Housing Assistance for Seniors in Connecticut

Last updated: January 09, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 2‑1‑1 Connecticut for 24/7 help with emergency shelter, rent, utilities, and food. Or visit the 2‑1‑1 Connecticut website: https://www.211ct.org/
• Facing eviction now? Check Right to Counsel eligibility and free tenant help at Eviction Help CT: https://www.evictionhelpct.org/
• Need legal advice fast? Statewide Legal Services intake line: 1‑800‑453‑3320; website: https://www.slsct.org/
• Homelessness response (Coordinated Access Network): call 2‑1‑1 and say “housing” to be connected to your local CAN.
• Veterans experiencing housing crisis: call the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1‑877‑4AID‑VET (1‑877‑424‑3838) or see Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/

---

Key Takeaways

• Connecticut offers rental help (RAP, Section 8), a renter’s rebate for older/disabled renters, and property tax relief for homeowners. See the programs below and where to apply.
• Utility and heating help is available every winter through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Weatherization and energy‑efficiency upgrades can lower bills year‑round.
• Most rental voucher waiting lists are long and open by lottery. Apply when lists open, and use 2‑1‑1 Connecticut to find openings and short‑term help.
• Legal help for eviction is free for eligible low‑income tenants. Start with Statewide Legal Services or Eviction Help CT.
• Many services for aging in place (home care, modifications, caregiver support) are coordinated through the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Area Agencies on Aging; see MyPlaceCT for options: https://www.myplacect.org/

---

What this guide covers

This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub for seniors in Connecticut looking for housing help—rent, utilities, home repairs, long‑term care options, and legal support. We link to official sources so you can apply with confidence.

Where possible, we include realistic timelines, common roadblocks, and tips to avoid delays.

---

The Cost Picture (so you can plan)

• Typical care costs vary by setting and change yearly. For current Connecticut averages (home care, assisted living, nursing home), see the Genworth Cost of Care Survey: https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html
• Expect waiting lists for rental vouchers and subsidized units. Keep paperwork ready (ID, proof of income, Social Security statements, rent receipts, utility bills).

Reality check: Connecticut’s rental market is tight, especially in Fairfield, New Haven, and Greater Hartford counties. It often takes a mix of short‑term help (like energy or rental arrears assistance) and longer‑term strategies (joining voucher lotteries, applying to multiple senior housing sites) to stabilize housing.

---

Quick Program Finder (Start Here)

Sources: CT Office of Policy & Management (OPM), CT Department of Housing (DOH), CT Department of Social Services (DSS), CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP), HUD, USDA Rural Development.

---

Rental Help for Seniors

1) Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)

• What it is: A federal voucher that pays part of your rent directly to your landlord. You pay the rest, usually around 30% of your income.
• Who it serves: Low‑income households, including seniors.
• How to apply: Waiting lists open and close by lottery. Apply through local housing authorities or the state’s Section 8 program when lists open.
• Where to learn more:
  • HUD’s overview and basics: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
  • Find housing authorities in Connecticut: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ct
  • CT Department of Housing: https://portal.ct.gov/DOH

Reality check: Lists can be closed for long periods. When a list opens, apply the first day if possible. Keep documents scanned or copied, and check email regularly for lottery results or requests for more information.

2) Connecticut Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

• What it is: A state‑funded voucher similar to Section 8.
• Who it serves: Very low‑income renters, including seniors.
• How it helps: Pays part of rent to bring costs down to a reasonable share of your income.
• Apply/learn more: Start at the CT Department of Housing page for programs and updates: https://portal.ct.gov/DOH

Tip: RAP also uses waiting lists and lotteries. Check 2‑1‑1 Connecticut and DOH announcements for openings.

3) State‑Sponsored Elderly/Disabled Housing (Project‑Based)

• What it is: Income‑restricted apartments reserved for older adults (generally 62+) and people with disabilities. Rent is typically set at a percentage of income.
• Who runs it: Local housing authorities and nonprofit owners; properties are part of the State‑Sponsored Housing Portfolio (SSHP) overseen by DOH.
• How to apply: Apply directly at each property or through the local housing authority. Search units statewide at the CT Housing Search site: https://www.cthousingsearch.org/
• Learn about DOH programs: https://portal.ct.gov/DOH

Reality check: Each site has its own waiting list. Apply to several properties across nearby towns to improve your odds.

