Housing ReliefEven if you’ve never applied for housing assistance before, you probably have heard that Section 8 can make rent more affordable. While that may be the most popular affordable housing program out there, Section 202 offers similar help for seniors.
Whether you’re a senior seeking a cheaper apartment or are the friend or relative of someone who needs such a service, keep reading. We’ll look at what Section 202 is, how it can help, how to be eligible, and how to apply for this monthly money-saving program.
Section 202 Background
Formally named the Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program, Section 202 has been around for over six decades. In that time, it has created over 400,000 units explicitly made with seniors in mind.
Unlike standard apartments, Section 202 properties, depending on location, may feature such senior-focused options as grab rails and ramps. Some units are built to adequately accommodate residents in wheelchairs as well.
Making rent more affordable may be Section 202’s primary benefit, but beyond grab rails, ramps, and wheelchair accessibility, some properties also offer amenities such as:
- Daily activities for seniors.
- Transportation for shopping, medical visits, and more.
- Care coordinators to help residents with their various needs like meals and bathing.
- Social spaces for events, eating, and mingling.
Affordable Rent Through Section 202
It’s hard to get past those attractive amenities for seniors, but, once again, Section 202’s most significant benefit is its financial assistance. For seniors who qualify and are accepted into the program, they can live in an apartment by only paying 30 percent of their income towards rent. This is crucial for anyone on a fixed income who is no longer working.
What does it take to get such significant rental assistance through Section 202? First, there must be at least one senior citizen living in the home. For the program’s purpose, this means one person must be 62 years of age or older.
Second, an income requirement must be met. To qualify, your income cannot exceed half of the area’s median income where you are hoping to live. To get an idea of the median income limits, go here.
Beyond those two main requirements, your eligibility may be negatively affected if you’ve been terminated from housing assistance or still owe money to a housing authority. The same holds if you’ve been evicted within the last five years from HUD housing.
Some landlords or management companies may still accept you if you have a criminal history that includes drug or violent offenses. Such convictions can make it harder to qualify, however.
As a side note, you may be required to already receive government assistance from other programs to qualify for Section 202. This will depend on your location.
Apply for Section 202 Now
The demand for senior housing assistance is quite high. Even if you meet all the requirements, you could be placed on a lengthy waiting list.
To avoid a long wait, apply for Section 202 now by contacting your nearest Public Housing Agency. If you know of a specific Section 202 property, you can also apply by contacting its management company or landlord.
