HUD Public Housing Program

Applying for this for someone you care for? Eleplan keeps the paperwork, dates and documents in one plan.

Start free with Eleplan

Benefit program

HUD Public Housing Program

Federal

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (also known as HUD) administers federal aid to local housing agencies. If you meet the program guidelines, you pay no more than 30% of your adjusted gross income for your rental. You can take part in this program if you are 50 years of age or older, have a disability, and/or have limited income.

About this program

The HUD Public Housing Program offers safe, affordable rental homes to people and families with low incomes, including older adults and people with disabilities. Local public housing agencies own or manage these homes, and the amount you pay is usually based on your income.

Public housing is different from the Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) Program. Learn more about the HUD Public Housing Program, how it works, and if you can get help.

HUD Public Housing Quick Facts

What is it?

Lower-cost housing owned or managed by a local housing agency

Who may qualify?

People and families with low incomes, including older adults and people with disabilities

How much is rent?

Rent is usually based on household income

How do I apply?

Contact your local public housing agency.

Is there a waiting list?

Usually. The wait may last months or years.

What if I am denied?

Read your denial letter. You can ask for an informal hearing to have the decision reviewed.

Who qualifies for public housing?

You can take part in the HUD Public Housing Program if:

  • You are age 50 or older, have a disability, and/or have limited income.
  • You are a U.S. citizen and meet the other program guidelines. Some people who are not U.S. citizens may also take part in the program. Contact your local housing agency for more information about the program's citizenship rules.
  • Your income is below a certain limit:
  • Lower income limits are set at 80% of the median income for the area where you choose to live.
  • Very low-income limits are set at 50% of the median income for the area where you choose to live.

These limits vary by location, so you might qualify for HUD public housing in one area but not another. To find out if you qualify, ask your local housing agency.

How much rent will I pay in public housing?

The rent you pay is based on how much money you make—usually 30% of your income. Rent in public housing is lower than in private rentals, making them more affordable for households living on a low or fixed income.

Can I choose where I live in public housing?

You may have limited choices. HUD public housing includes specific apartments, houses, or buildings owned and managed by local housing agencies. These homes can be apartments, townhouses, single-family houses, or even high-rise buildings.

If you qualify for the program, you can live in one of these homes, but you cannot choose any rental home like you can with the Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) Program. Depending on where you live and the amount of assistance available, you may be placed on a waiting list.

How long is the public housing waiting list?

There’s no specific wait time for public housing. You may wait several months or even a few years, depending on where you live and which homes are available. Because of limited resources and high demand for housing, long waiting lists are common. Contact your local housing agency to check your status and keep your contact information updated.

How do I apply for HUD public housing?

If you want to apply for public housing, you need to contact your local housing agency. You can search for your local agency here by using the drop-down menu or clicking on your state on the map. If you have trouble reaching your agency, contact the local field office for your area.

You must fill out a public housing application in writing (you or a housing agency worker can complete it). It may ask for the following information:

  • Names, birthdates, and relationships of people living with you
  • Your current address and phone number
  • Special situations (like being a veteran or living in poor-quality housing) that may help you qualify faster
  • Names and addresses of past landlords to check if you are a good tenant
  • Your expected income for the next year and where it comes from
  • Names and addresses of employers, banks, or others to confirm your income and household details

It’s a good idea to have this information ready when you apply. Make sure everything is correct—especially your contact details so you don’t miss important updates.

What happens after I apply for HUD public housing?

After you apply for HUD public housing, the housing agency will review your application. An agency worker may also do a home visit to check how you take care of your current place.

Once your application has been reviewed, they will send you a letter. If you qualify for housing, your name goes on a waiting list, unless a home is available right away. When your turn comes, the agency will contact you. If you don’t qualify, the agency must tell you why. You can ask for a hearing if you disagree.

Once you accept a home or apartment, you will sign a lease (a rental agreement). You may need to pay a security deposit. An agency worker will explain the lease so you understand your responsibilities and theirs.

Generally, you can stay in public housing as long as you want to, as long as you are income-eligible and meet lease requirements.

Who gets preference for HUD public housing?

Sometimes, certain households get priority for public housing because they need it the most. This helps the housing agency help those in greatest need.

Because many people apply for housing, the waiting list can be very long. The agency may stop accepting applications if too many families are already waiting.

Each housing agency sets its own rules for who gets priority. These rules are written in their policy manual. Ask your local agency if they have special preferences (and if you qualify for one).

How can I get help with my application?

To apply, you must go through your local Public Housing Agency. If you need help with the application process, your local PHA can assist you—or you can:

  • Complete the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s online help request form to have a representative contact you.

NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-800-794-6559.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What should I do if my application for public housing is denied?

The housing agency must send you a letter telling you why your application was denied. If you think the decision is wrong, you can ask for an informal hearing. Follow the instructions in the letter and respond by the deadline.

Can people with disabilities qualify for public housing?

Yes. People with disabilities may qualify if they meet the program’s income and other rules. Ask your local housing agency about accessible homes and accommodations.

Can I be removed from the public housing waiting list?

Yes. You may be removed if the housing agency cannot contact you, you miss a deadline, or you no longer qualify. You can also be removed if you refuse an offer of housing with no valid reason. Be sure to keep your contact information up-to-date and respond to every notice you receive about public housing.

Categories

Housing & Utilities

Populations served

Low Income

Informational only — official eligibility is determined by the administering agency.

Look up another benefit

Powered by Eleplan

Turn benefit information into your next steps.

Create a free care plan, then work with Ellie on an application checklist. Check the requirements before deciding whether to apply.