Housing Assistance for Seniors in New Mexico
Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or facing a medical emergency.
- Facing eviction or homelessness now?
- Call the New Mexico Homelessness Hotline via the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness: 505-217-9570 (business hours) and visit the Coordinated Entry page at the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness website: https://www.nmceh.org
- Contact your local Continuum of Care or use the HUD Resource Locator to find shelters and services near you: https://resources.hud.gov
- At risk of utility shut-off?
- Call your utility immediately to ask about payment plans and hardship funds (see Utility Help section below).
- Apply for LIHEAP energy help through New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD): https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and the YesNM portal: https://www.yes.state.nm.us
- Need fast, local referrals anywhere in the state?
- Call 2‑1‑1 or visit 211 New Mexico: https://www.nm211.org
- Need guidance choosing the right program?
- Call the New Mexico Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC): 1‑800‑432‑2080; learn more at the Aging & Long-Term Services Department: https://www.nmaging.state.nm.us
Key Takeaways
- New Mexico seniors can combine federal, state, local, and nonprofit programs to lower housing costs, fix unsafe homes, and avoid eviction.
- Top programs include HUD Housing Choice Vouchers and senior housing, USDA 504 home repair grants (for 62+), weatherization through the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA), LIHEAP energy help, and property tax relief for eligible low-income seniors.
- Waitlists are common for rental vouchers and subsidized apartments. Apply to multiple housing authorities and senior properties, and keep your contact information updated.
- For rural seniors, USDA programs are especially important; for tribal members, work directly with your Tribal Housing Authority and federal tribal programs (BIA HIP and HUD ONAP).
- Program rules and funding change. Verify details with the official agency and ask your Area Agency on Aging/ADRC for help completing applications.
What This Guide Covers
- All major housing help for seniors in New Mexico: rent help, subsidized senior housing, home repairs and modifications, weatherization, utility assistance, property tax relief, legal help, and emergency resources.
- How to apply, who qualifies, reality checks, and tips to improve your chances.
- Special sections for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, disabled seniors, tribal members, and rural households.
- Links to official sources and regional contacts.
Quick Help by Situation
| Your situation | Where to start | Type of help | Official link |
|---|---|---|---|
| I need help paying rent | Local Public Housing Authority (Section 8 vouchers), subsidized senior housing | Ongoing rent subsidy | HUD PHA directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts and HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov |
| My home needs critical repairs and I’m 62+ | USDA Section 504 Repair Loans & Grants | Grants for health/safety issues (62+), low-interest loans | USDA 504 program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants |
| I can’t afford my energy bills | LIHEAP (HSD) and utility hardship funds | Bill credits, crisis help | LIHEAP (HSD): https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and YesNM: https://www.yes.state.nm.us |
| My home is drafty or unsafe to heat | MFA Energy$mart Weatherization | Free energy-saving repairs for eligible households | MFA (state weatherization): https://housingnm.org |
| I’m a homeowner 65+ on a fixed income | Property tax valuation freeze and senior rebates | Lower or stabilize property tax burden | NM Taxation & Revenue Department: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
| I’m at risk of homelessness | Coordinated Entry via NMCEH | Shelter, rapid rehousing, support | New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness: https://www.nmceh.org |
| I need legal help with eviction or housing rights | New Mexico Legal Aid; Senior Citizens Law Office | Free legal help for eligible seniors | NMLA: https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org and SCLO: https://www.sclonm.org |
How to Use This Guide
- Identify your main need (e.g., rent help, home repair, lower utilities).
- Check the matching programs below and note the basic eligibility.
- Gather documents: photo ID, proof of age and income, lease or deed, utility bills, and any disability or veteran documents.
- Apply online where possible, and follow up by phone. Add the ADRC (1‑800‑432‑2080) to your contacts for free guidance.
- If you’re denied or waitlisted, ask about alternatives and appeal rights.
New Mexico Housing Programs for Seniors: The Essentials
1) Affordable Rent: Vouchers and Senior Apartments
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Helps pay a portion of your rent in private apartments. Administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). Expect waitlists; apply to multiple PHAs.
- Find and contact PHAs in New Mexico using the HUD PHA Directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
- Reality check: Waitlists can be closed. When open, apply quickly and keep your mailing address, email, and phone current with the PHA.
- Public Housing (senior/elderly-designated buildings): Some PHAs manage apartments reserved for older adults and/or people with disabilities. Rents are usually 30% of income.
