Housing Assistance for Seniors in Vermont

Last updated: January 16, 2026

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If You Need Emergency Help

• If you are in immediate danger or unsafe, call 911.
• To find an open bed, emergency shelter, warming/cooling site, or local help, call Vermont 2-1-1 or visit the Vermont 2‑1‑1 website: Find local emergency and housing help (Vermont 2‑1‑1).
• For state-run emergency housing (motel/shelter) and urgent help with basic needs, contact the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) Economic Services Division: Emergency Housing (General Assistance) and Emergency/General Assistance overview.
• If you’re a veteran, call the VA Homeless Program for Vermont through White River Junction VA Medical Center: VA homeless services and HUD‑VASH and White River Junction VA Medical Center.
• To report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, contact Vermont Adult Protective Services (APS): Report to Adult Protective Services (DAIL).
• If you’re in emotional crisis, call or text 988 (suicide & crisis lifeline); veterans press 1.

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Key Takeaways

• Vermont has several strong statewide programs for seniors: rental subsidies (Section 8/Housing Choice Vouchers), subsidized senior apartments (HUD Section 202), emergency housing through DCF, property tax and renter credits, fuel/energy assistance, weatherization, and home repair/accessibility programs.
• Start with these reliable entry points: Vermont 2‑1‑1, your local Area Agency on Aging, and the Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA).
• Waitlists for affordable senior housing are common. Apply to multiple properties and programs at once, and update your contact information regularly.
• For homeowners age 62 and older with very low income, the USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grant can help fix health and safety issues: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504).
• Many energy and weatherization services are free for eligible seniors. Start with DCF Fuel Assistance and the Weatherization Program: Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and Weatherization Assistance.
• Vermont offers a Property Tax Credit for eligible homeowners and a Renter Credit for renters. Both are claimed through the Vermont Department of Taxes: Property Tax Credit and Renter Credit (formerly Renter Rebate).
• If you’re facing eviction or discrimination, contact Vermont Legal Aid and Vermont Tenants at CVOEO.

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Why this guide matters now

About one in five Vermonters is age 65 or older, and Vermont is one of the most rural states in the nation. That combination can make housing options harder to find and keep affordable on a fixed income. This guide pulls together the strongest, verified resources in one place, with direct links to the agencies that run them. Sources include the State of Vermont (DCF, DAIL, DHCD), HUD, USDA, VSHA, VHFA, and leading nonprofits.

For statewide demographic context, see: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Vermont.

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How to Use This Guide

• If you rent, start at “Help with Rent and Apartments.”
• If you own your home, start at “Home Repairs and Accessibility.”
• If you’re in crisis, use the Emergency section above and the Legal Help section below.
• If you’re not sure, call your local Area Agency on Aging for a benefits screening: Find your Area Agency on Aging.

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Who Counts as a “Senior”?

It depends on the program:

• HUD senior housing (Section 202): 62 or older.
• USDA repair grants: 62 or older.
• Area Agencies on Aging and many services: typically 60 or older.
• Medicaid Choices for Care: based on care needs and income/resources, usually 65+ or adults with disabilities.

Always check the specific program page linked in this guide.

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Table 1 — Quick Vermont Housing Help Overview

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Help with Rent and Affordable Senior Apartments

1) Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) – VSHA & Local PHAs

• What it is: A federal rent subsidy. You rent from a private landlord; the voucher pays part of your rent.
• Who runs it: The Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA) administers vouchers statewide, along with some local public housing authorities (PHAs).
• How to apply: Check VSHA for whether the waiting list is open and how to apply. If closed, ask about preferences and alternative programs. You can also check the HUD contact list for all Vermont PHAs: Find Vermont public housing authorities (HUD).
• Reality check: Waitlists can be long. Apply to several PHAs if possible. Keep your address and phone up to date so you don’t miss openings.

2) Subsidized Senior Apartments (HUD Section 202 and others)

• What it is: Apartment communities for seniors where rent is income-based. Some offer onsite support services.
• How to find them:
  • Use the HUD Resource Locator and filter for elderly properties.
  • Check Cathedral Square for affordable senior communities and the statewide SASH program.
  • Explore the Vermont Housing Finance Agency’s renter resources: Find affordable rentals (VHFA).
• Reality check: Many buildings have waitlists. Put in multiple applications and ask each property what documents they need.

3) Project-Based Voucher and Public Housing

• Some units come with a “project-based” subsidy tied to the apartment, not the person. Ask local PHAs about elderly/disabled developments. Start here: HUD contact list for Vermont PHAs.

