide relief. According to the U.S. Treasury, ERA programs have already delivered over $46 billion in aid and more than 10 million payments, proving their impact on housing stability. Families should act quickly, gather documents, and apply through official portals to secure help before funds run out.