Housing Assistance for Seniors in North Carolina

Last updated: January 07, 2026

Key takeaways

• Start with 2-1-1 and your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to get county-specific housing help and referrals fast.
• For renters: look at Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), Section 202 senior housing, LIHTC senior apartments, and USDA rural rentals.
• For homeowners: North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) and USDA offer repair/rehab help; Weatherization can cut utility costs and fix health/safety issues.
• For care settings (assisted living/adult care home): North Carolina’s State-County Special Assistance may help pay room and board if you qualify.
• Don’t wait for a crisis: most programs have waitlists. Apply early, keep documents ready, and renew on time.
• Fair housing laws protect you from discrimination, including protections for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
• Verify details directly with the agency. Programs change.

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If you need emergency help

• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical help.
• Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if you are in emotional distress: 988lifeline.org
• Call 2-1-1 (or visit NC 211) for local shelters, rent/utility help, and housing resources statewide.
• Coordinated Entry for homelessness: Ask 2-1-1 for your local “CoC” access point or use HUD’s locator: Find homeless services (HUD Exchange)
• Adult Protective Services (abuse/neglect/exploitation): contact your county DSS via Adult Protective Services — NC DHHS
• Find subsidized senior buildings nearby: HUD Resource Locator

Quick emergency contacts

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What this guide covers

• Practical housing help for North Carolina seniors (renters, homeowners, those seeking care settings)
• How and where to apply, what to expect, and tips to avoid delays
• Specialized resources (LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, disabled seniors, tribal members, rural households)
• Legal help, fair housing, and property tax relief

This guide focuses on official programs and verified statewide resources. City/county programs change frequently—use NC 211 and your local AAA for current local help.

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How to use this guide

1. Pick the section that matches your situation (renter, homeowner, care setting).
2. Use the “Where to apply” links to go straight to the official program page.
3. Prepare documents: photo ID, Social Security number, proof of income (award letters, bank statements), lease or deed, utility bills, and any disability/veteran paperwork.
4. Expect waitlists. Apply to several options at once and keep copies of what you submit.
5. If you hit a roadblock, call your AAA: Find your Area Agency on Aging.

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North Carolina housing options at a glance

• Stay in your home (with repairs, accessibility, and utility help)
• Rent with a subsidy (voucher or project-based)
• Senior apartments with lower rents (LIHTC)
• Adult care homes/assisted living, memory care, nursing homes (with potential state/Medicaid help)
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (private pay; not covered by public programs)

Reality check: demand is high. Most programs have limited funds and waiting periods. Applying to multiple programs and keeping paperwork tidy speeds things up.

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Renting: affordable options for seniors

1) Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

• What it is: A rent subsidy you take to a private landlord. You pay around 30% of your income; the voucher covers the rest up to a limit.
• Who runs it: Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
• Where to apply: Check waitlist status and apply with PHAs in your region.
• Start here: Find NC Public Housing Authorities (HUD)

Tips:

• Waitlists open and close. Sign up for notifications.
• You can apply to multiple PHAs.
• Keep mailing and email addresses updated or you can lose your spot.

2) Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly (age 62+)

• What it is: Senior-only buildings with on-site supports. Rents are typically income-based.
• How to search:
  • HUD Multifamily Property Search
  • HUD Resource Locator
• Program info: About Section 202 (HUD)

Tip: Call properties directly to ask about age rules, services, and wait times.

3) Project-Based Section 8 (not age-restricted unless designated “elderly”)

• What it is: Subsidized apartments where the rent is tied to the unit, not a tenant voucher.
• How to search: Use the same HUD tools above and call properties to ask if they have elderly-designated units.

4) LIHTC Senior Apartments (Lower rents, not vouchers)

• What it is: Privately owned apartments built with tax credits. Many set aside units for seniors and have below-market rents.
• How to search: North Carolina’s free rental listing hub: NCHousingSearch.org
• Tip: Filter by “senior” or “age-restricted” and call to confirm income limits, amenities, and accessibility features.

5) USDA Rural Rental Housing (for rural towns)

• What it is: USDA-financed apartments, often with rental assistance.
• How to search: USDA Rural Rentals search
• Who it helps: Low-income renters in rural areas; some properties are elderly/disabled.

