Housing Assistance for Seniors in Minnesota

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If You Need Emergency Help

If you are at risk of homelessness or in danger of losing housing, act now:

  • Call 211 (United Way) or visit the Minnesota 211 website for emergency shelter, rent help, and warming/cooling locations near you: https://www.211unitedway.org
  • Call the Senior LinkAge Line for free, statewide help navigating housing and long-term care options: 800-333-2433 or https://www.seniorlinkageline.com
  • Apply for county Emergency Assistance/Emergency General Assistance online at MNbenefits (for urgent rent, deposit, or utilities): https://mnbenefits.mn.gov
  • If you have a HUD voucher or live in subsidized housing and received a termination/eviction notice, contact legal aid right away:
  • To find affordable or senior-specific housing vacancies fast:

If you feel unsafe at home or you are in a medical crisis, call 911.


Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota seniors can combine federal, state, and local programs to reduce housing costs: vouchers and subsidized senior buildings, property tax relief, energy assistance, and home repair grants/loans.
  • Start with your local Public Housing Agency for Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing, and use HousingLink and the HUD Resource Locator to find senior apartments with reduced rents.
  • State programs that often help: Housing Support (formerly Group Residential Housing), Emergency Assistance from counties via MNbenefits, the Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral, Energy Assistance, Weatherization, and homeowner rehabilitation loans.
  • Waitlists are common. Apply to more than one program, update your contact info often, and keep documents ready.
  • Free navigators are available: Senior LinkAge Line, Area Agencies on Aging, and legal aid can help you sort options, check eligibility, and appeal denials.

What This Guide Covers

  • Rent help, vouchers, and subsidized senior housing
  • Emergency and homelessness prevention resources
  • Property tax relief and homeowner supports
  • Utilities, energy/weatherization, and internet discounts
  • Home repair, accessibility, and safety modifications
  • Long-term care and service supports in housing
  • Inclusive resources for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, disabled seniors, tribal members, and rural communities
  • How to apply, what to expect, and where to get trusted help

This is a people-first guide with direct links to official Minnesota and federal sources. Program rules and budgets change; always verify using the links provided.


How Housing Help Works in Minnesota

  • Federal rental programs (like Section 8 vouchers and HUD 202 senior housing) are funded by HUD and administered locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and building owners. Find Minnesota PHAs on HUD’s official list: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn
  • Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (Minnesota Housing) funds rehab loans, homelessness prevention, and some rental assistance programs through local partners. Overview: https://www.mnhousing.gov
  • Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) supports room-and-board in licensed settings (Housing Support), Medicaid waivers for in-home/assisted living services, and county-run emergency aid: https://mn.gov/dhs
  • Area Agencies on Aging and the Senior LinkAge Line help you navigate choices and avoid scams: https://www.seniorlinkageline.com

Quick Guide to Common Programs and Where to Apply

Type of help Program Who it helps Where to apply/check
Lower rent Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Low-income renters; seniors prioritized as “elderly households” Contact your local PHA via HUD’s PHA directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn
Senior apartments with services HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Income-eligible people 62+ Learn program basics: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202, find units via HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
Public housing Senior/elderly-designated buildings Very low-income seniors Apply with local PHA (see “Major PHAs” table below)
Emergency rent/utilities County Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA) Very low-income households in a verified emergency Apply online at MNbenefits: https://mnbenefits.mn.gov
Room-and-board in licensed settings Housing Support (formerly GRH) Very low-income older adults in eligible settings Program info: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/housing/housing-support/
Property taxes Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral Homeowners age 65+ who qualify Program page and application: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/senior-citizens-property-tax-deferral
Energy bills Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Low/moderate-income households How to apply: https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/
Home weatherization Weatherization Assistance Program Income-eligible homeowners/renters Program info: https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/your-home/Weatherization/
Home repairs USDA Section 504 Home Repair (loans/grants for 62+) Low-income rural homeowners; grants for health/safety Program details: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants and Minnesota RD: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mn
Homeowner rehab Minnesota Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program Very low-income homeowners with health/safety needs Overview and lenders: https://www.mnhousing.gov

Who Qualifies for Most Programs?

