Housing Assistance for Seniors in Washington State

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

If you are at risk of losing housing, don’t wait. Use the options below right now.

Situation Do this now Why this helps
Eviction is scheduled or you received a court notice Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “eviction prevention” and legal aid, and contact the Northwest Justice Project – CLEAR Hotline You may qualify for free legal help. Washington funds a right to counsel for eligible low‑income tenants in eviction cases through the Office of Civil Legal Aid.
Homeless today (sleeping outside, car, or shelter needed) Call 2‑1‑1 for your county’s Coordinated Entry for homelessness, or use the Washington 2‑1‑1 “Get Help” directory Coordinated Entry is the front door to shelters, rapid rehousing, and other crisis programs.
Domestic violence or abuse Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800‑799‑7233 They can help you find safe shelter and legal options.
No heat, power shutoff, or furnace failure Call 2‑1‑1 and your utility provider; apply for LIHEAP and utility discount programs; see the WA Dept. of Commerce Energy Assistance page Energy assistance can stop shutoffs and help pay bills or repairs.
Unsafe home (electrical, roof leak, no hot water) Ask 2‑1‑1 for home repair and weatherization; review USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants Grants/loans can remove health and safety hazards for eligible 62+ homeowners.
Mortgage foreclosure notice Call the free HOPE™ Homeowner Hotline at 888‑995‑HOPE and see Washington’s Foreclosure Fairness Program Free HUD-approved housing counselors can help you understand options and timelines.
Mental health crisis Call/text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 support and connection to local help.
Any housing question, don’t know where to start Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit Washington 2‑1‑1 They connect you to local programs in your county.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington has multiple housing programs for seniors, but many have waitlists. Apply to several options at once and ask for interim help (legal aid, emergency funds, utility assistance).
  • The biggest supports: HUD senior apartments (Section 202), Section 8 vouchers and public housing, USDA 504 repair grants for 62+, property tax exemptions/deferrals for homeowners, weatherization and LIHEAP for energy, and local utility discounts.
  • For legal issues and evictions, Washington funds tenant defense for eligible low‑income renters; call legal aid right away.
  • The Washington State Housing Finance Commission lists affordable apartments statewide. The Department of Commerce funds energy, weatherization, and some homelessness programs delivered locally by Community Action Agencies.
  • Don’t rely on one program. Use 2‑1‑1 to find county‑specific help, apply for tax relief if you own a home, and ask your Area Agency on Aging for care and housing navigation.

How Housing Help Works in Washington

Washington Senior Housing Programs at a Glance

The table below summarizes the programs most seniors use. Details follow.

Program Who it helps What it covers Where to apply
HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Very low‑income 62+ Subsidized senior apartments with on‑site services; you typically pay ~30% of income Search the HUD Resource Locator and contact properties directly
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Very low‑income renters Rent subsidy in private apartments; you pay ~30% of adjusted income Apply via your local housing authority (see “Resources by Region”) and monitor waitlist openings via the Seattle HUD office
Public Housing (senior/disabled units) Low‑income renters Income‑based rent in housing authority properties Local housing authority websites (regional links below)
Project‑Based Section 8 and LIHTC Senior Apartments Low‑ to very low‑income Affordable units with fixed below‑market rents Use the WSHFC Apartment & Property Search
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants 62+ low‑income homeowners in eligible rural areas 1% loans up to 40,000;grantsupto40,000; grants up to 10,000 to remove health/safety hazards USDA Rural Development WA
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Income‑eligible homeowners and renters Free insulation, air sealing, furnace repair/replacement if needed Commerce Weatherization via local Community Action Agencies
Low‑Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Income‑eligible households Help with heating bills and crisis energy needs WA LIHEAP information
Property Tax Exemption & Deferral for Seniors/Disabled Homeowners meeting age/disability and income rules Reduces or defers property taxes WA Dept. of Revenue – Property Tax Relief
Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) Very low‑income adults unable to work Limited rent/utility assistance and essential needs; referral required Overview at Commerce – HEN and screening through DSHS
Legal Aid & Right to Counsel Low‑income tenants facing eviction Free legal representation in qualifying cases Office of Civil Legal Aid – Eviction Defense, Northwest Justice Project