6) Specialized rental help

• Disability & extremely low income: The NC “Key Rental Assistance” pairs with designated units for people with disabilities who need supports. Learn about the Targeting/Key Program: Key Program (NCHFA)
• Older adults with HIV/AIDS: HOPWA may help with housing and support services (availability varies). See HOPWA program overview (HUD Exchange)

Table: Rental assistance options for seniors

Reality check:

• Most properties screen for rental history and may have waitlists.
• If a list is closed, ask when it may reopen and how to get notified.
• Keep copies of everything you submit; missing paperwork causes delays.

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Homeowners: repair, accessibility, weatherization, and costs

1) North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) repair programs

• Urgent Repair Program (URP): Grants via local partners to fix urgent health/safety issues (e.g., failing roofs, unsafe wiring, accessibility). Prioritizes older adults and people with disabilities. Where to apply: Urgent Repair Program (NCHFA)
• Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool (ESFRLP): Larger repairs and rehab through participating local governments/nonprofits. Often structured as deferred/forgivable loans with occupancy requirements. Where to apply: ESFRLP (NCHFA)

Tip: These programs are delivered locally. The NCHFA pages list participating organizations by county when funding is open.

2) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it does: Improves energy efficiency and addresses certain health and safety issues (insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune-up/replacement when necessary, minor repairs related to energy work).
• Who runs it: NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) State Energy Office with local providers.
• Where to apply: Weatherization Assistance Program — NC DEQ

3) USDA Section 504 Home Repair (for rural homeowners)

• What it is: Loans for very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize homes. Grants are available to homeowners age 62+ for health/safety repairs (grant limits apply).
• Where to apply: Contact your USDA Rural Development NC office. Program details: Section 504 Home Repair (USDA) • State office: USDA RD North Carolina

4) VA home modification and accessibility

• For eligible veterans:
  • Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) / Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants for serious service-connected disabilities: VA disability housing grants
  • HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations) for medically necessary changes prescribed by VA clinicians: VA HISA
  • VA Home Loans for purchase/refinance (often with no down payment): VA Home Loans

5) Nonprofit repair and accessibility help

• Habitat for Humanity affiliates: Many NC affiliates run “A Brush with Kindness” or Critical Home Repair programs for low-income homeowners (ramps, roofs, safety). Find your local affiliate: Find your local Habitat
• Rebuilding Together affiliates: Volunteer-led critical repairs and modifications for seniors and people with disabilities. Find an affiliate: Rebuilding Together — Find Local
• Community Action Agencies (CAAs): Some administer WAP and repair programs; check your local CAA: North Carolina Community Action Association

Table: Home repair & accessibility programs

Reality check:

• Funding cycles open and close; apply early each year.
• Many programs require you to be current on property taxes and carry homeowner’s insurance (ask your local provider if waivers exist).
• Occupancy and recapture rules may apply to rehab loans — ask for terms in writing.

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Help with utilities and home energy costs

• Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): One-time payment to help with heating costs during winter; priority often for older adults. Apply through your county DSS. Learn more: Energy Assistance — NC DHHS
• Crisis Intervention Program (CIP): Emergency help for heating/cooling crises year-round (e.g., disconnection notices). Apply via DSS: Energy Assistance — NC DHHS
• Weatherization Assistance Program: See above for free energy upgrades.

Tip: Bring your utility bill, proof of income, and Social Security number(s) to DSS. Ask about both LIEAP and CIP.

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Property tax relief for seniors (keep your home more affordable)

North Carolina offers three forms of property tax relief. Apply with your county assessor, usually by June 1 (check your county’s deadline).

• Elderly or Disabled Homestead Exclusion (NCGS 105‑277.1): Reduces taxable value for qualifying homeowners age 65+ or totally and permanently disabled with income under a set limit. Details: NC Department of Revenue — Property Tax Relief
• Property Tax “Circuit Breaker” Deferment (NCGS 105‑277.1B): Caps property tax at a percentage of income for eligible owners 65+ or disabled; the rest is deferred as a lien.
• Disabled Veteran Homestead Exclusion (NCGS 105‑277.1C): Excludes a portion of the home’s value from taxation for eligible disabled veterans or their surviving spouses.

Table: Property tax relief at a glance

Tip: Ask your county tax office about homestead discounts and application deadlines.