- Use the HUD Resource Locator to find subsidized properties near you: https://resources.hud.gov
- HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly: Nonprofit-run senior buildings with affordable rents and services like service coordination.
- Search through HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- Tip: Call property managers monthly to ask about openings and waitlist status.
- City and County Housing Authorities (examples):
- Albuquerque Housing Authority: https://www.abqha.org
- Santa Fe Civic Housing Authority: https://www.sfcha.org
- Housing Authority of the City of Las Cruces: https://www.hacolc.org
- For other areas, use the HUD PHA Directory above.
- Housing counseling: Get free help finding affordable housing and budgeting.
- HUD-approved counseling agency search: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hcc
2) Home Repairs and Accessibility Modifications
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair (62+ grants; loans for very-low-income homeowners)
- What it does: Grants up to 10,000forseniors62+tofixhealth/safetyhazards;loansupto10,000 for seniors 62+ to fix health/safety hazards; loans up to 40,000 at 1% interest for very-low-income homeowners. Rural addresses only.
- Where to apply: USDA Rural Development New Mexico State Office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm and the 504 program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- Reality check: Funds are limited each year. Applications must include proof of ownership, income, estimates, and evidence that you cannot afford credit elsewhere.
- Weatherization Assistance (Energy$mart) through the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA)
- What it does: Free energy upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and safety checks for income-eligible households; lowers bills and improves comfort.
- Where to start: MFA Weatherization and Homeowner resources: https://housingnm.org
- Federal program info: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
- Tip: Weatherization often pairs well with LIHEAP and local utility programs.
- Local Rehabilitation Programs
- Many cities/counties run home rehab or minor home repair programs funded by HUD’s HOME/CDBG dollars. Availability varies.
- Start with your city or county’s Housing/Community Development department (e.g., City of Albuquerque: https://www.cabq.gov/family; City of Santa Fe Housing: https://www.santafenm.gov/housing; City of Las Cruces: https://www.lascruces.gov).
- Also contact ADRC (1‑800‑432‑2080) to find active programs in your area.
- Reality check: Grants often prioritize urgent health/safety hazards and low-income seniors. Expect inspections and contractor bidding.
- Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for Home Modifications (for eligible seniors who meet medical criteria)
- New Mexico Medicaid (Centennial Care) may cover environmental modifications for members who qualify for certain waivers or the Community Benefit.
- Start here: New Mexico HSD Medicaid overview: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us/medicaid/ and Department of Health Mi Via Waiver (self-directed): https://www.nmhealth.org/about/ddsd/pgsv/mv/
- Tip: Speak with your Medicaid care coordinator or the ADRC for eligibility and coverage details.
3) Utility, Energy, and Water Bill Help
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- What it does: Helps pay heating/cooling bills and may offer crisis assistance.
- Apply via YesNM: https://www.yes.state.nm.us or learn more at HSD: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us
- Tip: Have your utility account number, ID, proof of income, and recent bill ready.
- Utility Hardship Programs (examples)
- Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) – payment plans and assistance: https://www.pnm.com
- New Mexico Gas Company – HEAT New Mexico: https://www.nmgco.com/en/heat-new-mexico
- Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority – Customer assistance: https://www.abcwua.org
- Reality check: Programs often require you to call before a shut-off date. Ask about budget billing and arrears forgiveness.
- Weatherization (see above) reduces long-term energy costs and improves safety.
4) Property Tax Relief for Seniors
- Property Tax Valuation Freeze (65+ or disabled; income limit applies)
- What it does: Freezes the taxable value of your primary residence if you meet income requirements, helping control future increases.
- Contact your County Assessor. Learn more from NM Taxation & Revenue Department (TRD): https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
- Reality check: Income limits adjust annually and you must apply (and sometimes re-certify). Bring proof of age, income, and residency.
- Senior Property Tax Rebates/Credits
- New Mexico offers certain income tax credits and rebates, including a property tax rebate for eligible low-income seniors. Details and forms change; see TRD’s Personal Income Tax credits/rebates resources: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
- Tip: Ask a VITA/TCE tax preparer or your AAA for help claiming credits.