Notes:

Applying Step‑by‑Step (What to Gather and Expect)

  1. Prove identity and age
    • State ID or driver license, birth certificate, or passport.
  2. Show income and assets
    • Social Security award letter, pension statements, pay stubs (if any), bank statements, and SSI/ABD proof if applicable.
  3. Housing proof
    • Lease or mortgage statement, notices (eviction, rent increase, foreclosure), utility bills.
  4. Medical/disability documentation (if relevant)
    • For disability‑based programs or reasonable accommodation requests.
  5. Apply widely and follow up
    • Put your name on multiple waitlists (housing authorities, senior apartments).
    • Ask for “preferences” (age, veteran, disability, homeless, local resident) if they apply to you.
  6. While waiting, reduce costs
    • Apply for LIHEAP, utility discounts, property tax relief (homeowners), and SNAP/food programs via WashingtonConnection.org.

Reality check: Waitlists can be long—months or years in larger counties. Always ask if there’s an “open units” list, project‑based options, or short‑term “bridge” help (rent or move‑in assistance) through local charities. Keep a simple folder with copies of your documents; it saves time at each agency.

Deep Dive: Main Programs for Seniors

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly (62+)

  • What it is: Federally subsidized apartments designed for seniors, often with service coordinators. Rent is typically about 30% of your adjusted income.
  • What it covers: A private apartment in a senior community; some properties offer meals, transportation, or wellness programs on‑site.
  • How to apply: Search addresses via the HUD Resource Locator and contact each property to ask about vacancies, waitlists, and application packets.
  • Tip: Ask if they maintain an “interest list” even when the waitlist is closed. Some properties accept applications year‑round.

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

  • What it is: A portable voucher that helps pay rent in the private market. You pay about 30% of your adjusted income; the voucher covers the rest up to a local limit.
  • Who runs it: Local housing authorities (city or county). Some have senior or disability preferences.
  • How to apply: Watch for openings on housing authority websites and the HUD Washington page. Apply for multiple jurisdictions if possible.
  • Reality check: Vouchers are powerful but scarce. If you get a voucher, ask for a “reasonable accommodation” for more search time if mobility or health issues make finding a place harder.

Public Housing (Senior/Disabled Units)

  • What it is: Apartments owned by housing authorities. Rents are income‑based.
  • Apply: Directly at your housing authority. See regional links below.
  • Tip: Some buildings are age‑ or disability‑designated and may have shorter lists than general public housing.

Project‑Based Section 8 and LIHTC Senior Apartments

  • What it is: Affordable apartments in privately owned buildings. Rent is income‑restricted; some units are tied to subsidies.
  • Where to find: Use the WSHFC Apartment & Property Search. Filter by county, city, and “senior” or “age‑restricted.”
  • Reality check: Not all LIHTC properties include deep subsidies. Ask, “Is rent set by income (percentage) or is it a fixed below‑market rent?”

USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants (62+)

  • What it is: Help for low‑income seniors in eligible rural areas to remove health and safety hazards.
  • Terms: Loans up to 40,000at140,000 at 1% (up to 20 years). Grants up to 10,000 for 62+; grant recapture applies if you sell within 3 years. See details at USDA Rural Development WA.
  • Repairs often funded: Roof, heating system, electrical hazards, plumbing/septic failures, accessibility ramps.
  • How to apply: Contact your local USDA Rural Development office listed on the Washington page above.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it is: Free home energy upgrades for income‑eligible households. Can include insulation, air sealing, and repair/replacement of unsafe heating equipment.
  • Why it matters: Improves comfort and can lower bills.
  • Apply through: Your local Community Action Agency listed on Commerce Weatherization.

Low‑Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

  • What it is: Help with heating costs and crisis bills.
  • Apply through: Local agencies found via Commerce LIHEAP.
  • Tip: Apply early in the season—funding is limited.

Property Tax Relief for Seniors/Disabled (Homeowners)

Washington’s property tax relief programs are run by counties under state law. Income limits and benefit levels vary by county and are tied to local median incomes.