4) Congregate Housing for the Elderly (with services on site)

• What it is: Apartments for older adults (usually 62+) with shared services such as meals or light housekeeping through a licensed service agency.
• Who it serves: Seniors who can live independently but benefit from on‑site support.
• Apply: Through participating towns/property owners; ask your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for sites near you: https://portal.ct.gov/ADS/General/Contact-the-AAAs/Area-Agencies-on-Aging-in-Connecticut
• Program information (CT DOH): https://portal.ct.gov/DOH

5) Connecticut Renters’ Rebate (Ages 65+ or Disabled)

• What it is: A cash rebate based on rent and utility payments.
• Who qualifies: Connecticut renters age 65+ or persons with disabilities (18+) who meet income limits.
• Application window: April 1 to October 1 each year.
• Where to apply: Contact your town assessor or social services office; see the official OPM page for eligibility, forms, and town contacts: https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/IGPP-ANF-Renters-Rebate-Program/Grants/FOR-RENTERS/RENTERS-REBATE-PROGRAM

Tip: If mobility is an issue, ask your town about telephone or drop‑off applications. Some towns offer in‑home appointments.

---

Homeowner Help for Seniors

1) Property Tax Relief (Circuit Breaker) for Elderly/Disabled Homeowners

• What it is: A property tax credit applied to your bill if you meet income and residency rules.
• Who qualifies: Homeowners age 65+ or disabled, within income limits; the credit amount varies by income and town.
• Where to apply: Through your town assessor’s office (usually between February 1 and May 15). Bring proof of income (e.g., SSA‑1099, tax return).
• Official info (OPM): https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/IGPP-ANF-HP/Tax-Relief/Tax-Relief-Programs

2) Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (EMAP)

• What it is: A CHFA loan that can help eligible homeowners catch up on mortgage payments and avoid foreclosure due to a temporary hardship.
• Who qualifies: Income and hardship screening apply.
• Where to learn more/apply: Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA): https://www.chfa.org/

Reality check: Don’t wait if you’re behind on your mortgage. Call your servicer and explore EMAP early. Missing deadlines can limit options.

3) Weatherization & Energy Upgrades (to lower bills)

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy‑saving measures (insulation, air sealing, heating system tune‑ups) for income‑eligible households. Learn more via CT DEEP and your Community Action Agency: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Energy
• EnergizeCT – Home Energy Solutions (HES) and Income‑Eligible (HES‑IE): Utility‑run programs providing in‑home energy assessments and improvements; income‑eligible households may pay little or nothing. Start here: https://www.energizect.com/
• Smart‑E Loan (CT Green Bank): Low‑interest loans for energy efficiency and clean energy improvements through participating lenders. Details: https://www.ctgreenbank.com/smarte/

4) Home Repair and Accessibility

• USDA Single‑Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): For very low‑income rural homeowners; loans up to $40,000at1$10,000 for those 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. Program details and how to apply: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Municipal Housing Rehabilitation (CDBG Small Cities): Many towns offer low‑ or no‑interest loans or grants for code fixes, roofs, plumbing/electrical, and accessibility. Ask your town’s Community Development office or check 2‑1‑1 for “housing rehabilitation” in your town. Program funding comes from HUD’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydevelopment/programs
• Lead Hazard Reduction: Grants for lead hazard control (window replacement, paint stabilization) are available in select communities. See the CT Department of Public Health lead program and ask your local health department about current grants: https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Environmental-Health/Lead-Poisoning-Prevention-and-Control/Lead-Poisoning-Prevention-and-Control

Tip: If you’re considering in‑home modifications (ramps, grab bars, bathroom changes), ask your care manager through the CT Home Care Program for Elders (below) about funding options and reputable contractors.