Table: Major Programs at a Glance
| Program | Who it helps | What it covers | How to apply | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Very low-income renters, including seniors | Ongoing rent subsidy in private rentals | Apply at local PHA; expect waitlists | HUD PHA Directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts |
| HUD Section 202 Senior Housing | Low-income seniors | Affordable senior apartments + services | Apply directly to each property | HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov |
| USDA Section 504 | Very-low-income rural homeowners; grants for 62+ | Health/safety home repairs; 1% loans, grants up to $10,000 | Apply with USDA RD NM State Office | USDA 504: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants |
| Weatherization (MFA Energy$mart) | Income-eligible households | Free energy upgrades, safety fixes | Apply through local providers via MFA | MFA: https://housingnm.org |
| LIHEAP (HSD) | Low-income households | Heating/cooling bill help; crisis | Apply online via YesNM | HSD LIHEAP: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and https://www.yes.state.nm.us |
| Property Tax Valuation Freeze | 65+ or disabled; income limit | Freezes taxable value of home | Apply with County Assessor | NM TRD: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Waitlists are normal for vouchers and senior properties. Apply to multiple lists, keep copies of everything, and update your contact info if it changes.
- “Free repair” funds prioritize life/safety issues (roof leaks, electrical hazards, broken furnace). Cosmetic upgrades are rarely funded.
- Beware of upfront fees. Government and trusted nonprofits do not charge application fees for these programs. If someone asks for money to speed things up, it’s likely a scam. Confirm with the official agency site.
- If you are denied, ask for the reason in writing and about appeal rights or alternative programs.
- Keep a folder with IDs, Social Security cards, income statements, lease/deed, and utility bills. It will speed up applications.
Official New Mexico Contacts (Core)
| Agency | What they do | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) | Statewide information and help connecting to services | Phone: 1‑800‑432‑2080; ALTSD: https://www.nmaging.state.nm.us |
| NM Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) | State weatherization and some homeowner assistance programs | https://housingnm.org |
| NM Human Services Department (HSD) | LIHEAP, Medicaid, benefits | https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and YesNM portal: https://www.yes.state.nm.us |
| HUD Resource Locator | Find subsidized housing, HUD offices, and services | https://resources.hud.gov |
| USDA Rural Development NM | USDA 504 home repair; rural housing | https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm |
| NM Taxation & Revenue Department (TRD) | Property tax relief, credits/rebates | https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
| NM Coalition to End Homelessness | Coordinated Entry, homelessness resources | https://www.nmceh.org |
| New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) | Free civil legal help | https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org |
| Senior Citizens Law Office (SCLO) | Legal help for seniors (central NM) | https://www.sclonm.org |
Step-by-Step: Applying for Key Programs
Housing Vouchers and Senior Housing
- Use the HUD PHA Directory and HUD Resource Locator to list PHAs and senior properties near you: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts and https://resources.hud.gov
- Check if each waitlist is open. If open, apply immediately; if closed, ask how to get notified when it reopens.
- Gather documents: ID, Social Security number, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension), assets, and landlord contact.
- After applying, confirm your application was received and keep your log-in or confirmation number. Update PHAs anytime your contact info changes.
USDA 504 Home Repair (62+ grants; loans for very-low-income)
- Verify your address is in a USDA-eligible rural area (click “Eligibility” on the USDA 504 program page): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- Contact USDA RD NM State Office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm for local assistance.
- Prepare: proof of ownership and occupancy, income verification, cost estimates, and statements from lenders (if requested) showing you cannot afford credit elsewhere.
- Prioritize repairs that remove health/safety hazards (roof leaks, unsafe wiring, failing septic, broken heating).
LIHEAP Energy Help
- Create an account at YesNM: https://www.yes.state.nm.us
- Upload required documents: ID, Social Security number, proof of income, recent utility bill, and proof of residence.
- Ask your utility about any required forms for crisis situations and request a hold on disconnection while your LIHEAP is pending.
Program Details and Deep Dives
HUD Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
- What it is: A federal program that pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You pay the rest, typically around 30% of your adjusted income.
- Who qualifies: Very low-income households; U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens; background screening; local preferences may apply (e.g., elderly, disabled, homeless).
- Why it matters: It lets you choose housing that meets your needs (ground-floor, near doctors).
- Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HCV program info: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly
- What it is: Affordable apartments for older adults with supportive services on-site or coordinated through community partners.
- Who qualifies: Low-income seniors, often 62+. Each property sets its own rules.
- Why it matters: Designed for aging in place with service coordination.
- Source: HUD Section 202 overview: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202
USDA Section 504 Home Repair
- What it is: Loans (up to 40,000at140,000 at 1% for up to 20 years) and grants (up to 10,000 for 62+) for critical health/safety repairs in rural homes you own and occupy.
- Who qualifies: Very-low-income homeowners; grants require age 62+ and no ability to repay a loan.
- Why it matters: Helps fix hazards that endanger health and mobility.