  • Age: Many “elderly” programs use 62+; some property tax and care programs use 65+.
  • Income: Typically at or below HUD “very low income” for your county or LIHEAP/state income limits. Check current HUD income limits by county: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html
  • Residency: You must live in Minnesota for state programs and in a program’s service area for local aid.
  • Immigration status: Some federal housing programs require eligible immigration status; mixed-status families may still qualify for prorated assistance. Read HUD’s guidance and ask the administering agency for details.
  • Documentation: Expect to provide photo ID, Social Security number (if available), proof of income and assets, lease/mortgage statements, and utility bills.

Reality check: Waitlists are common, and documentation rules can be strict. Apply to multiple programs, keep copies of everything, and ask for help if forms are confusing.


Rent Help, Vouchers, and Senior Apartments

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

  • What it is: A federal voucher that caps your rent at about 30% of your adjusted income; the voucher pays the rest up to a local limit.
  • How it works: You apply with a local PHA. If approved and a voucher becomes available, you search for a unit that meets program standards.
  • Where to apply: Use the official HUD list to find your PHA(s) and open waitlists: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn
  • Tips:
    • Apply to several PHAs if possible (many allow out-of-area applicants).
    • If you have a disability or need an accommodation (e.g., more time to search), ask in writing.
    • If you face barriers with a landlord, fair housing help is available (see “Legal and Fair Housing” below).

Learn more about vouchers: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8

Project-Based Section 8 and HUD 202 Senior Housing

  • What it is: Affordable apartments where the subsidy is tied to the building. HUD 202 buildings are for seniors 62+ and may offer on-site service coordination.
  • How to find vacancies: Use HUD’s Resource Locator map (search “Elderly” and “Multifamily” properties): https://resources.hud.gov
  • How to apply: Contact each property’s management office and ask for their application and preference policies (some prefer local residents, veterans, or those who are homeless).

Program background (Section 202): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202

Public Housing for Seniors

Many PHAs operate “elderly/disabled” high-rises or mixed-age properties with elderly-designated floors. Rents are income-based.

Apply directly with the PHA. See the “Major Minnesota PHAs” table below.

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Response

Housing Support (formerly Group Residential Housing)

  • What it is: A state payment that helps cover room-and-board in licensed settings (e.g., board-and-lodge, some assisted living, adult foster care) for people with very low income. It can be paired with services funded through other programs.
  • Who it helps: Older adults and adults with disabilities who meet income/asset and program criteria.
  • Learn more: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/housing/housing-support/

Major Minnesota PHAs and Senior-Focused Options

Region/City Public Housing Agency Programs/Notes Apply/Info
Minneapolis Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) Public housing (senior high-rises), vouchers (as funding allows) https://mphaonline.org
Saint Paul Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Public housing (senior/disabled high-rises), vouchers https://www.stpha.org
Duluth Duluth Housing & Redevelopment Authority Public housing, vouchers https://www.duluthhousing.com
Rochester Rochester Housing & Redevelopment Authority Public housing, vouchers https://www.rochestermnhousing.org
St. Cloud St. Cloud HRA Public housing, vouchers https://www.stcloudhra.com
Bloomington Bloomington HRA Public housing, vouchers https://blm.mn/housing
Moorhead City of Moorhead Housing Authority Public housing, vouchers https://www.cityofmoorhead.com/departments/housing-and-neighborhood-services/housing-authority
Mankato Mankato EDA Housing Public housing, vouchers https://www.mankatomn.gov/government/affordable-housing

Full Minnesota PHA directory (HUD): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn

Reality check: Many PHAs open voucher lists for a short window. Sign up for email alerts where possible and check websites frequently.


