Three Affordable Housing Programs for Seniors

Finding safe, affordable housing can be one of the biggest financial challenges for seniors living on fixed incomes, but you may qualify for help without realizing it. From government-subsidized apartments to nonprofit initiatives, specialized programs are designed to keep housing costs manageable while maintaining independence.

This article breaks down three little-known but vital housing programs for older adults, including eligibility tips and application strategies. Whether you're struggling with rising rent or need accessible home modifications, these resources could be the key to securing a comfortable, budget-friendly home for years.

Affordable housing programs can help low-income seniors find a safe, stable place to live without spending most of their income on rent. While the application process can be slow and competitive, programs like Section 8, Section 202, and LIHTC offer real options for qualifying seniors.

Affordable Housing for Seniors

Senior housing can be costly, so seniors often have to spend the majority of their retirement savings on rent.

Luckily, there are affordable housing programs that can help you find the best quality of care for yourself or a loved one without breaking the bank.

Here are three Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs with a silver lining.

Option 1: Low-income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)

While not specifically targeted toward senior living, this federally funded program aims to ensure there is enough low-income housing to meet the needs of the population.

According to HUD, which created the LIHTC, an average of 105,000 units were made available annually from 1995 to 2011.

The building owner chooses how many units will be set aside for low-income residents. Owners accept the rent amount specified by HUD to participate in the program and be eligible for tax credits.

A senior who meets the HUD income criteria can research their local area for HUD-approved dwellings that offer the housing tax credit. Be aware that many properties have a waiting list, and open waitlists may be limited depending on demand in your area. These listings are a good starting point if you're looking for an affordable apartment with basic features like a bathroom and laundry access.

Option 2: Housing Choice Voucher Program

Commonly known as Section 8, this affordable housing option enables low-income residents to rent “safe and reasonable” apartments or other accommodations.

Under Section 8, landlords accept 30 percent of the family or individual’s income as a full rent payment.

To be eligible, your individual income must not exceed 50 percent of the median income in the local area. Section 8 is not a senior-specific low-income program. Many local housing authorities maintain a waiting list, and it’s important to check for open waitlists periodically. This can help you find an affordable place that suits your needs.

Option 3: Section 202 Supportive Housing Program

Also HUD-funded, the Section 202 Supportive Housing Program is specifically geared toward adults aged 62 and older who meet the “very low income” requirement.

It’s the only government-subsidized affordable housing program offered exclusively for seniors. Section 202, similar in structure to Section 8, currently funds over a quarter million senior living units.

Participants pay 30 percent of their income for rent, with the HUD subsidy making up the balance. Many Section 202 communities have a waiting list, so applying early and checking for open waitlists is advised. These communities may include senior-friendly features such as a private bathroom and on-site laundry.

Challenges for Seniors Applying for Affordable Housing Programs

When applying for affordable housing programs, seniors may face several steps and challenges, including:

1. Long Waiting Lists– Most programs, especially Section 8 and Section 202, have long waiting lists. In some areas, lists are closed for months or even years. Seniors may have to monitor local housing authority websites for open waitlists and apply quickly when they become available.
2. Complex Applications– Applications often require documentation such as proof of income, identification, Social Security benefits, and medical expense records. This can be a barrier for seniors with limited mobility, memory issues, or no help from family.
3. Digital Divide– Many applications are now online. Seniors without internet access or digital skills may struggle to apply or check their status.
4. Limited Availability– Even if a senior qualifies, finding a senior-friendly apartment (e.g., with an accessible bathroom, grab bars, no stairs, or nearby laundry) can be difficult, especially in high-demand cities.
5. Income and Eligibility Checks—Seniors must meet income limits, which vary by area. They may also face eligibility reviews or background checks, including rental or credit history.
6. Lack of Support– Seniors without a case manager, social worker, or family advocate might struggle to navigate the process or keep up with paperwork.

Affordable Housing Application Tips

Here are some practical tips to help seniors navigate the affordable housing application process:

✅ Get Organized Early

Gather key documents: ID, Social Security card, proof of income (Social Security, pensions), bank statements, and medical expense records.

Make copies and keep them in one place for easy access.

✅ Sign Up for Alerts

Check local housing authority websites and sign up for email or text alerts about open waitlists.

Some nonprofits also provide notification services for when applications open.

✅ Get Help from Local Resources

Reach out to local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers, or nonprofit housing organizations. They often have staff who can assist with paperwork or online forms.

✅ Apply to Multiple Programs

Don’t rely on just one option. Apply to Section 8, Section 202, and any local or state-run affordable apartment programs.

Keep track of where and when you applied.

✅ Follow Up

After applying, follow up to confirm that your application was received and complete.

Ask how to update your file if your income or contact info changes.

✅ Be Prepared to Wait

Many programs have a waiting list. Check your status occasionally, and update your application if required to stay active.

✅ Request Reasonable Accommodations

If you have a disability or health issue, you can request help filling out forms or ask for accommodations during the process (e.g., a ground-floor unit or a unit with a walk-in bathroom).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is low-income housing based on credit?

Low-income housing programs, such as those run by HUD (like Section 8 or Section 202), are primarily based on income, not credit. However, individual property owners or housing authorities may check credit history as part of their screening process. A poor credit score doesn't automatically disqualify someone, especially for subsidized housing, but things like recent evictions, unpaid rent, or utility bills in collections might be considered.

What's the difference between Section 8 and affordable housing?

Section 8 is a specific federal program that provides housing vouchers to help low-income individuals and families pay rent in the private market. Tenants typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, and the government covers the rest.

Affordable housing is a broader term that includes various types of housing—public, nonprofit, or privately owned—offered at below-market rates to people with low or moderate incomes. This includes programs like LIHTC, Section 202, and others. Section 8 is one type of affordable housing, but not all affordable housing is Section 8.

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