4) Eviction Prevention, Back Rent, and Homelessness Help

• State emergency housing is managed by DCF: Emergency Housing (General Assistance).
• For prevention help (back rent, security deposits) and shelter access, call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask about “Coordinated Entry,” or see: Coordinated Entry in Vermont (Vermont Coalition to End Homelessness).
• Your local Community Action Agency can often help with arrears or connect you to funds: Find Community Action Agencies (DCF Office of Economic Opportunity).

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Property Tax and Rent Credits (Vermont Department of Taxes)

• Property Tax Credit (homeowners): Helps low- and moderate-income homeowners reduce their property tax bill. Learn more: Vermont Property Tax Credit.
• Renter Credit (renters): Formerly called the Renter Rebate, this provides a credit based on qualifying rent paid. Learn more: Vermont Renter Credit.
• Landlord Certificate: Vermont landlords must provide a Landlord Certificate each year. Renters use it to claim the Renter Credit. Details: Landlord Certificate information.
• Tip: Ask your Area Agency on Aging or a free tax prep program (e.g., VITA/TCE) for help filing these credits.

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Utilities, Heat, and Energy Savings

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) & Crisis Fuel

• Fuel Assistance helps pay part of your seasonal heating costs; Crisis Fuel helps during emergencies like imminent loss of heat. Apply and learn eligibility here: Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and Crisis Fuel Assistance.

Energy Assistance for Utility Bills

• Vermont partners with utilities to offer monthly discounts for eligible low-income customers (GMP and VGS). See: Energy Assistance Programs (DCF).

Weatherization Assistance (Free Energy Upgrades)

• Free services like air sealing, insulation, and safety checks. Priority often goes to seniors and households with high energy burdens. Details: Weatherization Assistance Program (OEO/DCf).
• Efficiency Vermont offers rebates and advice for saving energy at home: Efficiency Vermont.

Phone & Internet Discount

• Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible households. Learn more: FCC Lifeline Program.
• For state consumer resources and utility assistance info, see the Vermont Department of Public Service.

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Table 2 — Rent Help & Affordable Housing Options for Seniors

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Home Repairs, Health & Safety, and Accessibility

USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants

• What it is: Grants (for 62+) and loans to remove health and safety hazards (e.g., failing septic, unsafe wiring, roof leaks). Rural areas only (most of Vermont qualifies).
• Where to apply: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants. For state contacts: USDA Rural Development Vermont/New Hampshire Office.
• Reality check: Funding is limited each year and runs out quickly. Apply early and have proof of income, ownership, and repair bids ready.

Vermont Home Repair Programs (Nonprofits & State Partners)

• Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) supports home repair programs delivered by local housing trusts and nonprofits. Start at: VHCB – Programs, and contact your regional housing group, such as:
  • Champlain Housing Trust – Home Repair
  • Windham & Windsor Housing Trust – Home Repair
  • HEAT Squad (energy audits & financing)
• Tip: Ask these groups about low-interest repair loans, grants for low-income seniors, and help coordinating contractors.

Accessibility: Ramps, Bathrooms, and Entryways

• Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) Home Access Program helps pay for ramps and bathroom modifications to keep people at home: VCIL Home Access Program.
• Assistive Technology lending, demonstrations, and device reuse are available through the Vermont Assistive Technology Program.

Mobile and Manufactured Homes

• Vermont’s Mobile Home Park Program provides information on resident rights and park issues: Mobile Home Park Program (DHCD).
• For homeowner support, repairs, and disaster recovery in parks, contact the Mobile Home Program at CVOEO.
• Check ACCD Housing for updates on any manufactured home improvement/replacement initiatives: Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development.

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Table 3 — Home Repair & Accessibility Programs (Seniors in Vermont)

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Long-Term Care, Assisted Living, and Staying at Home

Choices for Care (Medicaid Long-Term Services & Supports)

• What it is: Vermont’s Medicaid program that pays for long-term care in nursing homes, residential care homes, assisted living, or at home (with supports).
• Who it’s for: Seniors and adults with disabilities who meet financial and clinical criteria.
• Learn more and apply: Choices for Care (DAIL).
• Tip: Call your Area Agency on Aging for help with the application and care planning: Find your AAA.

SASH – Support And Services at Home

• SASH provides care coordination and wellness support in many affordable housing sites and in some communities across Vermont. It helps residents stay safely at home. Learn more: SASH Vermont.