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Moving to care settings (assisted living, adult care homes, memory care, nursing homes)

• Adult Care Homes/Assisted Living: Non-medical residential settings that provide help with daily activities. North Carolina’s State-County Special Assistance (SA) program may help pay for room and board if you qualify. Learn more: NC State-County Special Assistance
• Special Assistance In-Home (SA/IH): For eligible individuals who can remain safely at home with supports. Ask DSS: Special Assistance info
• PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Coordinates medical and long-term services to keep eligible seniors in the community instead of nursing homes. Find programs: North Carolina PACE Association
• Nursing Homes: Compare quality ratings and services via Medicare’s Care Compare: Find and compare nursing homes (Medicare)
• Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports: If you need help paying for nursing home or in-home services, explore NC Medicaid options, including CAP/DA waiver: CAP/DA — NC Medicaid

Reality check:

• Medicaid and Special Assistance have strict income, asset, and medical-need rules. Get help from your county DSS, a hospital social worker, or your AAA.
• There may be waitlists for waivers and preferred facilities. Apply early and keep backups in mind.

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Fair housing, legal help, and your rights

• Fair housing: It’s illegal to discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), familial status, or disability. NC enforces fair housing laws too.
  • File a complaint or get help: NC Human Relations Commission
  • File with HUD: Submit a fair housing complaint
• Tenant rights and landlord-tenant issues:
  • Easy-to-read guide: NC DOJ Landlord-Tenant Rights
  • Legal Aid (evictions, repairs, subsidy problems): Legal Aid of North Carolina
  • Lawyer referrals (if you don’t qualify for Legal Aid): NC Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
• Housing counseling (renters & homeowners, including reverse mortgage counseling):
  • HUD-approved housing counselors: Find a HUD housing counselor

Tip: Keep a written log of communication with landlords and agencies. Save copies of notices, photos of problems, and proof you reported issues.

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Inclusive supports: specific groups

Veterans

• Emergency housing & prevention: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) funds community nonprofits that help with rent, deposits, and case management. Find a provider: SSVF Provider Locator
• VA disability housing grants and HISA: See VA disability housing grants and HISA
• VA medical centers (for care coordination and social work): contact the VA near you via VA Facility Locator

Disabled seniors

• Key Rental Assistance & Targeting Program (supports people with disabilities in designated units): Key Program (NCHFA)
• Medicaid CAP/DA waiver for in-home support: CAP/DA — NC Medicaid
• Assistive Technology & home mods advice/equipment reuse: NC Assistive Technology Program
• Independent Living Rehabilitation (may help with minor home modifications when related to independence goals): NC Independent Living

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Your housing rights are protected by federal fair housing law (sexual orientation and gender identity are covered under “sex” discrimination per HUD guidance).
• Help and support: SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: SAGE Hotline
• Local community connections: LGBT Center of Raleigh
• If you face discrimination, contact: NC Human Relations Commission or file with HUD: Fair housing complaint

Tribal members and Native seniors

• For members of federally recognized tribes, HUD’s Indian Housing programs (via your tribal housing department) may offer rehab, rental help, or elder housing.
  • Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (western NC): Contact tribal government for housing programs or assistance navigating HUD Indian Housing: HUD ONAP Eastern Woodlands
  • Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina (state-recognized): Housing and community programs for members: Lumbee Tribe — Housing
• Ask your tribal housing office about elder-specific repair or rental assistance and how to apply.

Rural seniors

• Check USDA programs first (Section 504 repairs, USDA rural rentals): USDA RD North Carolina • USDA rentals
• Use your local CAA and AAA for in-person help if internet access is limited: NC Community Action Association • Find your AAA
• Request paper applications or meet at libraries or senior centers to complete forms.

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How to apply (and avoid delays)

1. Gather documents
   • Photo ID; Social Security cards/numbers
   • Proof of income (Social Security award letters, pensions, pay stubs, bank statements)
   • Lease or proof of homeownership (deed, mortgage statement)
   • Utility bills (for energy help)
   • Medical or disability documentation (if relevant)
   • Military discharge (DD‑214) for VA programs
2. Apply to multiple programs
   • Mix statewide and local options (e.g., Section 8 + LIHTC apartments + Section 202 buildings).
3. Track everything
   • Keep a folder with copies. Write down confirmation numbers and the name/title of anyone you speak with.
4. Follow up
   • If you move or change phone numbers, update every waitlist.
5. Watch for scams
   • You should not pay to join a Section 8 waitlist. Use official links in this guide.

