Housing Assistance for Seniors in Mississippi

Last updated: January 21, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

• If you are in immediate danger or your home is unsafe (fire, carbon monoxide, gas leak), call 911.
• If you are at risk of homelessness tonight:
  • Call 2‑1‑1 or visit the 2‑1‑1 resource finder to get shelter and crisis housing in your county: Find Mississippi help on 211.org
  • Contact your local Continuum of Care for homeless services: Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH)
• Facing eviction? Do not ignore court papers. Get free legal help:
  • Mississippi Center for Legal Services (South MS)
  • North Mississippi Rural Legal Services
• Disaster damage (storms, floods, tornadoes):
  • Check for active FEMA disaster assistance: FEMA Individual Assistance
  • State updates: Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
  • If eligible, SBA can help homeowners with low‑interest disaster home repair loans: SBA Disaster Assistance
• In a mental health crisis or feeling hopeless: Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org

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Key Takeaways

• Mississippi seniors can get help with rent, home repairs, utilities, property taxes, and finding affordable senior housing through federal, state, and local programs.
• Start with the big programs: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, Public Housing, HUD Section 202 senior apartments, USDA rural housing, LIHEAP for energy bills, Weatherization, and Mississippi’s Homestead Exemption for homeowners 65+.
• Waitlists are common. Apply to multiple programs, keep paperwork ready, and watch for open application windows.
• For rural areas, USDA Section 504 home repair loans and grants are especially important for health and safety fixes.
• Always use official sites. Never pay anyone to apply for Section 8 or a housing program. Report scams to your local housing authority or HUD.

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What kind of help do you need?

• Help paying rent or finding an affordable apartment
• Home repairs or accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars, roofs, plumbing)
• Lower utility and energy bills
• Property tax relief
• Help to avoid eviction or foreclosure
• Care and services that help you remain safely at home

The sections below show how each program works in Mississippi, what it pays for, who qualifies, and where to apply.

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Table 1. Quick program snapshot for Mississippi seniors

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Help paying rent and finding affordable senior housing

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and Public Housing

• What it is: Monthly rent help (Housing Choice Voucher) or a unit with reduced rent (Public Housing). PHAs give elderly and disabled households preferences on many waiting lists.
• Who qualifies: Low income, with income limits based on county and household size.
• How to apply in Mississippi:
  • Find your local Housing Authority (city, county, or regional) and check if the waiting list is open: HUD PHA Contact Directory (choose Mississippi).
  • You can apply to more than one PHA to improve your chances.
• Income limits: Each year HUD sets limits by area. See: HUD Income Limits
• Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Watch for opening dates and sign up for notifications. Never pay a fee to apply—applications are free through PHAs.

Learn more: HUD Rental Assistance overview

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

• What it is: Apartments designed for older adults, often with on‑site service coordinators. Rents are typically 30% of your income.
• Who qualifies: Generally 62+ with low income; properties list their own criteria.
• How to find properties:
  • Use the HUD Resource Locator and choose “Multifamily properties” then filter for “Elderly.”
  • Learn about the program: HUD Section 202 Program
• Reality check: Properties may have waitlists. Ask about preferences (e.g., local residency, disability), and how to stay on the list.

USDA Rural Rental Housing (for small towns and rural areas)

• What it is: Affordable apartments in rural communities, some designated for seniors or people with disabilities. Many offer rental assistance tied to the unit.
• Who qualifies: Low and very‑low‑income renters; properties set their own criteria.
• How to search: USDA Rural Rental Property Search (filter by Mississippi and “Elderly” if available)
• State help: USDA Rural Development Mississippi

Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) apartments

• What it is: Privately owned affordable apartments with income‑based rent ceilings; some are age‑restricted for seniors.
• How to search in MS: Use Mississippi’s statewide search tool: MSHousingSearch.org (supported by MS Home Corporation)
• Tip: Call the property manager to confirm current vacancies, age restrictions, and accessibility features.