Residential Care, Assisted Living, and Nursing Facilities

• For licensing, standards, and facility lists, visit Vermont’s Division of Licensing and Protection: Residential Care & Assisted Living (DLP).
• Reality check: Assisted living costs can be high. If funds are limited, ask about Medicaid Choices for Care, subsidized senior apartments, and home-based supports before moving.

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Alternative Options: Home Sharing and Downsizing

• HomeShare Vermont carefully screens and matches homeowners with people seeking housing. Matches may include help with chores, cooking, or transportation in exchange for reduced rent. Details: HomeShare Vermont.
• Downsizing to a smaller apartment or moving to a subsidized senior building can lower costs and maintenance. Use VHFA renter resources and the HUD Resource Locator.

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Know Your Rights: Legal Help and Fair Housing

• Eviction, repairs, or subsidy problems: Contact Vermont Legal Aid.
• Tenants’ rights education and help with habitability issues: Vermont Tenants at CVOEO.
• Discrimination in housing (age, disability, race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more): File a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission or learn about federal protections at HUD Fair Housing.
• Vermont renters’ law is found in state statute (landlord/tenant). If you get a notice from a landlord or court, seek legal advice quickly.

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Table 4 — Utility & Energy Help at a Glance

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Inclusive Supports

Veteran Seniors

• Housing vouchers with case management: HUD‑VASH. Ask VSHA or your local PHA about HUD‑VASH availability.
• Short-term eviction prevention and rapid rehousing: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF). Use the VA’s site to locate Vermont SSVF providers.
• Care and housing navigation: White River Junction VA Medical Center.
• State support: Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Community support, referrals, and programs for older LGBTQ+ adults: Pride Center of Vermont – Aging With Pride.
• National helpline for LGBTQ+ older adults: SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline.

Disabled Seniors

• Accessibility modifications and independent living services: Vermont Center for Independent Living – Home Access Program.
• Long-term supports at home or in facilities (Medicaid): Choices for Care (DAIL).
• Assistive technology: Vermont Assistive Technology Program.
• HUD Section 811 (for people with disabilities): Ask local PHAs or use the HUD Resource Locator.

Tribal Members and Native Elders

• Vermont recognizes Abenaki tribes at the state level; federally funded tribal housing programs (NAHASDA) are tied to federally recognized tribes. Native elders in Vermont can still use all state and federal programs in this guide.
• If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, ask your tribe’s housing office about elder housing or repair help. Find contacts here: BIA Tribal Leaders Directory and HUD Office of Native American Programs.
• For state Native American affairs: Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.

Rural Seniors

• Most rural Vermont addresses qualify for USDA home repair and homeownership programs. Start at: USDA Rural Development VT/NH.
• Transportation and broadband can affect housing choices. Ask your Area Agency on Aging about rides and local options, and check the Vermont Department of Public Service for internet affordability resources.

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How to Apply and Improve Your Odds

1. Get documents together

• Proof of age and identity (ID), Social Security card
• Proof of income (Social Security, pension, SNAP, etc.)
• Recent bank statements (some programs ask)
• Lease or deed, and proof of Vermont residency
• Utility bills (for energy programs)
• For repairs: photos, contractor estimates, and proof of homeownership

2. Apply to multiple programs at once

• Example: If a senior apartment waitlist is long, apply for Section 8, a project-based property, and HomeShare Vermont at the same time.

3. Use the right door

• Rent help: VSHA, local PHAs, Vermont 2‑1‑1.
• Repair help: USDA 504, VCIL Home Access, local housing trusts.
• Energy help: Fuel Assistance, Weatherization, Efficiency Vermont.

4. Follow up

• Keep a simple notebook: date you applied, who you spoke with, and next steps.
• Update agencies when your phone, email, or address changes.

5. If denied

• Ask for the reason in writing.
• Many programs allow an appeal or informal review. Ask your AAA or Vermont Legal Aid to help you appeal or reapply.

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Table 5 — Regional Contacts and Finders

Note: AAA and Community Action links above jump to official statewide directories with the most current contact details.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What age do I need to be for “senior housing” in Vermont?
A: Most HUD-supported senior buildings require all residents to be 62 or older. Some mixed elderly/disabled properties may allow younger adults with disabilities. Always check the property’s criteria. See: HUD Section 202 overview.

Q: Are there income limits?
A: Yes, most programs use HUD or program-specific income limits by county and household size. Look up the latest limits here: HUD Income Limits. USDA 504 and state programs have their own limits—use the program links in this guide.

Q: How long are waitlists for affordable senior housing?
A: It varies by location and building. Urban areas like Burlington and Brattleboro can have longer waits. Apply to multiple properties and the Housing Choice Voucher list when it opens. Keep contact info updated and respond quickly to letters.