Property Tax Relief and Homeowner Protections

Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral (Minnesota Department of Revenue)

  • Defers a portion of your property tax, letting you pay a smaller amount now and the state pays the rest as a lien, which is repaid later (typically when the home is sold).
  • Designed for homeowners age 65+ who meet income and equity criteria.
  • Program details and application: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/senior-citizens-property-tax-deferral

Property Tax Refunds (Homeowners and Renters)

Manufactured Home Park Closures

  • If your manufactured home park closes, you may qualify for financial help with relocation costs through Minnesota’s Manufactured Home Relocation Trust Fund.
  • Learn more at Minnesota Housing (search “Manufactured Home Park Relocation”): https://www.mnhousing.gov

Mortgage Trouble or Foreclosure


Energy, Utilities, and Weatherization

Energy Assistance Program (EAP)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Internet and Phone Discounts

  • Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for eligible households. It is separate from the now-suspended ACP.
  • How to apply (USAC): https://www.lifelinesupport.org

Tip: If you receive Energy Assistance or Medicaid, you may already meet Lifeline eligibility. Ask your provider.


Home Repair, Health, and Accessibility Modifications

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (for rural homeowners)

Minnesota Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program

  • Zero-interest, deferred loans for very low-income homeowners to address critical health, safety, or accessibility needs. Repayment is usually deferred until sale or refinance.
  • Apply through participating lenders and local partners listed at Minnesota Housing: https://www.mnhousing.gov

City/County Home Rehab Programs

Nonprofit Help for Safety and Accessibility

Reality check: Funding cycles open/close and often run out mid-year. Apply early and get on interest lists.


Long-Term Care and Home-Based Supports

Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care (AC) Program

  • Elderly Waiver (Medicaid): Pays for services to help seniors 65+ stay at home or in assisted living (e.g., personal care, homemaking, home-delivered meals, case management). It does not pay room-and-board in assisted living.
  • Alternative Care: Similar services for people age 65+ at risk of nursing home placement who are not eligible for Medical Assistance.
  • Learn more and start via your county or Senior LinkAge Line: https://www.seniorlinkageline.com and Minnesota DHS long-term services: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/older-adults/services/long-term-care/

Ombudsman and Facility Information

Reality check: Assisted living rents vary widely and are mostly private pay; waivers can help with services, not room and board. Ask about “Housing Support” if you’re very low income.


How to Find Affordable Senior Apartments in Minnesota

  • Use HousingLink to filter by “Subsidized” and “Senior/Elderly”: https://www.housinglink.org
  • Use HUD’s Resource Locator and select “Elderly” in property filters: https://resources.hud.gov
  • Check your local PHA for senior public housing buildings (see table above).
  • Ask nonprofit senior housing owners (e.g., faith-based or community developers) about waitlists and preferences.

Tip: Keep a “rental packet” ready—ID, proof of income, Social Security award letter, bank statements, references. Update every 6 months.


Legal Rights and Fair Housing

If a landlord refuses your voucher or treats you differently because of race, disability, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or public assistance status protected by state law, get help and document everything.


Documents Checklist: What to Gather Before You Apply

Category Examples
Identification State ID/driver’s license, tribal ID, passport
Income Social Security/SSI/SSDI award letters, pensions, pay stubs, bank statements
Housing Lease or mortgage, eviction/termination notices, utility bills, property tax statements
Health/Disability (if applicable) Physician letters, disability determination, reasonable accommodation requests
Assets Savings/retirement statements (some programs review assets)
Other Proof of veteran status (DD-214), immigration documents (if required), Power of Attorney letters

Tip: Keep digital copies (photos or PDFs) in a secure folder to speed up multiple applications.


Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources

Veteran Seniors

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Tip: If you face discrimination in housing or services, contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights: https://mn.gov/mdhr

Disabled Seniors

Tribal Members and Native Elders

Rural Seniors and Limited-Access Areas

  • USDA Rural Development can be a primary source of repair help and affordable home loans in small towns and rural counties: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mn
  • For renters with few local options, apply to multiple PHAs (some accept out-of-area applicants) and consider project-based properties in neighboring counties (use HousingLink and HUD Resource Locator).
  • Energy Assistance and Weatherization are available statewide through local providers.

