Housing Assistance for Seniors in Kentucky

Last updated: August 20, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

If you are in danger or at risk of losing housing in the next 72 hours, act now. Use the contacts below.

Reality check: In many Kentucky communities, shelters and rent programs run at capacity. Call early in the day, ask to be placed on waitlists, and request “coordinated entry” or “prioritization” if you are a senior or medically vulnerable.

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Key Takeaways

• Kentucky seniors can reduce housing costs with federal, state, and local programs: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, HUD Section 202 senior housing, USDA rural repair grants (for 62+), Weatherization, LIHEAP energy help, and the Kentucky Homestead property tax exemption.
• Start with your local housing authority for vouchers and with Kentucky Housing Corporation’s rental search to locate affordable apartments.
• Rural seniors often qualify for special help from USDA: up to $10,000 in home repair grants for health and safety issues, plus 1% loans for larger repairs.
• Utility and energy programs (LIHEAP and Weatherization) lower monthly bills and make homes safer.
• Legal help is available if you’re facing eviction or housing discrimination.
• Expect waitlists and paperwork. Gather proof of income, ID, and housing situation before you apply.

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Who This Guide Is For

• Kentucky residents age 60+ seeking affordable rent, help with home repairs, or property tax relief.
• Caregivers helping a senior apply.
• Seniors in urban, suburban, and rural Kentucky, including veterans, LGBTQ+ older adults, and people with disabilities.

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What Counts as “Low Income” (and where to check)

Most housing programs use income limits that change by county each year.

• HUD income limits (for vouchers and senior housing) are based on Area Median Income (AMI). Check your county’s current limits here: HUD Income Limits (official tool).
• USDA’s rural repair program serves “very low income” homeowners (generally 50% of AMI). Confirm details here: USDA Section 504 Home Repair — Program page.
• For utility programs like LIHEAP, Kentucky follows federal/state guidelines that can change each season. See: HHS LIHEAP — Kentucky program information.

Tip: If you get SSI, SNAP, or Medicaid, mention it. It often speeds up income verification.

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Snapshot: Main Housing Programs for Kentucky Seniors

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How to Use This Guide

1. If you’re in a crisis, use the Emergency Help table first.
2. If you rent, start with Section 8 and HUD Section 202. If you own a home, look at USDA Section 504, Weatherization, and the Homestead Exemption.
3. Use the “Where to Apply” links and tips below to get on waitlists and complete applications.
4. Check the “Resources by Region” section for city-specific help.
5. If you hit barriers, contact legal aid or your Area Agency on Aging.

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Affordable Rental Options for Seniors

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)

• What it is: A federal rent voucher. You rent on the private market; the program pays part of your rent directly to the landlord. You typically pay about 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities.
• Who it’s for: Low-income renters (not limited to seniors), with preference sometimes given to elderly or disabled households depending on the housing authority’s local policies.
• How to apply: Apply through the housing authority that serves your county or city. Waitlists open and close. Some authorities run lotteries.

Where to find your housing authority:

• Use the official searchable directory: Find your local PHA in Kentucky (HUD) and select Kentucky or search by city/county.

Reality check:

• Waitlists can be long (months to years). Apply to more than one housing authority if allowed. Keep your contact information updated or you can lose your spot.

Public Housing

• What it is: Apartments or townhomes owned by local housing authorities. Rent is generally set at about 30% of your income.
• How to apply: Same process as vouchers—through your local housing authority. Use the HUD PHA Directory.

Tip: Some seniors prefer public housing “elderly-designated” buildings because they tend to be quieter and may have on-site services.

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

• What it is: Apartments reserved for very low-income seniors 62+, often with accessibility features and service coordination. Rents are typically about 30% of income.
• How to find properties:
  • Use the HUD Resource Locator and filter for “Elderly” housing.
  • You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 for help finding senior housing in your area (federal resource).

Reality check: Section 202 buildings can have waits. Get on multiple lists and ask about “preferences” (e.g., local residency, disability, homelessness).

Find Affordable Units Statewide

• Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) funds affordable housing and hosts a statewide listing site: Search affordable rentals on KYHousingSearch.org. Listings often include income-restricted apartments, senior communities, and units that accept vouchers.