Q: Can I use a voucher outside Vermont?
A: Often yes. Housing Choice Vouchers are “portable” after certain conditions. If you want to move, talk with the Vermont State Housing Authority about portability rules: VSHA.

Q: I’m behind on rent. What should I do first?
A: Call your landlord to discuss a payment plan. Contact Vermont 2‑1‑1 for prevention funds and your local Community Action Agency. If you receive a termination or eviction paper, call Vermont Legal Aid immediately.

Q: I own my home but can’t afford repairs. Any grants for seniors?
A: If you’re 62+ with very low income, check the USDA Section 504 Grant. Also ask your regional housing trust (e.g., Champlain Housing Trust, W&W Housing Trust) and VCIL Home Access Program.

Q: What help is there for heating bills?
A: Start with Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP). If you’re out of fuel or about to lose heat, apply for Crisis Fuel. Ask about Energy Assistance discounts for GMP or VGS bills: DCF Energy Assistance.

Q: My building isn’t making repairs. What are my rights?
A: Vermont law requires landlords to keep rentals safe and habitable. Get advice and sample letters from Vermont Tenants at CVOEO and consider contacting Vermont Legal Aid. If there’s immediate danger (no heat in winter, unsafe wiring), call your town’s code or health officer and seek Crisis Fuel if needed.

Q: I think I was treated unfairly because of my age, disability, or identity.
A: Housing discrimination is illegal. You can get help from the Vermont Human Rights Commission and file a complaint with HUD Fair Housing.

Q: What is SASH and how can it help me?
A: SASH (Support And Services at Home) is a statewide program that offers care coordination and wellness support to help people stay safely at home, especially in affordable housing communities. Learn more: SASH Vermont.

Q: Can I get both the Property Tax Credit and Fuel Assistance?
A: Yes. These are separate programs with different rules. Check eligibility and apply separately at the linked program pages.

Q: Do I need legal status to get emergency shelter?
A: Emergency shelter access does not require immigration status. Many public benefits do. For advice, contact Vermont Legal Aid.

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Real-World Tips and Reality Checks

• Apply early and widely: Vermont’s affordable housing is in high demand statewide. Don’t wait for one list—apply to several.
• Keep paperwork ready: A folder with IDs, income proof, and key documents speeds things up.
• Ask for preferences: Some voucher or housing lists have preferences for older adults, people with disabilities, or people experiencing homelessness.
• Think safety and future costs: If stairs, icy paths, or high heating costs are a problem, ask about ground-floor units, accessibility modifications, and weatherization.
• Don’t ignore notices: Court or landlord notices have deadlines. Call Vermont Legal Aid quickly.
• Use your AAA: Area Agencies on Aging can help coordinate applications, benefits, and services you might not know about: Find your AAA.

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Resources (Official and Trusted)

• State of Vermont
  • DCF – Emergency Housing (General Assistance)
  • DCF – Emergency/General Assistance overview
  • DCF – Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP)
  • DCF – Weatherization Assistance
  • DCF – Energy Assistance Programs
  • DAIL – Choices for Care
  • DAIL – Adult Protective Services
  • DHCD – Housing programs & Mobile Home Park Program
  • VT Dept. of Taxes – Property Tax Credit
  • VT Dept. of Taxes – Renter Credit
  • Vermont 2‑1‑1
  • VT Dept. of Public Service
• Federal
  • HUD – Vermont state page
  • HUD Resource Locator
  • HUD Income Limits
  • HUD Fair Housing
  • USDA – Section 504 Home Repair
  • USDA Rural Development – VT/NH Office
  • FCC Lifeline
• Veterans
  • HUD‑VASH
  • SSVF (find providers)
  • White River Junction VA Medical Center
  • Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
• Nonprofits & Housing Finders
  • Vermont State Housing Authority
  • Cathedral Square
  • Vermont Housing Finance Agency – Renters
  • Coordinated Entry (Vermont Coalition to End Homelessness)
  • Vermont Legal Aid
  • Vermont Tenants (CVOEO)
  • VCIL – Home Access Program
  • HomeShare Vermont
  • Pride Center of Vermont – Aging With Pride
  • SASH Vermont
  • Champlain Housing Trust – Home Repair
  • Windham & Windsor Housing Trust – Home Repair

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Disclaimer

Program funding, eligibility rules, and application procedures can change. Always confirm details with the official program or agency linked in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, financial, or benefits advice.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: 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.