Utilities, Renters’ Insurance, and Safety Tips

  • Ask your utility about budget billing, medical necessity forms (to prevent shutoff), and senior discounts.
  • Renters’ insurance is inexpensive and protects your belongings; sometimes required in subsidized housing.
  • Fall-prevention changes (grab bars, lighting, removing rugs) can be funded through rehab or waiver programs—ask your provider or AAA.

Application Steps (That Save Time)

  1. Call the Senior LinkAge Line (800-333-2433) and ask for a benefits/needs screening.
  2. Apply for county Emergency Assistance via MNbenefits if you have an urgent rent or utility issue: https://mnbenefits.mn.gov
  3. Apply to multiple PHAs (use the HUD PHA directory) and at least 5–10 project-based senior properties (use HUD Resource Locator). Keep a list of everywhere you applied.
  4. Submit an Energy Assistance application (even mid-season). It can unlock other protections: https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/
  5. If you own a home, check tax relief (refunds and senior deferral) with the Department of Revenue: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us
  6. For home repairs, start with USDA Section 504 (rural) and Minnesota Housing rehab loans.
  7. If your needs are complex (health, care, memory issues), ask about the Elderly Waiver or Alternative Care programs through your county or Senior LinkAge Line.

Common Roadblocks (and What to Do)

  • Long waitlists: Apply broadly; update your contact info every 90 days; ask if there are preferences you may qualify for (e.g., age, disability, homelessness, veteran).
  • Income over limits by a small amount: Ask about allowable medical expense deductions (HUD adjusts income) or different programs with higher limits (Energy Assistance vs. HUD).
  • Unit fails inspection: Ask the PHA if you can get more time, and ask the landlord for a repair plan.
  • Landlord won’t accept your voucher: Seek a different unit and contact fair housing agencies if you suspect discrimination.
  • Forms feel overwhelming: Call Senior LinkAge Line, your AAA, legal aid, or a trusted nonprofit for help filling them out.

Statewide Contacts You Can Trust

Agency/Service What they do Phone/Website
Senior LinkAge Line Free statewide navigation for seniors (housing, long-term care, benefits) 800-333-2433 • https://www.seniorlinkageline.com
Minnesota Housing Rehab loans, homelessness prevention programs, homeowner resources https://www.mnhousing.gov
MN DHS – Housing Support Room-and-board help in licensed settings https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/housing/housing-support/
Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) Help with heating/electric bills https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/
Weatherization Energy-saving home improvements https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/your-home/Weatherization/
HUD PHA Directory (MN) Find voucher/public housing offices https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn
HousingLink Affordable housing search https://www.housinglink.org
MN Dept. of Revenue Property tax refunds and senior tax deferral https://www.revenue.state.mn.us
HOME Line Tenant hotline and handbook 612-728-5767 • https://www.homelinemn.org
211 Emergency shelter and local help Dial 211 • https://www.211unitedway.org

Home Repair and Weatherization: Side-by-Side

Program Who it’s for What it covers Where to start
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Low-income rural homeowners; grants for 62+ Health/safety repairs, accessibility, critical systems https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Minnesota Housing Rehabilitation Loan Very low-income homeowners statewide Critical health, safety, energy, and accessibility repairs (deferred loans) https://www.mnhousing.gov
Weatherization Assistance Income-eligible homeowners/renters Insulation, air sealing, energy-related repairs, safety checks https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/your-home/Weatherization/
Local city/county rehab Varies by location Low/zero interest loans, small grants Check your city/county housing page or Senior LinkAge Line

Resources by Region

Twin Cities Metro (Minneapolis–Saint Paul and suburbs)

Northeast (Duluth/Iron Range)

Central (St. Cloud/Brainerd)

Southeast (Rochester/Winona)

Southwest/South Central (Mankato/Marshall)

Northwest/West Central (Moorhead/Bemidji)

If you’re unsure which region you’re in, call the Senior LinkAge Line (800-333-2433) for a warm handoff.