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Staying in Your Home: Repairs, Accessibility, Energy Savings

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (for rural homeowners 62+)

• What it is: Help for seniors in rural areas to remove health and safety hazards. Grants up to $10,000areavailableforeligiblehomeownersage62+whocannotrepayaloan.Low-interestloans(1$40,000. If you sell the home within 3 years of receiving a grant, you must repay the grant amount.
• Who qualifies: Very low-income homeowners (generally ≤ 50% of AMI) living in a USDA-eligible rural area.
• What it covers: Repairs like roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating/cooling, and accessibility improvements (e.g., ramps).
• Where to apply: Contact your state Rural Development office: USDA Rural Development — Kentucky State Office. Program details: USDA Section 504 Home Repair.

Source: USDA Rural Development official program pages linked above.

Reality check: Funds are limited each fiscal year. Apply early and prepare to document income, ownership, and the specific health/safety issues in your home.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it is: Free energy-saving improvements that can lower utility bills and make your home safer. Typical measures include insulation, air sealing, HVAC safety checks, and minor repairs related to energy use. Seniors and people with disabilities are often prioritized.
• Where to apply: Through your local Community Action Agency. Start here: Weatherization in Kentucky (Community Action Kentucky).

Source: Community Action Kentucky (statewide WAP network).

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

• What it is: Help with heating and cooling bills. In Kentucky, LIHEAP usually offers “Subsidy” (seasonal) and “Crisis” (emergency) components.
• Where to apply: Local Community Action Agencies. Check Kentucky’s current LIHEAP information: HHS LIHEAP — Kentucky program page. Many local agencies also post LIHEAP schedules and documents.

Tip: Keep copies of your latest utility bill and a disconnect notice (if you have one); these are often required for Crisis LIHEAP.

Property Tax Relief: Kentucky Homestead Exemption

• What it is: A property tax exemption for homeowners who are 65+ or permanently disabled. It exempts a set dollar amount of your home’s assessed value. The exemption amount is updated every two years by the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
• Where to apply: Through your county Property Valuation Administrator (PVA). Learn more on the official page: Kentucky Department of Revenue — Homestead Exemption Program.

Source: Kentucky Department of Revenue.

Reality check: You must apply; it is not automatic when you turn 65. Bring valid ID and proof of age (and disability documentation if applying on disability basis).

Other Home Repair and Accessibility Options

• Local city/county programs sometimes use HUD HOME or CDBG funds to fix roofs, plumbing, and accessibility. Ask your city/county housing or community development office if they have an “Owner-Occupied Rehab” program.
• Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for home modification grants:
  • VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grants (official VA page).

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Utility and Communication Savings

• LIHEAP and Weatherization: See sections above.
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Lower-cost phone or broadband for low-income households. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped taking new applications in 2024 due to funding; Lifeline is still active. Learn more at the official site: FCC Lifeline Program.
• Ask your utility company about senior discounts, budget billing, or medical necessity programs. Policies vary by utility.

Source: Federal Communications Commission; utility policies vary — check your provider’s official website.

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Finding and Applying: Step-by-Step

1) Get your documents together

Tip: Keep digital photos or scans on your phone or a USB drive for easy re-use.

2) Apply to multiple programs

• Renters: Apply to your local housing authority for Section 8 and Public Housing (use the HUD PHA Directory). Also apply directly to Section 202 senior buildings you find on the HUD Resource Locator.
• Homeowners: Contact USDA Rural Development for Section 504, and your local Community Action Agency for Weatherization and LIHEAP.
• Everyone: Search affordable units on KYHousingSearch.org.

Reality check: Follow up every 30–60 days if you’re on a waitlist. Many programs purge inactive applications.

3) Avoid scams

• Application fees: Many public programs do not charge application fees. Be suspicious of anyone asking for cash to “guarantee” a voucher or grant.
• Never pay to get on a Section 8 waitlist. Learn common scams here: FTC — Rental Listing Scams.

4) Get free, unbiased advice

• Housing counseling (for renters and homeowners) is free from HUD-approved agencies: Find a HUD-approved housing counselor.
• Legal help for evictions and housing problems: See regional legal aid links below.

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Who Runs What in Kentucky

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Major Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) — How to Apply

Use HUD’s directory to reach the correct office for your city/county. Start with the larger PHAs if you live nearby.

Tip: Many PHAs allow you to create an online account to track applications. Keep your email and phone number current.