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Home repairs, accessibility, and weatherization

USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)

• What it is: Help for rural homeowners to fix health and safety hazards.
  • Loans: Up to $40,000 (low interest) for eligible very‑low‑income homeowners.
  • Grants: Up to $10,000 for homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards (lifetime grant limit).
• Key notes: If you sell or transfer the home within 3 years of receiving a grant, you may have to repay the grant.
• Apply: Start with your county’s USDA Rural Development office or apply through the Mississippi state office:
  • Program details: USDA 504 Home Repair
  • State office: USDA RD Mississippi
• Reality check: Funding is limited and not guaranteed. The program is only for rural areas; USDA’s site shows eligible addresses.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it is: Free energy‑saving improvements (insulation, sealing air leaks, HVAC tune‑ups) that lower bills and improve comfort and safety.
• Who qualifies: Low‑income households. Seniors and people with disabilities often receive priority.
• Apply in Mississippi: MDHS Weatherization Assistance Program (applications handled by local Community Action Agencies)
• Tip: Weatherization is different from LIHEAP. You can apply to both.

Local city/county home repair (CDBG/HOME‑funded)

• What it is: Some cities and counties use federal Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and HOME funds to repair owner‑occupied homes, prioritizing seniors and disabled residents for critical repairs (roofs, plumbing, electrical, accessibility).
• How to check: Visit your city or county’s “Housing,” “Community Development,” or “Neighborhood Services” page and search for “owner‑occupied rehabilitation” or “emergency repair.” You can also call your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to ask about local repair programs: MDHS Aging & Adult Services

Nonprofit home repair help

• Rebuilding Together: Free critical home repairs and accessibility modifications for qualifying homeowners through local affiliates. Find an affiliate: Rebuilding Together – Find Local
• Habitat for Humanity: Some affiliates offer repairs/critical home repair in addition to new homes. Find local affiliates: Habitat – Find Your Local Habitat
• Reality check: Nonprofits depend on donations and volunteers. Waitlists and limited service areas are common.

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Table 2. Home repair and modification options

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Help with utilities and energy bills

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

• What it is: Help with electric or gas bills (including crisis help).
• Who qualifies: Low‑income households. Priority may be given to seniors and those with medical needs.
• Apply: MDHS LIHEAP (handled by local Community Action Agencies)
• Tip: Have your photo ID, Social Security numbers for household members, proof of income, and your current utility bill ready.

Weatherization (again)

Weatherization reduces bills long‑term by improving your home’s efficiency and safety. Apply separately from LIHEAP: MDHS Weatherization

Check with your utility

Many utilities have hardship funds, payment plans, and medical necessity protections. Call the number on your bill and ask about “senior” or “low‑income” programs. If you have unresolved issues, contact the regulator: Mississippi Public Service Commission

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Table 3. Utility and energy programs

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Property tax relief for homeowners 65+

Mississippi Homestead Exemption (additional for 65+ or disabled)

• What it is: An additional homestead property tax exemption for homeowners who are age 65+ or totally disabled, which reduces (and for many seniors eliminates) property taxes on a portion of your home’s assessed value.
• How to apply: File with your county Tax Assessor between January 1 and April 1. Provide proof of age (or disability) and ownership/occupancy.
• Details and forms: Mississippi Department of Revenue – Homestead Exemption
• Reality check: This is a state program administered by your county. You usually file once for the additional exemption, then refile only if something changes (like moving or significant home changes). Contact your county assessor to confirm local procedures.

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Table 4. Property tax relief at a glance

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Eviction, foreclosure, and homelessness help

• Eviction defense and tenant rights:
  • South MS: Mississippi Center for Legal Services
  • North MS: North Mississippi Rural Legal Services
  • Fair housing discrimination: HUD – File a Fair Housing Complaint
• Homelessness services and rapid rehousing: Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH) and call 2‑1‑1.
• Mortgage help:
  • If you’re behind on payments, call your loan servicer immediately and request “loss mitigation” (repayment plan, deferral, modification).
  • HUD‑approved housing counseling (free): Find a HUD‑approved counselor
  • If disaster‑related, check FEMA Individual Assistance and SBA Disaster Home Loans
• Past mortgage relief (Homeowner Assistance Fund) was managed by Mississippi Home Corporation (MHC). Many states have closed HAF intake; check current status here: Mississippi Home Corporation

Reality check: Eviction and foreclosure timelines move quickly. Open mail, keep copies of notices, and get legal help early.