---

Help with Long‑Term Services, Home Care, and Aging in Place

Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)

• What it is: A state/Medicaid program that helps eligible adults age 65+ get in‑home supports (personal care, homemaker, adult day, respite, care management) so they can remain at home.
• Who qualifies: Functional and financial eligibility apply; there are Medicaid waiver and state‑funded portions.
• Learn more and start: Connecticut DSS – MyPlaceCT has plain‑language information and contacts: https://www.myplacect.org/ • DSS main site: https://portal.ct.gov/DSS

Money Follows the Person (MFP)

• What it is: Helps people move from nursing homes back to community housing with services and transition supports.
• Start here: https://www.myplacect.org/

Reality check: There may be wait times for services and provider availability in some regions. Ask about interim supports, caregiver programs, and adult day health services while you wait.

---

Utility, Heating, and Water Help

• Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP): Helps pay winter heating bills (oil, gas, electric, propane). Apply through your local Community Action Agency. DSS CEAP page: https://portal.ct.gov/DSS/Economic-Security/Heating-Assistance/CEAP-Program
• Arrearage forgiveness/payment plans: Most utilities offer hardship plans that can forgive part of your past‑due balance if you keep up with a plan. Call your utility and ask for hardship or “arrearage forgiveness” programs; see options at EnergizeCT: https://www.energizect.com/
• Operation Fuel: Year‑round emergency energy and water assistance when other programs are closed or exhausted. Apply online or via a partner agency: https://operationfuel.org/

Tip: Apply early in the season. Keep copies of fuel delivery slips and utility bills to speed up processing.

---

Legal Help, Tenant Rights, and Eviction Defense

Reality check: Never ignore a Notice to Quit or a Summons and Complaint. Deadlines are short. If you can’t find a lawyer, use CTLawHelp and the Judicial Branch site to file the required forms on time, and keep proof of rent or assistance applications to show the court.

---

Finding Affordable Senior Housing

• Search available units statewide (filter by senior/accessible units): CT Housing Search: https://www.cthousingsearch.org/
• Check both “senior” and “disabled/elderly” listings. Many properties serve both groups and have separate waitlists.
• Look at neighboring towns to reduce wait times. Ask properties about preferences (e.g., local residency) that may affect your place on the list.
• Keep a housing binder: photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income (Social Security benefit letter, pension), bank statements, last year’s tax return if filed, current lease, utility bills, and contact info for past landlords.

---

Special Focus: Who You Are Matters

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Connecticut law bans housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. If you experience discrimination, contact the CT Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO): https://portal.ct.gov/CHRO
• For housing search help, you can also contact the Connecticut Fair Housing Center: https://www.ctfairhousing.org/
• National support and information: SAGE Elder Hotline (877‑360‑LGBT) and resources: https://www.sageusa.org/

Tip: If you feel uncomfortable at a property visit or with a landlord, document what happened (who, when, what was said) and reach out to CHRO or CFHC.

Veterans (Older Veterans and Spouses/Surviving Spouses)

• Emergency/short‑term housing help: VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) can help with rent, deposits, and case management: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) offers residential and support services and can help connect you to housing programs: https://portal.ct.gov/DVA
• Homeownership and foreclosure help: See CHFA programs for homeowners, including EMAP: https://www.chfa.org/

Tip: Bring your DD‑214 to appointments. If you don’t have it, ask DVA for help obtaining records.

Seniors with Disabilities

• ADA and reasonable accommodations apply in housing. Landlords may need to allow reasonable modifications (at your expense unless assistance is available). Learn about your rights at CTLawHelp: https://ctlawhelp.org/
• Accessibility funding options: USDA Section 504 grants/loans, municipal housing rehab programs, and energy programs that include health/safety repairs. See program links above.
• Independent living resources: Explore the statewide portal MyPlaceCT for assistive technology, home mods, transportation, and care services: https://www.myplacect.org/

Tribal Members (Mashantucket Pequot, Mohegan)

• If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, ask your tribal government or housing department about elder housing and repair programs.
• HUD’s Office of Native American Programs (Eastern Woodlands) can provide program information and contacts: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih/codetalk/onap/regions/ew/onap-ew