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Help If You’re Facing Eviction or Foreclosure

• Renters:
  • Get legal advice early. Free legal help may stop an eviction or help you negotiate more time. See regional legal aid links below.
  • Learn your rights and responsibilities. Kentucky landlord-tenant law is in the Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 383. For official statutes, start here: Kentucky Legislature Statutes.
• Homeowners:
  • Talk to your mortgage servicer at the first sign of trouble.
  • Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor: Find a HUD-approved housing counselor.
  • If a disaster caused the hardship, check DisasterAssistance.gov for potential help.

Reality check: Court deadlines are short. If you receive eviction or foreclosure papers, seek legal help immediately.

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Fair Housing and Discrimination

It is illegal to discriminate in housing because of factors such as race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), familial status, or disability. Seniors commonly face discrimination related to disability or source of income (e.g., vouchers in some markets).

• State enforcement: Kentucky Commission on Human Rights.
• Federal enforcement: HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

If you use a service animal or need a reasonable accommodation (e.g., grab bars, a parking spot near the entrance), you can request it from your landlord or property manager. Document requests in writing.

Source: HUD Fair Housing Act guidance.

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Inclusive Support: Specific Groups

Veterans

• If you are unhoused or at risk: Call 877-424-3838 (24/7) or visit VA Homeless Veterans Program.
• Programs you may access:
  • HUD-VASH: combines a housing voucher with VA case management. Ask your local VA medical center social work service or housing authority about availability.
  • SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): short-term help to prevent homelessness and quickly re-house veterans. Find providers via the VA page above.
  • SAH/SHA home modification grants for service-connected disabilities: VA Disability Housing Grants.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Priority: Many programs prioritize elderly and disabled applicants. Bring documentation (e.g., SSA disability award letter).
• Accessibility grants/mods: Check USDA Section 504 (rural), local city/county rehab programs, and VA grants if you are a veteran.
• Assistive technology and home modification resources: The Kentucky Assistive Technology program can connect you to devices and home mod resources. Start here at the state portal: Kentucky Assistive Technology (KATS) Network.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Fair housing: Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited under federal fair housing enforcement policy. Report issues to HUD FHEO or KCHR.
• Friendly support: SAGE offers national support and an elder hotline: SAGE — Services & Advocacy for LGBT Elders (Hotline: 877-360-5428). They can help locate affirming housing and services.

Native/Tribal Seniors

• Kentucky currently has no federally recognized tribes. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe living in Kentucky, you may be eligible for tribal housing programs through your tribe (e.g., Indian Housing Block Grant) or for HUD’s Section 184 loan guarantee.
• Learn more: HUD Office of Native American Programs — Eastern Woodlands and HUD Section 184 Program.

Rural Seniors

• You may have fewer local programs but better access to USDA help:
  • Repairs: USDA Section 504 Home Repair.
  • Affordable rentals in USDA properties (often with rent assistance): Search USDA Rural Rentals.
• Transportation to apply can be a barrier. Ask your Area Agency on Aging about transportation or home-visit assistance; find local contacts via the Eldercare Locator.

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Common Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to get a Section 8 voucher in Kentucky?
   Timelines vary widely by housing authority and demand. It can take months to years. Get on multiple waitlists if possible, keep your contact info updated, and respond quickly to any mail or email from the housing authority. Use the HUD PHA Directory to find more than one.
2. Can I use Section 8 at any apartment?
   You can use a voucher at apartments where the rent is reasonable for the area and the landlord agrees to participate; the unit must pass a housing quality inspection. Talk to the housing authority about payment standards in your area.
3. I own my home but need a new roof. Any grants?
   If you’re 62 or older and in a rural area with very low income, you could qualify for a USDA Section 504 grant (up to $10,000) for health/safety repairs. Start with the USDA RD Kentucky office.
4. How do I lower my energy bills?
   Apply for LIHEAP for bill help and Weatherization for long-term savings and safety checks. Start with your local Community Action Agency: Community Action Kentucky.
5. What is the Homestead Exemption and how do I get it?
   If you’re 65+ or permanently disabled and own your home, Kentucky’s Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your home by a set amount (updated every two years). Apply through your county PVA. Learn more: KY Dept. of Revenue — Homestead Exemption.
6. I’m being evicted. What should I do first?
   Don’t ignore court papers. Call legal aid right away (see regional links below). Ask your housing authority or Community Action Agency about emergency rent help and mediation. You can also call 211: Kentucky 211.
7. Are there senior-only apartments that don’t use vouchers?
   Yes. Some properties set aside units for seniors at below-market rents using other funding (e.g., tax credits). Search and filter for “senior/elderly” on KYHousingSearch.org and ask each property about age and income rules.
8. Is a reverse mortgage a good idea to pay for repairs?
   It can help some homeowners but can be risky and expensive. Get unbiased advice before signing. Read the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s guide: CFPB — What is a reverse mortgage?.
9. Can I get help if I don’t have internet or a printer?
   Yes. Call 211 to locate in-person help, or contact your Area Agency on Aging via the Eldercare Locator. Libraries and Community Action Agencies often help with online forms and copies.
10. Where can I check my local income limits?
    Use the official HUD tool and choose your county: HUD Income Limits. For USDA programs, ask the USDA RD Kentucky office.