Area Agencies on Aging (Regional Partners)

Region Agency Website
Metro (Twin Cities) Trellis (formerly Metropolitan AAA) https://trellisconnects.org
Northeast Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging https://www.arrowheadaging.org
Northwest/West Central Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging https://www.dancingskyaaa.org
Central Central Minnesota Council on Aging https://www.cmcoa.org
Southeast Southeastern Minnesota Area Agency on Aging https://semaaa.org
Southwest/South Central Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging https://mnraaa.org
Statewide gateway Senior LinkAge Line https://www.seniorlinkageline.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I get a Section 8 voucher faster?
A: There’s no guaranteed fast path. Apply to multiple PHAs, ask about any preferences you might qualify for (e.g., elderly, disability, homelessness, veteran), and keep your contact info updated. Use HUD’s PHA directory to find more than one agency: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/mn

Q: What’s the difference between a voucher and project-based housing?
A: Vouchers travel with you to any unit that passes inspection and accepts the voucher. Project-based assistance is tied to a building; if you move out, the subsidy stays with the unit. Use HUD’s Resource Locator to find project-based properties: https://resources.hud.gov

Q: Can Medicaid pay my rent in assisted living?
A: No. Minnesota’s Elderly Waiver can pay for services (like personal care) but not room-and-board. Ask your county about Housing Support for room-and-board in certain licensed settings: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/housing/housing-support/

Q: I own a home but can’t afford property taxes. What can I do?
A: Look at the Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral and the Property Tax Refund programs. Both are run by the Minnesota Department of Revenue: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us

Q: Are there grants for home repairs for seniors?
A: In rural areas, the USDA Section 504 program can provide repair loans and, for homeowners 62+, grants to fix health/safety hazards. Learn more: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants. Minnesota Housing also offers rehab loans: https://www.mnhousing.gov

Q: How do I find senior apartments with services?
A: Search HUD Section 202 properties via HUD’s Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov and call the management office for waitlist details. Also check your local PHA’s senior public housing buildings.

Q: I got a shutoff notice. What now?
A: Apply for Energy Assistance right away: https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/. Call your utility to ask about medical or senior protections and payment plans. If needed, apply for Emergency Assistance through MNbenefits: https://mnbenefits.mn.gov

Q: I’m a veteran. Are there special housing vouchers?
A: Yes—HUD-VASH pairs rental vouchers with VA case management for eligible veterans experiencing homelessness. Contact the Minneapolis or St. Cloud VA: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/

Q: Can non-citizens get help?
A: Some programs restrict eligibility based on immigration status, while others (like Energy Assistance) may not. Mixed-status families can often receive prorated help. Ask the administering agency and review HUD program rules.

Q: How do I avoid scams?
A: Never pay for a housing application unless it’s a legitimate application fee clearly listed by a PHA or property. Beware of anyone promising “guaranteed vouchers.” Use official sites linked in this guide and call the Senior LinkAge Line or legal aid if uncertain.


Additional Tools and How-To Tables

Table: What to Do if You Receive an Eviction Notice

Step Action Where to get help
1 Read the notice carefully (deadline, reason) Tenant handbook: https://www.homelinemn.org
2 Call legal aid immediately https://www.mylegalaid.orghttps://www.smrls.org
3 Apply for Emergency Assistance (if rent owed) https://mnbenefits.mn.gov
4 Ask landlord for a payment plan in writing Keep copies of all communications
5 Go to your hearing if scheduled Court info and help via legal aid links above

Table: Key Application Portals and Search Tools


Resources


Disclaimer

Program availability, eligibility, and funding can change at any time. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is informational and not legal, financial, or tax 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: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 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.

About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.