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Care at home and staying safely housed

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): Case managers can connect you to home‑delivered meals, homemaker services, minor home modifications, transportation, and caregiver support. Start here: MDHS – Aging & Adult Services
• Mississippi Access to Care (ADRCs): One‑stop help for seniors and people with disabilities to find services and benefits: Mississippi Access to Care Centers
• Medicaid Home and Community‑Based Services: Mississippi has waiver programs that can help eligible seniors get care at home. Learn more and ask about the Elderly & Disabled Waiver: Mississippi Division of Medicaid – Long‑Term Care
• Adult Protective Services: If you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, report it: MDHS Adult Protective Services

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How to apply well (and avoid common pitfalls)

• Apply to several programs at once. Waitlists are normal; casting a wide net helps.
• Keep a “ready file”: ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension), bank statements, lease or deed, utility bills, and any disability documentation.
• Check eligibility details before applying (age requirements, income limits, location rules).
• Use only official channels: .gov, .org, or the known agency’s .com (like MHC). If someone asks for a fee to apply for Section 8, it’s a scam.
• Re‑certify on time if you already receive assistance. Put deadlines on your calendar.
• If denied, ask for the reason and how to appeal. You often have that right.

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Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Fair housing protections apply regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination, file a complaint: HUD – Fair Housing
• Talk to a friendly advocate: SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (confidential support and referrals)

Veteran seniors

• HUD‑VASH (voucher + VA case management) for homeless or at‑risk veterans: VA HUD‑VASH
• Temporary rent help and case management (SSVF): VA SSVF
• Mississippi VA medical systems can connect you to housing services:
  • Jackson VAMC: G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery VA – Jackson
  • Gulf Coast VAMC (Biloxi): Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System
• Find a VA location near you: VA Facility Locator

Seniors with disabilities

• You may qualify for housing preferences and accessibility modifications. Ask PHAs about “elderly/disabled preferences.”
• For home modifications through Medicaid (if eligible), learn about waiver options: Mississippi Division of Medicaid – Long‑Term Care
• Accessibility and repairs: USDA Section 504 grants (62+) can fund ramps, grab bars, and hazard removal: USDA 504 Home Repair

Tribal seniors (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)

• Tribal members should also check tribal housing programs and the Tribal Housing Authority for rehabilitation and rental support. Start here: Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (ask for Housing)
• HUD Office of Native American Programs overview: HUD ONAP

Rural seniors and families

• USDA programs are designed for rural communities:
  • Repairs: USDA Section 504 Home Repair
  • Rentals: USDA Rural Rental Search
• If you live far from services, contact a Mississippi Access to Care Center for phone‑based help: Mississippi Access to Care

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Finding local help near you

• Public Housing Authorities (PHAs): Find and contact PHAs by city/county: HUD PHA Directory
• Affordable apartments (senior and non‑senior): HUD Resource Locator and MSHousingSearch.org
• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): MDHS – Aging & Adult Services
• Housing counseling (free): HUD‑approved housing counselors
• Legal aid:
  • Mississippi Center for Legal Services
  • North Mississippi Rural Legal Services
• Utility help:
  • MDHS LIHEAP
  • MDHS Weatherization
  • Regulator: Mississippi Public Service Commission
• State housing finance agency: Mississippi Home Corporation (MHC)
• State HUD page: HUD in Mississippi

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Table 5. Rent help and housing search tools

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Step‑by‑step: Applying for the big programs

1. Gather documents:
   • Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
   • Social Security cards or numbers
   • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension letter, recent bank statements)
   • Lease or deed, and current utility bills
   • Proof of disability or age (if applicable)
2. Choose your targets:
   • For rent help: at least 2–4 PHAs (Section 8/Public Housing), HUD Section 202 properties, and any USDA rural rentals near you.
   • For homeowners: USDA Section 504 (rural), Weatherization, local rehab programs, Homestead Exemption.
3. Apply:
   • Follow instructions on each official site. If you need help, call the office or ask a housing counselor: HUD Housing Counselors
4. Follow up:
   • Keep a list of confirmation numbers, dates, and contact names.
   • If you move or your phone number changes, notify every program so you don’t lose your spot.
5. Reapply or appeal if denied:
   • Ask for the reason in writing and the appeals process. Fix any missing documents and reapply where allowed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long are Section 8 waiting lists in Mississippi?
A: It varies by city and region and can be months to years. Many PHAs close their lists when they get too long. Check several PHAs and apply whenever a list opens: HUD PHA Directory.