Program Basic idea Key points Where to start
Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption Reduces your property taxes Age 61+ or disabled, owner‑occupied, income within your county’s threshold; documentation required WA Dept. of Revenue – Exemption
Senior/Disabled Property Tax Deferral Delays paying property taxes Taxes are deferred as a lien; repay when you sell or transfer; interest applies WA Dept. of Revenue – Deferral

Reality check: Exemptions lower your bill right away if approved. Deferrals help cash flow but create a lien; talk with family and check future plans before choosing a deferral.

Housing and Essential Needs (HEN)

  • What it is: Limited rent/utility assistance and essential items (like hygiene or household goods) for adults who cannot work.
  • Important: You generally need a HEN referral through DSHS (often tied to Aged, Blind, or Disabled—or ABD—benefits). Seniors receiving SSI or ABD may qualify.
  • Learn more: Commerce – HEN and apply via DSHS.

Long‑Term Care Housing Options (if you need daily help)

Reverse Mortgage Counseling (and Cautions)

  • Who to contact: Find HUD‑approved counselors via the WSHFC Reverse Mortgage Counseling page or HUD’s counselor search tool.
  • Reality check: Reverse mortgages can be useful for homeowners on fixed incomes, but they have fees, obligations (taxes, insurance, maintenance), and foreclosure risk if those aren’t paid.

Energy and Utility Help (Beyond LIHEAP)

Many Washington utilities run strong discount or assistance programs. Apply for LIHEAP first, then contact your utility:

Utility Program page What it can offer
Seattle City Light & Seattle Public Utilities Utility Discount Program (UDP) Up to significant percentage off electricity, water, sewer, and garbage bills for income‑qualified households; seniors may have streamlined documentation.
Tacoma Public Utilities Assistance Programs Bill credits, payment plans, and emergency help for power/water.
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) Bill Payment Assistance HELP bill credits, crisis assistance, and weatherization referrals.
Snohomish PUD Income-Qualified Assistance Monthly bill discounts and conservation help.
Clark Public Utilities Financial Assistance Bill credit programs, senior discounts, and energy efficiency help.
Avista (Spokane area) Energy Assistance Energy assistance referrals, payment arrangements, and conservation programs.

Tip: Ask about medical necessity protections (for life‑support equipment) and “warm weather/cold weather” shutoff rules. Utilities often have extra safeguards for seniors.

Eviction Prevention, Legal Help, and Fair Housing

Help for Homeowners (Taxes, Repairs, and Foreclosure)

Finding and Applying for Affordable Apartments

  • Search tools:
  • What to ask when you call:
    • Is the building age‑restricted (62+ or 55+)? Is it project‑based Section 8 or LIHTC with fixed rents?
    • What documents do you need from me?
    • Are there preferences (veteran, local resident, disability) that may shorten wait time?
    • Can I join an interest list if the waitlist is closed?

Specialized Help for Diverse Senior Groups

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Tip: If you experience discrimination, contact the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

Veteran Seniors

Disabled Seniors

  • Long‑term services and supports, care coordination, and housing navigation: ALTSA and your local Area Agency on Aging.
  • Accessibility modifications: Consider USDA 504, weatherization programs, and nonprofits like Rebuilding Together (search your county).
  • Fair housing rights and reasonable accommodations: See HUD guidance and WA Human Rights Commission.

Tribal Members and Native Seniors

  • Tribal housing authorities: Contact your tribe’s Housing Authority for rentals, homeownership, or rehab programs. Find tribes at the Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs – Tribal Directory.
  • HUD Office of Native American Programs (ONAP) – Northwest: See resources via the HUD Northwest ONAP.
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program (HIP): Repairs and renovations for eligible members. See BIA HIP.

