Housing Assistance for Seniors in Maryland

Last updated: January 09, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

• If you are in danger, call 911.
• For immediate shelter, call 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Maryland to find emergency housing and local crisis services: https://211md.org/
• If you received an eviction notice, call Maryland Legal Aid as soon as possible: https://www.mdlab.org/ and review Maryland’s Access to Counsel in Evictions program: https://www.mlsc.org/acce/
• For emergency utility help (to stop a shutoff), contact the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP): https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs/
• If you are a veteran, call the VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 1-877-424-3838, or learn about HUD-VASH and SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/

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Key Takeaways

• Maryland seniors can get help with rent, subsidized apartments, home repairs, accessibility modifications, utility bills, and property taxes. Most programs are run by state agencies, local housing authorities, and nonprofits.
• For renters: start with Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), HUD-subsidized senior apartments (Section 202), local eviction prevention resources, and the Maryland Renters’ Tax Credit.
• For homeowners: look at the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit, Accessible Homes for Seniors, Weatherization Assistance, lead safety programs, and USDA home repair loans/grants for rural areas.
• Waitlists are common—apply to multiple programs and sign up for email alerts for voucher openings. Use Maryland’s housing search site to find current listings: https://www.mdhousingsearch.org/
• Don’t pay anyone to get onto a housing waitlist. Application help is free from HUD-approved counselors and Area Agencies on Aging.
• If you need long-term support to stay home, ask about Medicaid community programs (waivers), Community First Choice, and the Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidy—start via Maryland Access Point: https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx
• Always verify current eligibility and deadlines with the official program; details change.

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At‑a‑Glance: Where to Start

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How to Use This Guide

• We focus on programs seniors use most, with direct links to official sources.
• We include realities (like waitlists), tips, and “what to do next.”
• Where program names or benefits vary by county, we show you how to find the current local contact.

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For Renters: Programs and Steps

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) – Maryland

What it is: A federal program that helps pay rent in the private market. You pay a set portion based on income; the voucher pays the rest up to a limit.

• Learn about the program: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
• Find housing authorities in Maryland (apply to more than one): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/md

How it works in plain terms:

• You apply through your local Public Housing Agency (PHA). Many have online portals and email alerts for when waitlists open.
• Once you get a voucher, you find a unit that meets inspection and rent rules. Many landlords accept vouchers; some do not.
• You can request a “reasonable accommodation” if you need more time or a unit change because of a disability.

Reality check:

• Waitlists can be long and sometimes closed. Apply to multiple PHAs and set calendar reminders to check reopening dates.
• Never pay a fee to “get on a list.” List placement is free. Use HUD’s PHA directory to avoid scams.

Helpful tools:

• Search available listings with voucher filters at Maryland Housing Search: https://www.mdhousingsearch.org/

HUD-Subsidized Senior Apartments (Section 202) and Project‑Based Section 8

What it is: Apartments with rents set below market. Some buildings are for seniors only and may offer services.

• Find properties near you: HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov/
• Read about HUD Section 202: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202

Tips:

• Call the property directly to ask about age requirements (often 62+), current wait time, and how to apply.
• Ask if they keep an “interest list” even if the waitlist is closed.

Local Rental Help & Eviction Prevention

Maryland funds local providers through programs like the Homelessness Solutions Program. You do not apply to the state directly; you work with local agencies. Start here:

• DHCD Homelessness & Special Needs Housing: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/HomelessServices/
• 2-1-1 Maryland for current county eviction prevention sites: https://211md.org/

What to expect:

• Help may include one-time rent, back rent, security deposits, or rapid rehousing if you’re already homeless.
• You’ll need documentation (ID, lease, proof of income, eviction notice if applicable). Keep copies ready.

Maryland Renters’ Tax Credit (RTC)

What it is: A yearly state tax credit paid to eligible renters to help with housing costs.

• Program details and application: https://dat.maryland.gov/realproperty/Pages/Maryland-Renter%27s-Tax-Credit-Program.aspx

Who may qualify:

• Seniors 60+ (and certain others) with limited income and rent paid. Benefits depend on your income and rent.
• Apply each year; check the site for the current deadline and forms.

Utility Help while Renting

• Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (MEAP/EUSP and more): https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs/
• Weatherization (improves efficiency and safety; free for eligible households): see Weatherization below.

Note: OHEP provides grants, not loans. Apply early; if you receive a shutoff notice, contact OHEP or your utility right away and keep proof of your application.