Rural Seniors

• Many northeastern and northwestern Connecticut towns are rural with limited rentals and contractors. Combine options: apply to multiple towns for senior housing, use USDA Section 504 for critical repairs, and work with your Area Agency on Aging for home care and transportation.
• If broadband is limited, ask your library or senior center for help submitting online applications. 2‑1‑1 can also help complete referrals by phone: https://www.211ct.org/

---

Program Details and How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)

Rental Programs Summary

Application steps that help:

• Gather documents: ID, Social Security card, proof of income (SSA benefit letter), bank statements, assets, current lease.
• Apply to multiple programs and properties. Keep a list of confirmations and dates.
• Respond fast to follow‑up letters or emails. Missed deadlines often push applications to the bottom or close them.
• If denied, request the reason in writing and ask about appeal rights.

Homeowner & Repair Programs Summary

Tips:

• Ask contractors for senior discounts and insist on written contracts. Check licenses on the Department of Consumer Protection site before hiring.
• For major repairs, see if your town offers CDBG‑funded rehab loans/grants (often deferred or 0% interest).

---

Paying Utility and Heating Bills

Reality check: CEAP benefit amounts and dates change each year. Always check the DSS CEAP page for the current season’s rules.

---

Health, Long‑Term Care, and Housing

Housing and care often go together. If you’re making a housing move, look at care needs too:

• In‑home help: Through CHCPE (65+), you may get personal care, homemaker hours, adult day care, and respite. Start here: https://www.myplacect.org/
• Assisted living and memory care: Costs are typically private‑pay, but some residents in certain state‑assisted housing sites may qualify for subsidized assisted living services through state programs. Ask your AAA or MyPlaceCT about options near you.
• Nursing home costs: Medicaid can help if you qualify financially and medically. Contact DSS or ask for benefits counseling through your AAA.

Planning tool: Ask your AAA for a benefits checkup and a care plan that fits your budget and health needs.

---

Regional Help: Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Community Action Agencies (CAAs)

These agencies are key partners for seniors. AAAs can help with benefits, caregiver support, and long‑term services. CAAs handle CEAP and weatherization and often run housing stabilization programs.

Find your AAA (state page): https://portal.ct.gov/ADS/General/Contact-the-AAAs/Area-Agencies-on-Aging-in-Connecticut

Selected Community Action Agencies (check 2‑1‑1 for the one that serves your town):

• Community Renewal Team (CRT) – Greater Hartford: https://www.crtct.org/
• TEAM, Inc. – Lower Naugatuck Valley: https://www.teaminc.org/
• New Opportunities – Waterbury area: https://www.newopp.org/
• Community Action Agency of New Haven: https://caanh.net/
• Alliance for Community Empowerment (formerly ABCD) – Bridgeport: https://alliancect.org/
• Human Resources Agency of New Britain: https://www.hranbct.org/
• Thames Valley Council for Community Action (TVCCA) – New London: https://www.tvcca.org/
• Access Community Action Agency – Windham/Tolland: https://www.accessagency.org/
• Community Action Agency of Western CT (Danbury): https://caawc.org/

If you’re not sure which CAA covers your town, look it up on 2‑1‑1 Connecticut: https://www.211ct.org/

---

How to Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Watch application windows. Renters’ Rebate runs April 1–Oct 1. CEAP has seasonal deadlines. Put reminders on your calendar.
• Keep copies. Photocopy or scan everything you submit and save email confirmations.
• Report changes quickly. If your income changes, tell the program. Overpayments can become debts.
• Don’t skip court dates. If you get eviction papers, get legal help and go to court. Many cases settle with payment plans or move‑out dates you can manage.
• Protect yourself from scams. Application fees for public programs are red flags. Use official .gov or trusted nonprofit websites linked in this guide.

---

Real‑World Examples

• A 74‑year‑old renter in New London applied for Renters’ Rebate through her town’s assessor in May, received approval in late summer, and her rebate arrived in the fall. She also called TVCCA to apply for CEAP before winter and was approved for a deliverable fuel benefit.
• An 80‑year‑old homeowner in Torrington used the town’s CDBG housing rehab loan to replace a failing roof at 0% interest, repayable only when the home is sold. He also enrolled in the Property Tax Circuit Breaker to reduce his yearly bill.