Rural Seniors

Common Scenarios and Where to Start

Scenario First steps Programs to ask about
Renter age 70 with a 30‑day pay‑or‑vacate notice Call legal aid (NJP), apply for emergency rent help via 2‑1‑1, and ask about tenant defense Right to Counsel, local rent assistance, Section 8 waitlists
Homeowner age 75 with failing furnace in rural county Call 2‑1‑1, apply for Weatherization and USDA 504 grant Weatherization, USDA 504 grant/loan
Age 68 with high property taxes and fixed income Apply for property tax exemption/deferral with county assessor DOR Senior/Disabled Exemption
Age 80 moving closer to medical care, needs an elevator building Search WSHFC properties and HUD 202 buildings; ask for accessibility features and preferences WSHFC Apartment Search, HUD Resource Locator
Veteran age 72 facing homelessness Call VA Homeless Programs and local SSVF provider; ask about HUD‑VASH VA Homeless, SSVF Directory

Resources by Region (Selected)

Note: This is not exhaustive. If your area is not listed, call 2‑1‑1 or your local AAA (directory at W4A).

Seattle / King County

Spokane County

Tacoma / Pierce County

Vancouver / Clark County

Everett / Snohomish County

Yakima County

Tri‑Cities (Benton/Franklin)

Olympia / Thurston County

Bellingham / Whatcom County

Kitsap County

If your county isn’t listed, use:

Practical Tips That Save Time

  • Keep a “housing folder”: Photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, bank statements, lease/mortgage, and any legal notices. Bring it to every appointment.
  • Ask about preferences: Veteran, disability, homelessness, or local residency can sometimes shorten wait time.
  • Don’t miss mail: Many agencies send time‑sensitive letters. If you move, file a mail forward and update your address with each program.
  • Re‑certify on time: Put reminders on your calendar for annual or 6‑month re‑certifications.
  • While you wait: Apply to LIHEAP, weatherization, and utility discounts; if you own, file for property tax relief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What age counts as “senior” for housing in Washington?
A: It depends. HUD elderly housing and USDA 504 grants use 62+. Many aging services start at 60+. Some tax programs use age 61+ combined with income rules. Always check the specific program page.

Q: I can’t find an open Section 8 waitlist. What else can I do?
A: Apply to project‑based buildings (including HUD Section 202 and LIHTC senior properties) using the WSHFC Apartment Search and the HUD Resource Locator. Also watch nearby counties’ housing authorities; you can often apply to more than one.

Q: Are there grants to help me repair my home?
A: Yes—if you are 62+ and live in an eligible rural area, the USDA Section 504 program offers grants and low‑interest loans to fix health and safety hazards. Weatherization can also repair unsafe heating systems for income‑eligible households.

Q: Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living or adult family homes?
A: Possibly. If you meet financial and care‑need criteria, Washington’s Medicaid (Apple Health) long‑term services and supports may help. Start with ALTSA or apply via HCS – Apply for Services.

Q: My landlord won’t allow grab bars or a reasonable accommodation. What are my rights?
A: You have rights under fair housing laws. Request reasonable accommodations in writing. If refused or ignored, contact the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD Fair Housing.

Q: Does Washington still have COVID‑era rental assistance?
A: Large emergency programs have ended or greatly reduced. Some counties still fund eviction prevention or “housing stabilization” through local nonprofits. Call 2‑1‑1 to see what’s active in your county.

Q: Is there help if my Social Security check doesn’t cover rent and utilities?
A: Combine supports: apply for an affordable apartment (HUD/LIHTC), utility discounts (see your utility’s assistance page), LIHEAP, and SNAP via WashingtonConnection.org. If you own, apply for property tax relief.

Q: How do I avoid scams?
A: You do not have to pay to apply for Section 8, LIHEAP, or property tax relief. Use official websites linked in this guide or call 2‑1‑1. Be cautious with anyone asking for money to put you on a waitlist.