Table: Who to contact for common situations

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Resources by region (selected)

Use NC 211 and your AAA for the most current local programs. Below are a few established resources by area.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg and surrounding

• Coordinated entry and rent/utility help: Crisis Assistance Ministry
• PHA (vouchers/public housing): Charlotte Housing Authority (INLIVIAN) — check site for waitlist status
• Senior and disability services: Centralina AAA

Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill)

• Affordable housing search: NCHousingSearch.org
• Chapel Hill/Orange County shelter and housing services: Inter-Faith Council for Social Service
• AAAs: Triangle J AAA • Centralina AAA serves nearby counties

Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point)

• AAAs: Piedmont Triad Regional Council AAA
• Housing search: NCHousingSearch.org
• Legal: Legal Aid of North Carolina

Western NC / Asheville region

• Veteran services and housing: ABCCM (Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry)
• AAA: Land of Sky Regional Council AAA
• Tribal members (Cherokee): see HUD ONAP Eastern Woodlands

Coastal / Wilmington and eastern counties

• AAA: Cape Fear AAA
• NC Balance of State CoC (many eastern rural counties): NC Coalition to End Homelessness — BoS CoC
• USDA rural programs: USDA RD NC office

If your city/county isn’t listed: call 2‑1‑1 and your local AAA for tailored help.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I find senior apartments with lower rent near me?
A: Search NCHousingSearch.org and filter for age-restricted or senior units. Also look for Section 202 properties with the HUD Resource Locator and ask your local PHA about elderly-designated public housing.

Q: What income is counted for rent and repair programs?
A: Most programs count gross household income (Social Security, pensions, wages, some asset income). Income limits vary by county and household size. Check HUD’s tool for current limits: HUD Income Limits.

Q: I applied for Section 8 but never hear back. What now?
A: Many lists stay closed for months and move slowly. Confirm your application is active, verify your contact info, and ask how to update preferences (e.g., elderly/disabled, local residency). Apply to multiple PHAs and look for project-based and LIHTC units while you wait.

Q: Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living in NC?
A: North Carolina’s State-County Special Assistance (SA) helps pay room and board in licensed adult care homes for eligible people. It is separate from Medicaid but often used alongside Medicaid services. Ask your county DSS: Special Assistance.

Q: Are there grants to fix my home if I’m over 62?
A: Possibly. Start with NCHFA’s Urgent Repair Program and, if you’re in a rural area, USDA Section 504 grants for homeowners 62+ with very low income. See NCHFA URP and USDA 504 Repair.

Q: Where do I get help with a reverse mortgage (HECM) question?
A: Contact a HUD-approved counselor: Find a HECM/housing counselor. Never pay upfront fees to “fix” a reverse mortgage.

Q: My landlord won’t fix unsafe conditions. What can I do?
A: Document the problems, send a dated written request, and keep photos. Check your city’s housing code enforcement, and review the NC DOJ landlord-tenant guide: NC DOJ Landlord-Tenant Rights. Legal help: Legal Aid of NC.

Q: I’m a veteran facing homelessness. Who helps fastest?
A: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for SSVF. Or use the SSVF Provider Locator. You can also walk into a VA medical center and ask for Homeless Program staff.

Q: Where can I complain about housing discrimination?
A: File with the NC Human Relations Commission or HUD: NC HRC • HUD complaint.

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Additional program links (official)

• North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA): nchfa.com
• Apartment listings (state-supported): NCHousingSearch.org
• Area Agencies on Aging (directory): Find your AAA
• NC Medicaid long-term care info: NC Medicaid LTSS
• Energy help (LIEAP/CIP): NC DHHS Energy Assistance
• Weatherization: NC DEQ WAP
• HUD housing search tools: HUD Resource Locator • HUD Multifamily Search
• HUD PHA contacts: NC PHA list
• USDA Rural Development (NC office): USDA RD NC
• Legal help: Legal Aid of North Carolina
• Fair housing: NC Human Relations Commission • HUD complaint portal

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Quick reference tables

Table: Where to start by need

Table: Documents to prepare

Table: Common terms

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Disclaimer

Program details, funding, income limits, and application windows change. Always confirm with the official agency linked in this guide before you apply or make decisions. This guide is informational and not legal or financial 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: April 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.