Tenant Rights and Legal Help

• Maryland Courts Housing Self-Help: https://www.mdcourts.gov/legalhelp/housing
• Maryland Legal Aid (statewide): https://www.mdlab.org/
• Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland: https://probonomd.org/
• Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS): https://mvlslaw.org/
• Homeless Persons Representation Project (HPRP): https://www.hprplaw.org/
• Fair housing discrimination complaints (state): Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR): https://mccr.maryland.gov/
• Fair housing (federal): https://www.hud.gov/fairhousing

Tip: If you have a disability, you can request reasonable accommodations from your landlord (for example, a reserved accessible parking space or permission for a service animal). Keep requests in writing.

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For Homeowners: Keep, Repair, and Make Home Safer

Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit (HTC)

What it is: An annual credit that limits the property tax you must pay based on your income.

• Program page and application: https://dat.maryland.gov/realproperty/Pages/Homeowners%27-Property-Tax-Credit-Program.aspx

Tips:

• Seniors with fixed incomes often qualify. Apply every year. If taxes are escrowed, still apply—the credit reduces what you owe.

Local Senior Property Tax Credits (County Options)

Many counties offer additional credits for seniors (sometimes called “Aging-in-Place,” “Senior,” or “Long-Time Homeowner” credits).

• See state list of local tax credits and contact your county finance office: https://dat.maryland.gov/realproperty/Pages/Local-Property-Tax-Credits.aspx

Note: Each county sets its own rules. Some require many years in the same home; check deadlines.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

What it is: Free energy-efficiency services for eligible households (insulation, air sealing, health and safety fixes).

• Maryland program overview: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/ (look for “Weatherization Assistance”)
• You can also contact 2-1-1 to find your local weatherization provider.

Benefits:

• Lowers bills and can address hazards like poor ventilation. Seniors and medically vulnerable households are often prioritized.

Accessible Homes for Seniors (DHCD & Maryland Department of Aging)

What it is: Financing (often deferred loans/grants) to make your home safer and more accessible—ramps, stairlifts, grab bars, widened doors, accessible bathrooms.

• Program info hub (DHCD Residents page): https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/
• For guidance and screening, contact Maryland Access Point (MAP): https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx

How it helps:

• Lets you age in place by adapting your home to your needs.
• Terms vary by income and project—ask about grants vs. deferred loans.

Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Programs

What they are: State programs that fund critical repairs for health, safety, and code compliance. Seniors with low or moderate incomes may qualify for low-interest or deferred loans.

• Start at DHCD Residents Programs: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/

Common repairs:

• Roofs, plumbing, electrical, structural issues, and accessibility upgrades.

Tip: If you feel overwhelmed, ask a HUD-approved housing counselor to help you scope the work and plan the application: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor

Lead Hazard Reduction (especially pre-1978 homes)

• Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Lead Poisoning Prevention: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/Land/LeadPoisoningPrevention/Pages/index.aspx

Why it matters:

• Lead paint dust is dangerous, especially to grandchildren and visitors. Maryland has strict rules for rental properties; homeowners can also seek help for hazard reduction.

USDA Rural Home Repair (Section 504)

What it is: For rural homeowners. Offers loans (often at 1% interest) and, for eligible homeowners aged 62+, grants for essential health and safety repairs.

• Program overview: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Maryland USDA Rural Development: https://www.rd.usda.gov/md

Notes:

• Income and location rules apply (rural areas only). Check the USDA site for the current maximum grant amount and loan terms.

Energy Efficiency Financing (BeSMART)

Maryland’s DHCD offers energy-efficiency financing options that can reduce bills and improve comfort.

• Learn more from DHCD Residents Programs: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/

Reverse Mortgages (HECM)

What it is: A loan for homeowners 62+ to convert home equity into cash. No monthly payment is required, but fees, interest, and servicing costs add up. The loan is due when you sell, move, or pass away.

• HUD’s official HECM information (and required counseling): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hecm/hecmhome

Reality check:

• Reverse mortgages can help with repairs and care costs but may affect your ability to leave the home to heirs. Always complete HUD counseling, compare offers, and discuss with family or a trusted advisor.

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Staying at Home With Support (Care + Housing)

Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) in the Community

Maryland offers several Medicaid options that help seniors remain at home:

• Community Options Waiver and other LTSS programs provide in-home services and supports to delay or avoid nursing home care.
• Community First Choice (CFC) and Community Personal Assistance Services (CPAS) can help with personal care and household supports.

Start here for screening and help applying:

• Maryland Access Point (MAP): https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx

Reality check:

• Some programs have waitlists and documentation requirements. Apply early and keep copies of everything.

Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidy (SALGHS)

What it is: A Maryland Department of Aging program that helps eligible low-income seniors pay for small, licensed assisted living settings.