Note: Each town and program has its own timelines. Your results may vary, but these steps are typical.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: My Social Security is my only income. Can I still get a rental voucher?
A: Yes, vouchers are based on income, and Social Security counts as income. You must still meet other eligibility and screening rules. See Section 8 and RAP links above.

Q: The Section 8 list is closed. What can I do now?
A: Apply to multiple senior/elderly housing properties, check for RAP openings, use CT Housing Search to find income‑restricted units, and call 2‑1‑1 for any short‑term rental help in your area.

Q: I’m 67 and behind on utilities. Where do I start?
A: Apply for CEAP through your local Community Action Agency and ask your utility about hardship and arrearage forgiveness programs. Links are in the Utility section.

Q: Are there grants for home repairs for seniors?
A: If you live in a rural town and meet income limits, USDA Section 504 offers grants for homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. Many towns also offer CDBG‑funded rehab loans or grants—ask your town hall.

Q: Does Medicaid pay for assisted living?
A: Medicaid does not pay room and board in assisted living, but some state programs may subsidize assisted living services for eligible residents in selected properties. Ask your AAA or MyPlaceCT about options.

Q: Is there a property tax break for seniors?
A: Yes. The Circuit Breaker Program provides a credit for eligible elderly/disabled homeowners. Apply through your town assessor’s office. See OPM’s tax relief page for details.

Q: I got an eviction notice. Is it too late to get help?
A: No. Call Statewide Legal Services (1‑800‑453‑3320) and check Eviction Help CT. Go to all court dates. Bring proof of rent paid, assistance applications, and any correspondence.

Q: I’m a veteran. Who can help with rent?
A: SSVF can help with rent, deposits, and case management for eligible veterans and families. Start here: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/ or call 1‑877‑4AID‑VET.

---

Resources (Official and Trusted)

• Connecticut Department of Housing (programs, news): https://portal.ct.gov/DOH
• Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS): https://portal.ct.gov/DSS
• MyPlaceCT (Aging and disability services hub): https://www.myplacect.org/
• Office of Policy & Management – Renters’ Rebate: https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/IGPP-ANF-Renters-Rebate-Program/Grants/FOR-RENTERS/RENTERS-REBATE-PROGRAM
• OPM – Property Tax Relief Programs: https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/IGPP-ANF-HP/Tax-Relief/Tax-Relief-Programs
• CHFA – Homeowner programs (including EMAP): https://www.chfa.org/
• CT Housing Search: https://www.cthousingsearch.org/
• HUD – Section 8 program: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
• HUD – CT housing authorities: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ct
• USDA – Home repair grants/loans (Section 504): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• CEAP (Heating Assistance): https://portal.ct.gov/DSS/Economic-Security/Heating-Assistance/CEAP-Program
• DEEP – Energy/Weatherization: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Energy
• EnergizeCT (utility programs): https://www.energizect.com/
• Operation Fuel: https://operationfuel.org/
• 2‑1‑1 Connecticut: https://www.211ct.org/
• Judicial Branch Housing Session: https://www.jud.ct.gov/housing/
• Statewide Legal Services: https://www.slsct.org/
• CTLawHelp housing guides: https://ctlawhelp.org/en/problems/housing/eviction
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center: https://www.ctfairhousing.org/
• CHRO (anti‑discrimination): https://portal.ct.gov/CHRO
• Eviction Help CT (Right to Counsel): https://www.evictionhelpct.org/
• Genworth Cost of Care: https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html
• VA SSVF (veterans’ housing help): https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Area Agencies on Aging directory: https://portal.ct.gov/ADS/General/Contact-the-AAAs/Area-Agencies-on-Aging-in-Connecticut

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, funding, and application windows can change. Always confirm details on the official program website or with the administering agency before applying. This guide is informational and is not legal or financial advice.

---

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: May 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.