- Source: USDA RD program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Weatherization (MFA Energy$mart)
- What it is: Free energy-saving repairs and safety checks for income-eligible households. May include insulation, sealing, HVAC tune-ups, and repairs to fix energy-related health/safety issues.
- Who qualifies: Income-eligible households (often tied to LIHEAP income thresholds).
- Why it matters: Lowers bills and improves comfort and safety.
- Sources: MFA: https://housingnm.org and U.S. DOE WAP: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
Property Tax Relief (TRD)
- Valuation freeze for 65+ or disabled homeowners with incomes under an annual limit; must be your primary residence.
- Low-income senior property tax rebate and other credits may be available when filing your NM income tax.
- Sources: New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov and your County Assessor.
Table: Property Tax Relief Options for Homeowners 65+
| Relief | What it does | Basic eligibility | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valuation Freeze | Freezes taxable value of your primary residence | Age 65+ or disabled; income under annual limit; NM resident homeowner | County Assessor; details at NM TRD: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
| Senior Property Tax Rebate/Credit | Refund/credit to offset property taxes for eligible low-income seniors | Age 65+; income limits; primary residence | Claim on NM income tax; see NM TRD: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
| Veteran Exemptions | Reduces property tax for qualifying veterans | NM resident veteran; specific criteria | County Assessor; NM TRD: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov |
Note: Income thresholds and forms change. Always confirm current criteria with your County Assessor or NM TRD.
Tenant Rights, Eviction, and Legal Help
- New Mexico landlord-tenant law is in the Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act. For practical help:
- New Mexico Courts Self-Help Center (evictions, forms, process): https://selfhelp.nmcourts.gov
- New Mexico Legal Aid (tenant defense, housing issues): https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org
- Senior Citizens Law Office (seniors in central NM): https://www.sclonm.org
- Fair Housing: Discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin is illegal under federal law. New Mexico’s Human Rights Act also protects sexual orientation and gender identity.
- File a complaint with the NM Human Rights Bureau: https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Workers/Human-Rights
- HUD Fair Housing: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp
- Reality check: If you get an eviction notice, act fast. Call legal aid immediately, keep all papers, and attend your court hearing.
Utilities and Weatherization: Keeping Costs Down
| Program | Utility area | What it offers | How to contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP (HSD) | Statewide | Energy bill help and crisis aid | https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and https://www.yes.state.nm.us |
| PNM Customer Assistance | PNM electric service areas | Payment plans, assistance funds, energy-saving programs | https://www.pnm.com |
| New Mexico Gas Company – HEAT NM | NM Gas service areas | Assistance for gas bills through charitable fund | https://www.nmgco.com/en/heat-new-mexico |
| ABCWUA Customer Assistance | Albuquerque/Bernalillo | Water/sewer bill help for eligible customers | https://www.abcwua.org |
| MFA Weatherization (Energy$mart) | Statewide | Free energy-efficiency upgrades | https://housingnm.org |
Tip: Ask your utility about medical certification protections if you have a serious health condition that depends on electricity (oxygen, dialysis, etc.).
If You Own a Home: Repairs, Modifications, and Foreclosure Help
- Safety-first repairs: Focus funding requests on roof leaks, heating, electrical, plumbing, and accessibility (ramps, grab bars).
- Accessibility: Medicaid HCBS waivers or VA programs (for qualifying veterans) may help with home modifications.
- Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF): New Mexico’s HAF program helped with mortgages and utilities during the pandemic. Most HAF programs closed or paused by 2024; check MFA for any updates: https://housingnm.org
- Foreclosure prevention: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor early to discuss options with your servicer: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hcc
- Reverse mortgage (HECM) counseling: Required for federally insured reverse mortgages; learn more via HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hecm/hecmhome
Reality check: Scammers target homeowners with fake “mortgage relief” or “grant” offers. Verify with MFA, HUD, USDA, or ADRC before sharing personal information.
Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Protections: New Mexico Human Rights Act prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. File with the Human Rights Bureau if you face discrimination: https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Workers/Human-Rights
- Support: Equality New Mexico offers community connections and resources: https://eqnm.org
- National help line: SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (24/7): https://www.sageusa.org/hotline/
Veteran Seniors
- HUD-VASH: Combines rental vouchers with VA case management for veterans experiencing homelessness. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
- SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Rapid rehousing and prevention. Find providers: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
- New Mexico VA Health Care (Albuquerque): https://www.va.gov/albuquerque-health-care/
- Property tax: Check county assessor for veteran exemptions: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
Disabled Seniors
- Accessible housing: Apply to PHAs and subsidized properties that offer accessible units; search via HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- Medicaid waivers: Environmental modifications may be covered if you qualify (Centennial Care Community Benefit; Mi Via): https://www.hsd.state.nm.us/medicaid/ and https://www.nmhealth.org/about/ddsd/pgsv/mv/
- Legal help: If you need a reasonable accommodation or ramp in a rental, contact legal aid for help enforcing your rights: https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org
Tribal Members and Families
- Work with your Tribal Housing Authority first; many administer housing and rehab resources with HUD’s Indian Housing Block Grant.
- HUD Office of Native American Programs (ONAP): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih
- Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program (HIP) for major repairs or replacement housing for eligible members with severe need: https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/housing-improvement-program
- Example: Navajo Housing Authority (serves Navajo Nation communities in NM and neighboring states): https://www.navajohousingauthority.org
- Tip: Some programs require proof of enrollment and residence on tribal land; check application requirements carefully.
Rural Seniors
- USDA programs (Section 504) are often the most helpful for rural homeowners: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- Transportation and contractor access can delay repairs. Ask your AAA/ADRC for help finding vetted contractors and mobile notary services if needed.
- If internet access is limited, apply by phone or in person; USDA RD and ADRC can mail forms.
Resources by Region (Selected)
| Region | Housing/Rent | City/County Programs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque/Bernalillo County | Albuquerque Housing Authority: https://www.abqha.org | City of Albuquerque Family & Community Services: https://www.cabq.gov/family | Senior legal help: SCLO: https://www.sclonm.org |
| Santa Fe | Santa Fe Civic Housing Authority: https://www.sfcha.org | City of Santa Fe Affordable Housing: https://www.santafenm.gov/housing | Check for local rehab and down payment assistance |
| Las Cruces/Doña Ana | Housing Authority of the City of Las Cruces: https://www.hacolc.org | City of Las Cruces – Housing & Community Resources: https://www.lascruces.gov | Apply to multiple programs due to demand |
| Farmington/San Juan | Use HUD PHA Directory to find local PHA: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts | City/County community development pages | Also check USDA RD NM for rural repairs |
| Tribal Communities | Tribal Housing Authority; HUD ONAP: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih | BIA HIP: https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/housing-improvement-program | Bring proof of enrollment and residency |
For other areas, use HUD’s Resource Locator to find subsidized properties and service providers: https://resources.hud.gov
Common Documents You’ll Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card or number
- Proof of age (Medicare card, driver’s license)
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, SSI, pay stubs)
- Lease or deed and recent rent/utility bills
- Property tax bill (homeowners)
- Proof of disability or veteran status (if applicable)
Tip: Keep paper copies in a folder and take photos with your phone for backups.
Table: Who to Call for What
| Need | Best first call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| General housing help and program navigation | ADRC: 1‑800‑432‑2080 | 2‑1‑1: https://www.nm211.org |
| Eviction or discrimination | NM Legal Aid: https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org | NM Human Rights Bureau: https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Workers/Human-Rights |
| Rent voucher status | Your local PHA | HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov |
| Home repair grants (rural) | USDA RD NM: https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm | ADRC |
| Weatherization | MFA: https://housingnm.org | Your local LIHEAP office (HSD) |
| Energy bill help | HSD LIHEAP: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us | Your utility company |
Realistic Scenarios (Examples)
- Rosa, age 74, homeowner in rural Doña Ana County. Roof leaks and unsafe wiring.
- Action: Applies for USDA 504 grant (62+, rural, very low income). USDA funds electrical hazards; weatherization program adds insulation and seals leaks. She also asks County Assessor about the valuation freeze to manage taxes.
- David, age 69, renter in Albuquerque living on Social Security.
- Action: Applies for Albuquerque Housing Authority voucher and several Section 202 senior buildings using HUD Resource Locator. LIHEAP helps with utility bills. He checks with NM Legal Aid about a needed reasonable accommodation for grab bars.
Note: These are examples; your eligibility and the specific help available may differ based on income, location, and program funding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are there still emergency rental assistance funds in New Mexico?
A: The large pandemic-era Emergency Rental Assistance Program ended or paused in most places by 2023–2024. Check the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) for any updates: https://housingnm.org and ask your city or county housing office about any local funds. Use 2‑1‑1 for current referrals: https://www.nm211.org
Q2: How long is the wait for a Section 8 voucher?