Q: Are there special preferences for seniors?
A: Many PHAs give elderly (62+) and disabled households priority or “preferences.” Ask the PHA about its current admissions policy.

Q: I’m 65 and own my home. Can I get help with repairs?
A: Yes, especially if you live in a rural area (USDA Section 504 grants for 62+ can fix health/safety hazards). Also ask your city or county about owner‑occupied rehab programs and check Weatherization for energy‑saving upgrades.

• USDA Section 504 Repair
• MDHS Weatherization

Q: What about property tax relief?
A: Mississippi offers an additional Homestead Exemption for homeowners 65+ or totally disabled, which lowers your property taxes on part of your home’s assessed value. Apply with your county assessor Jan 1–Apr 1.

• MS Dept. of Revenue – Homestead Exemption

Q: Can non‑citizen seniors get federal housing help?
A: HUD programs require eligible immigration status for assistance. Some households with mixed status may receive prorated assistance. Details: HUD Eligibility Overview

Q: Does Weatherization replace my HVAC?
A: Weatherization focuses on cost‑effective health and safety and energy efficiency measures. It may repair or replace HVAC if it’s the most cost‑effective solution. Each home gets an energy audit to decide.

• MDHS Weatherization

Q: Where can I find senior‑only apartments?
A: Search HUD Section 202 and other elderly‑designated properties on the HUD Resource Locator. Also check MSHousingSearch.org and USDA rural rentals for elderly units.

Q: Are there grants to build a new home?
A: Federal programs generally do not give grants to individuals to build new homes. Homeowner grants mainly focus on repairing health and safety problems (e.g., USDA 504) or energy efficiency (Weatherization).

Q: I think my landlord is discriminating against me because I’m older or disabled. What can I do?
A: Document what happened and file a complaint with HUD’s Fair Housing office: File a Fair Housing Complaint. You can also get help from legal aid.

Q: Can I apply to multiple PHAs or properties at once?
A: Yes, and it’s recommended because waitlists are often long. Keep good records of applications and deadlines.

Q: Is the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) still open?
A: Many states closed HAF intake in 2023–2024. Check the Mississippi Home Corporation site for current status: MHC.

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Resources (official links)

• HUD in Mississippi: HUD Mississippi State Page
• Find a local PHA (Section 8/Public Housing): HUD PHA Directory
• HUD Section 202 info: HUD Section 202 Program
• HUD apartment/property search: HUD Resource Locator
• HUD income limits: HUD USER Income Limits
• USDA rural rental search: USDA Multifamily Rentals
• USDA home repair grants/loans (504): USDA 504 Repair Program
• USDA RD Mississippi: USDA RD Mississippi
• LIHEAP (energy bills): MDHS LIHEAP
• Weatherization: MDHS Weatherization Assistance Program
• AAAs and aging services: MDHS Aging & Adult Services
• Mississippi Access to Care (ADRCs): Mississippi Access to Care
• Homestead Exemption: MS Dept. of Revenue – Homestead Exemption
• Legal aid: Mississippi Center for Legal Services • North Mississippi Rural Legal Services
• Homelessness services: MUTEH • 2‑1‑1
• FEMA disasters: FEMA Individual Assistance
• SBA disasters: SBA Disaster Assistance
• VA HUD‑VASH: VA HUD‑VASH • SSVF: VA SSVF
• HUD housing counselors: Find a HUD‑approved counselor
• Fair housing complaint: HUD – File a Complaint
• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians: MBCI – Tribal Services
• Mississippi Home Corporation: MHC
• Mississippi Public Service Commission: MS PSC

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Beware of scams. No one can “sell” you a Section 8 voucher or guarantee placement for a fee. Only PHAs administer vouchers.
• Keep your contact info current with every program. If a PHA can’t reach you, you can lose your place on the list.
• Be honest on applications. Misreporting income or household members can cause denial or termination of benefits.
• Repairs take time. Government and nonprofit repair programs have inspections, bidding, and funding cycles. Ask about timelines so you can plan.
• Disaster help is time‑sensitive. Apply as soon as possible after a declared disaster and keep all receipts and photos of damage.

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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.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Program rules, funding, eligibility, and application periods can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program before applying.