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Resources by Region (Selected)

• Statewide
  • Affordable rental search: KYHousingSearch.org
  • Find your housing authority: HUD PHA Directory — Kentucky
  • LIHEAP & Weatherization gateways: Community Action Kentucky
  • Rural home repair: USDA RD Kentucky
  • Find senior services: Eldercare Locator
• Louisville/Jefferson County
  • Homeless services and coordinated entry: Coalition for the Homeless — Get Help
  • Housing Authority (use HUD directory): Find PHA contact
• Lexington-Fayette County
  • Homeless services and shelter info: Lexington Office of Homelessness Prevention & Intervention
  • Housing Authority (use HUD directory): Find PHA contact
• Northern Kentucky (Kenton/Campbell/Boone)
  • Homeless services (established nonprofit): Welcome House of Northern Kentucky
  • PHAs (Covington/Newport/Boone): Find PHA contact
• Western & South-Central Kentucky (Bowling Green, Owensboro, Paducah, etc.)
  • Check for city/county rehab programs (HOME/CDBG) via local government websites.
  • PHAs: Find PHA contact
• Eastern Kentucky (Appalachian counties)
  • Rural help (repairs and rentals): USDA RD Kentucky and USDA Rural Rentals search
  • Community Action offices: Community Action Kentucky — Find your local agency

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Legal Aid in Kentucky (Free for Eligible Seniors)

• Central/Northern/Eastern KY: Legal Aid of the Bluegrass
• Western & South-Central KY: Kentucky Legal Aid
• Eastern Appalachian KY: AppalReD Legal Aid
• Louisville/Jefferson Region: Legal Aid Society (Louisville)

These organizations help with evictions, housing conditions, benefits, and other civil legal issues.

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Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Be complete: Incomplete applications are the top reason for delays. Use the documents checklist table.
• Use simple explanations: If you have special needs (oxygen, mobility, caregiver), write a short note. This can help with “preferences” and reasonable accommodations.
• Ask for help: Housing authorities and Community Action staff can help fill out forms.
• Keep a folder: Save copies of everything you submit and note dates, names, and phone numbers of staff you speak with.
• Follow up: If you don’t hear back in 30–60 days, call to confirm your application status.

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Additional Program Details and Realities

• Section 202 Senior Housing: Often includes service coordinators who connect you to transportation, meals, or in-home supports. Rents are generally 30% of income. Waitlists are common; apply to several buildings. Source: HUD Section 202 program overview.
• Section 8 Vouchers: Payment standards (the max rent the voucher will cover) vary by area, and you may need to find a landlord willing to accept the voucher. Source: HUD PHA Directory.
• USDA 504 Grants/Loans: Grants are for seniors 62+ who cannot repay a loan and are limited to $10,000lifetimeperhomeowner;loansmaygoupto$40,000 at 1% interest with up to 20 years to repay. Source: USDA RD — Section 504.
• Weatherization & LIHEAP: Priority is often given to elderly, disabled, and households with high energy burden or unsafe systems. Source: Community Action Kentucky.
• Homestead Exemption: The exemption amount (dollar value) is set by Kentucky law and updated every two years. Check the current amount before applying. Source: KY Dept. of Revenue — Homestead Exemption.

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Table: Quick Program Comparison

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Table: Where to Start (Clickable)