A: It varies by area and funding. Some lists can be closed for months. Apply to multiple PHAs and senior properties, and maintain updated contact information. Use the HUD PHA directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Q3: I’m 62+ and own my home. Can I get a grant for repairs?
A: Possibly. USDA Section 504 offers grants up to $10,000 for 62+ homeowners to fix health/safety hazards in rural areas. Very-low-income rules apply: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Q4: Does New Mexico help with property taxes for seniors?
A: Yes. There is a valuation freeze for 65+ or disabled homeowners with incomes under an annual limit, and certain senior credits/rebates through NM TRD. Contact your County Assessor and see: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
Q5: Where can I find senior-only affordable apartments?
A: Use the HUD Resource Locator to find Section 202 and other senior-designated properties: https://resources.hud.gov. Call each property to ask about waitlists and application steps.
Q6: Can Medicaid help pay for ramps or bathroom modifications?
A: If you qualify for certain Medicaid programs (e.g., Community Benefit, Mi Via), environmental modifications may be covered. Start with HSD Medicaid: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us/medicaid/ and Mi Via: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/ddsd/pgsv/mv/
Q7: I’m a veteran. What housing help can I get?
A: Ask about HUD-VASH rental vouchers (with VA case management) and SSVF (rapid rehousing and prevention). Contact the New Mexico VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/albuquerque-health-care/ and see SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
Q8: How do I report housing discrimination?
A: File with the NM Human Rights Bureau: https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Workers/Human-Rights and/or HUD Fair Housing: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp
Q9: I live on tribal land. Are there different programs?
A: Yes. Contact your Tribal Housing Authority first. Also see HUD ONAP: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/ih and BIA HIP: https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/housing-improvement-program
Q10: What if I don’t have internet or a computer?
A: Call ADRC at 1‑800‑432‑2080. Ask USDA RD, your PHA, or your city housing office to mail forms. Public libraries and senior centers can also help with online applications.
Table: Documents Checklist by Program
| Program | Must-have documents |
|---|---|
| Section 8/Public Housing | Photo ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income and assets, past landlord info, disability documentation if claiming preference |
| Section 202 Senior Housing | ID, proof of age, income verification, rental history; some properties may ask for medical needs info for services |
| USDA 504 | Proof of ownership/occupancy, income documentation, contractor estimates, rural eligibility, evidence of credit unavailability (for grants) |
| LIHEAP | ID, Social Security number, proof of income, recent utility bill, lease or proof of residence |
| Property Tax Relief | ID, proof of age or disability, proof of income, property tax bill, deed |
Data and Sources
- New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ADRC): https://www.nmaging.state.nm.us
- HUD Resource Locator (subsidized housing and services): https://resources.hud.gov
- HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
- HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202
- USDA Rural Development – New Mexico: https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- New Mexico HSD – LIHEAP and benefits: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and YesNM: https://www.yes.state.nm.us
- New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA): https://housingnm.org
- New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
- NM Coalition to End Homelessness: https://www.nmceh.org
- New Mexico Courts Self-Help Center: https://selfhelp.nmcourts.gov
- New Mexico Legal Aid: https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org
- Senior Citizens Law Office: https://www.sclonm.org
- VA HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
- VA SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
- NM Human Rights Bureau (housing discrimination): https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Workers/Human-Rights
- PNM: https://www.pnm.com
- New Mexico Gas Company – HEAT New Mexico: https://www.nmgco.com/en/heat-new-mexico
- Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority: https://www.abcwua.org
Note on statistics: For current population and senior share, see U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts for New Mexico: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/NM
Disclaimer
Program details, funding, eligibility, and application procedures can change. Always verify information with the relevant agency or official website before applying. This guide is for general information and is not legal or financial advice.
Resources
- New Mexico Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC): 1‑800‑432‑2080; https://www.nmaging.state.nm.us
- HUD Resource Locator (find affordable housing): https://resources.hud.gov
- HUD Housing counseling agency search: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hcc
- USDA RD New Mexico Office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/nm
- LIHEAP (HSD) + YesNM: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us and https://www.yes.state.nm.us
- New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness: https://www.nmceh.org
- New Mexico Legal Aid: https://www.newmexicolegalaid.org
- Senior Citizens Law Office: https://www.sclonm.org
- NM Taxation & Revenue Department (property tax relief): https://www.tax.newmexico.gov
- VA New Mexico Health Care: https://www.va.gov/albuquerque-health-care/
- 211 New Mexico: https://www.nm211.org
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.