Resources (Statewide)

Quick Comparison Tables

1) Program Fit by Housing Situation

You are… Best first calls Programs that often fit
Renting and cost‑burdened 2‑1‑1, local housing authority, AAA Section 8, public housing, LIHTC senior apartments, utility discounts, LIHEAP
Homeowner with urgent repairs 2‑1‑1, USDA RD, local Community Action USDA 504, weatherization, property tax relief
At risk of eviction Legal aid (NJP), 2‑1‑1 Right to Counsel, rental assistance (local), payment plans
Need assisted living or AFH AAA, ALTSA Medicaid LTSS (if eligible), options counseling
Veteran needing housing VA Homeless Programs, SSVF provider HUD‑VASH, SSVF, County Veterans Assistance

2) Property Tax Relief Snapshot

Feature Exemption Deferral
Immediate bill reduction Yes No (payment delayed)
Creates a lien No Yes
Age/Disability 61+ or disabled 60+ or disabled (check rules)
Income test Yes (county thresholds) Yes
Where to apply County assessor via DOR guidance County assessor via DOR guidance

3) Energy Help Layering

Step Program Why it helps
1 LIHEAP Pays part of heating costs; can stop shutoffs
2 Utility Discount Program Lowers monthly bills going forward
3 Weatherization Reduces usage; repairs unsafe heating equipment
4 Payment arrangement Extra time to catch up with your utility

4) Affordable Rental Options Cheat Sheet

Type Who runs it How rent is set Where to search
Section 202 senior housing Nonprofits with HUD subsidy ~30% of income HUD Resource Locator
Section 8 voucher Housing authorities ~30% of income (market cap) Local HA websites, HUD WA
Public housing (senior/disabled) Housing authorities Income‑based Local HA websites
LIHTC senior apartments Private owners with tax credits Fixed below‑market rents or income‑based units WSHFC Apartment Search

5) Home Repair Options Summary

Need Program Notes
Roof, heating, electrical hazards USDA 504 62+ grants; 1% loans; rural areas only
High energy bills, unsafe furnace Weatherization Free upgrades for income‑eligible
Accessibility (ramps, bars) USDA 504; local nonprofits Ask 2‑1‑1 about Rebuilding Together or similar groups

Real‑World Examples

  • Rural furnace failure: A senior homeowner in Adams County with a broken heating system worked with the local Community Action Agency through the Weatherization Assistance Program. The program replaced unsafe equipment and added insulation, reducing winter bills.
  • Roof leak on fixed income: A 72‑year‑old in Mason County applied for a USDA 504 grant/loan to replace a leaking roof and install grab bars in the bath, addressing both safety and accessibility.
  • Eviction defense: In King County, a tenant contacted the Housing Justice Project after receiving a court notice. With legal help, the senior negotiated a payment plan and extra time to move into a subsidized unit located via the WSHFC Apartment Search.

(Programs vary by county; outcomes depend on eligibility, funding, and case details.)

Checklist: Documents That Usually Speed Things Up

  • Government photo ID
  • Social Security card or number
  • Proof of income (Social Security, SSI, pension, pay stubs)
  • Bank statements (last 2–3 months)
  • Lease or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills and any shutoff notices
  • Medical/disability documentation (if applicable)
  • Birth certificates for household members (if requested)

Important Notes on Current Programs

  • Affordable Connectivity Program (internet discount) funding lapsed in 2024. Check the FCC ACP page for any updates or replacement programs.
  • Many county-level “eviction prevention” funds change year‑to‑year. Always call 2‑1‑1 to learn what’s active now.
  • Section 8 and Section 202 waitlists open briefly. Sign up for housing authority alerts and check weekly.

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: April 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.

Disclaimer

This guide is for information only. Program rules, funding, eligibility, and contacts change. Always confirm details with the agency or organization linked in this guide. Applying does not guarantee approval.

Share this post:
Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp
Check Assistance Programs and Benefits for Seniors in Your State
Alabama Montana
Alaska Nebraska
Arizona Nevada
Arkansas New Hampshire
California New Jersey
Colorado New Mexico
Connecticut New York
Delaware North Carolina
Florida North Dakota
Georgia Ohio
Hawaii Oklahoma
Idaho Oregon
Illinois Pennsylvania
Indiana Rhode Island
Iowa South Carolina
Kansas South Dakota
Kentucky Tennessee
Louisiana Texas
Maine Utah
Maryland Vermont
Massachusetts Virginia
Michigan Washington
Minnesota West Virginia
Mississippi Wisconsin
Missouri Wyoming

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.