• Ask your local Area Agency on Aging about SALGHS and current availability: https://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/area-agency-on-aging.aspx

PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

What it is: Comprehensive medical and social services for eligible seniors—often including day health services and support to remain in the community.

• See if PACE is available in your area and whether you qualify: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly-pace

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Finding and Applying: Step-by-Step

1. Define your need
   • Rent help? Repairs? Accessibility? Property tax relief? In-home care?
2. Call the right front door
   • For rentals and eviction help: your local housing authority and 2-1-1 (https://211md.org/).
   • For home repair/accessibility: DHCD Residents Programs (https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/) and MAP (https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx).
   • For property taxes: SDAT credits (links above).
3. Gather documents
   • Photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, bank statements, lease or deed, utility bills, medical/disability documentation (if relevant).
4. Apply to multiple programs
   • Especially for vouchers and subsidized housing. Keep a list of where you applied and your confirmation numbers.
5. Follow up
   • Check status monthly. Ask about reasonable accommodations for disability or language assistance.
6. Watch for scams
   • No one can sell you a spot on a waitlist. Use official websites and HUD-approved counselors.

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Key Programs for Renters (Summary Table)

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Key Programs for Homeowners (Summary Table)

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Legal Help, Rights, and Consumer Protections (Table)

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Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

• Waitlists and timing
  • Many voucher lists are closed or open briefly. Sign up for notifications and check monthly.
• Documentation
  • Missing paperwork is a common reason for denial or delay. Keep a folder with copies of your ID, income proof, and lease/deed.
• Scams
  • Don’t pay to apply for Section 8 or to move up a waitlist. Use the HUD PHA directory and official emails.
• Landlord issues
  • Use your lease and state law; document problems in writing. For discrimination or retaliation, contact MCCR and a legal aid provider.
• Reverse mortgages
  • These are complex. HUD counseling is required for a reason—ask questions until you’re comfortable.

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Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Housing search can be stressful. You have the same fair housing protections against discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
  • HUD’s Equal Access protections: https://www.hud.gov/fairhousing
• Community support:
  • SAGE (national LGBTQ+ elder services): https://www.sageusa.org/ (housing resources and support)
• For local referrals and friendly providers, contact Maryland Access Point: https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx

Veteran Seniors

• HUD-VASH: Housing Choice Voucher plus VA case management for homeless veterans.
  • Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention.
  • Program info: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Aid and Attendance (VA pension add-on) can help pay for in-home care or assisted living.
  • Eligibility and how to apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (benefits and claims help): https://veterans.maryland.gov/

Seniors with Disabilities

• Request reasonable accommodations in housing (for example, grab bars, service animals) under fair housing laws.
  • State: https://mccr.maryland.gov/ and Federal: https://www.hud.gov/fairhousing
• Maryland Department of Disabilities (programs and Centers for Independent Living referrals): https://mdod.maryland.gov/
• Accessibility funding: See Accessible Homes for Seniors (above) and Weatherization for safety modifications.

Native/Tribal Seniors

• Maryland recognizes several tribes at the state level; federally funded tribal housing programs are tied to federally recognized tribes. For culturally specific referrals and support in Maryland:
  • Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs (MCIA): https://goci.maryland.gov/maryland-commission-on-indian-affairs/
• If you have ties to a federally recognized tribe elsewhere, contact your tribal housing authority or HUD’s Office of Native American Programs: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih

Rural Seniors and Families

• Rural repair help: USDA Section 504 loans/grants for essential repairs (see link above). Contact the Maryland USDA RD office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/md
• Transportation can be a barrier. Ask Maryland Access Point about local transit, paratransit, and mobile services in your county.
• For rental listings with rural filters, use Maryland Housing Search: https://www.mdhousingsearch.org/

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Resources by Region (How to Find Local Help Fast)

Statewide

• Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development (programs for renters and homeowners): https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/
• Maryland Access Point (Area Agencies on Aging directory and intake): https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx
• Maryland Housing Search (statewide listings): https://www.mdhousingsearch.org/
• HUD PHA Contacts (Maryland): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/md
• 2-1-1 Maryland (shelter, rental help, crisis lines): https://211md.org/
• OHEP (energy assistance): https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs/

Baltimore City and Surrounding Area

• Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC): https://www.habc.org/
• Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development (ground rent info and programs): https://dhcd.baltimorecity.gov/
• Baltimore County residents can find local services through 2-1-1 Maryland and the AAA via MAP: https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx

National Capital Region (Montgomery & Prince George’s)

• Use HUD’s PHA directory for Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County and Prince George’s County Housing Authority: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/md
• For county rental and eviction prevention programs, check 2-1-1 Maryland: https://211md.org/

Central Maryland (Anne Arundel, Howard, Frederick)

• Housing Commission of Anne Arundel County: https://www.hcaac.org/
• Howard County Housing Commission: https://www.howardhousing.org/
• For Frederick and others, use HUD’s PHA directory and 2-1-1 Maryland.

Western, Southern Maryland, and Eastern Shore

• For rural areas and small towns, start with:
  • HUD PHA contacts: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/md
  • USDA Rural Development (home repair loans/grants): https://www.rd.usda.gov/md
  • Maryland Access Point (local AAA): https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx
  • 2-1-1 Maryland: https://211md.org/

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Practical Examples

• Example 1: A 74-year-old renter with an eviction notice
  • Call 2-1-1 for a same-week appointment with a local eviction prevention provider.
  • Apply to the Renters’ Tax Credit if eligible (link above) to help stabilize yearly costs.
  • Sign up for PHA email alerts and apply to multiple voucher waitlists when open.
  • Contact Maryland Legal Aid for legal representation under ACCE (if eligible).
• Example 2: A 79-year-old homeowner with mobility issues in a 1955 house
  • Contact MAP to screen for Medicaid community services and the Accessible Homes for Seniors program.
  • Apply for the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit to lower the annual tax bill.
  • Request Weatherization to improve comfort and safety at no cost if income-eligible.
  • If in a rural county, check USDA Section 504 for additional repair funding.
• Example 3: An 82-year-old veteran couple
  • Call the VA for HUD-VASH/SSVF if at risk of homelessness.
  • Explore Aid and Attendance to help cover assisted living or in-home care.
  • Apply for the Renters’ Tax Credit or Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit, depending on housing status.

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Application Checklist (Print-Friendly)

• Personal: Photo ID, Social Security numbers
• Income: Social Security award letter, pension statement, pay stubs (if any), last year’s tax return (if filed)
• Housing: Lease or deed, landlord contact, past-due or eviction notices, utility bills
• Assets: Recent bank statements
• Health/Disability: Doctor’s note or disability documentation (if requesting accommodations or certain programs)
• Other: Proof of Maryland residency (mail with your name and address)

Make photocopies or scanned PDFs and keep a folder ready. Bring originals to appointments if asked.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to get a Housing Choice Voucher in Maryland?
A: It varies by county and funding. Waitlists can be months to years. Apply wherever you qualify, watch for openings, and use subsidized project-based properties and tax credits in the meantime. Find PHAs: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/md

Q: I’m 62+ and own my home, but my roof is leaking. Who can help?
A: Start with DHCD’s homeowner programs (https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/) and ask about rehabilitation loans or deferred options. If you live in a rural area, check USDA Section 504 home repair (https://www.rd.usda.gov/md). Also apply for the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit: https://dat.maryland.gov/realproperty/Pages/Homeowners%27-Property-Tax-Credit-Program.aspx

Q: Is the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) a loan?
A: No. MEAP and other OHEP programs provide grants to help pay energy bills. Apply here: https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs/

Q: Can I get help to install a ramp or stairlift?
A: Yes. Ask about Accessible Homes for Seniors via DHCD Residents Programs: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/ and contact Maryland Access Point for screening: https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx

Q: I have a disability and my landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation. What can I do?
A: Document your request in writing. If the landlord refuses, contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights: https://mccr.maryland.gov/ and consider legal help: https://www.mdlab.org/

Q: Does Maryland have a statewide Senior Rental Assistance Program (SRAP)?
A: Senior rent subsidies exist in some local jurisdictions, but availability and rules vary by county/city. Ask your local Area Agency on Aging (https://aging.maryland.gov/pages/marylandaccesspoint.aspx) and check your local housing authority.

Q: Where do I find senior-only affordable apartments?
A: Use HUD’s Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov/ and Maryland Housing Search: https://www.mdhousingsearch.org/. Call buildings to ask about age requirements and wait times.

Q: What if my home was built before 1978?
A: Consider a lead hazard evaluation—especially if young children visit. See Maryland’s lead program: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/Land/LeadPoisoningPrevention/Pages/index.aspx

Q: Are reverse mortgages safe?
A: They can be useful but have costs and risks. Counseling is required by HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hecm/hecmhome. Review with a trusted advisor.

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More Helpful Tools (Table)

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Disclaimer

Program names, eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and links can change. Always confirm details with the agency or program listed. This guide provides general information; it is not legal, financial, or tax advice.

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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.