Housing Assistance for Seniors in Indiana (2025 Guide)

Last updated: August 19, 2025

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If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 911 for immediate danger or unsafe housing conditions (fire, gas leak, medical emergency).
• Call or text 988 for a mental health crisis.
• Call 211 or visit Indiana 211 for 24/7 connections to emergency shelter, rent/utility help, and local programs.
• If you are facing homelessness tonight, ask for “Coordinated Entry” through 211. This is how Indiana’s homeless response system prioritizes shelter and housing.
• Veterans who are homeless or at risk: Call the VA’s 24/7 line at 877-424-3838 or visit VA Homeless Programs. Ask about HUD-VASH and SSVF help.

Table: Emergency contacts at a glance

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Key Takeaways

• Indiana seniors can lower housing costs through federal programs (Section 8, Section 202, USDA Rural Housing), state programs (IHCDA energy/weatherization), county property tax relief, and local city home repair funds.
• Expect waitlists for vouchers and subsidized apartments. Apply to multiple options and ask for preferences (age, disability, veteran status) when available.
• For homeowners 62+, USDA Section 504 grants can fund critical repairs and safety fixes in rural areas. Weatherization can reduce utility bills statewide.
• Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the state’s winter shutoff moratorium protect eligible households. Apply early each fall.
• Property tax deductions and credits for seniors can significantly reduce your bill—file with your county auditor.
• Start with your Area Agency on Aging for in-home services, home modifications, and counseling on staying safely at home.

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What This Guide Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

This is a practical, step-by-step hub for Indiana seniors looking for help with rent, affordable apartments, home repairs, accessibility, utilities, property taxes, and homelessness prevention. It links directly to official Indiana and federal sources and explains what’s realistic, including waitlists and documentation. It does not list every private charity; for local charities, use 211.

Indiana adults 65+ make up a growing share of the population, and many are on fixed incomes. For statewide data and context, see U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Indiana.

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Affordable Rentals and Help Paying Rent

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and Public Housing

• What it is: Monthly rent help for low-income households. You pay about 30% of your income toward rent; the voucher covers the rest up to a local limit. Public Housing is similar but in specific buildings.
• Who runs it: Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
• How to apply: Find and contact PHAs near you. Many waitlists open and close. Apply to several.

Use HUD’s official list to locate PHAs:
Find Indiana Public Housing Authorities (HUD contact list)
State page: select Indiana to see phone numbers, addresses, and websites.

Reality check:

• Waitlists can be long or closed. Ask to be notified when lists open. Some PHAs give preferences to seniors, people with disabilities, local residents, or veterans.
• You must pass a background check and provide documents (ID, Social Security cards, proof of income, bank statements).

HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

• What it is: Apartments reserved for older adults (generally 62+) with very low incomes. Rents are income-based, and buildings often include service coordination.
• How to apply: Contact properties directly. Search with HUD’s tool:
  HUD Resource Locator – Find subsidized apartments

Tip: Search by your city and filter for “Elderly” housing. Call to ask about waiting lists, application steps, and required documents.

USDA Rural Rental Housing (Section 515/521)

• What it is: Affordable apartments in rural areas, often with rental assistance that caps rent at 30% of income. Many properties welcome seniors and people with disabilities.
• How to apply: Search USDA’s database and call properties directly.
  USDA Rural Development – Find a Rental Property
  Indiana office: USDA Rural Development Indiana

Local Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention

• Indiana’s statewide COVID-era rental aid ended. Today, help is local and limited (city funds, county funds, township poor relief, charities).
• Start with 211 and your Township Trustee (Indiana’s township system offers emergency “poor relief” to eligible residents).

Find your trustee: Indiana Township Association – Lookup
Ask about emergency rent, utility, and burial assistance policies.

Table: Affordable rental options and where to apply

Documents to gather (for any rent program):

• Government ID, Social Security cards
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pensions, pay stubs)
• Bank statements
• Current lease and any eviction paperwork (if applicable)
• Proof of disability or veteran status if claiming a preference

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Home Repair, Safety, and Accessibility

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

• What it is: Grants up to $10,000forhomeownersage62+withverylowincomestoremovehealthandsafetyhazards(roofleaks,wiring,accessibility).Loansupto$40,000 at low interest may also be available; grants do not have to be repaid unless the home is sold within three years.
• Where it works: Rural areas (USDA-eligible locations in Indiana).
• How to apply: Contact USDA Rural Development.
  Program page: USDA Section 504 Home Repair
  Indiana office: USDA Rural Development Indiana

Reality check: Funding is limited and competitive. The property must be in a USDA-eligible area, and household income must be very low for your county.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – Indiana

• What it is: Free energy-saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing, furnace tune-ups, safety checks) for eligible households to cut utility bills and improve comfort.
• Who runs it: Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and local providers.
• How to apply: Find your local agency and apply.
  Indiana Weatherization Assistance Program (IHCDA)

Owner-Occupied Home Repair (Local Programs)

Many Indiana cities and counties use federal HOME/CDBG funds for critical repairs and accessibility modifications for income-eligible homeowners. Availability changes year to year. Examples:

• Indianapolis: Department of Metropolitan Development – Home Repair Programs
• Fort Wayne: Office of Housing & Neighborhood Services – Homeowner Programs
• Evansville: Department of Metropolitan Development – Homeowner Programs
• South Bend: Department of Community Investment – Home Repair
• Gary: Community Development – Housing Programs

Tip: If your city/county isn’t listed, call your local government’s housing/community development office or dial 211 to ask about “owner-occupied rehab” or “accessibility modifications.”

Home Modifications Through Medicaid and Aging Services

• Indiana Medicaid long-term services are transitioning under PathWays for Aging (for Hoosiers 60+ on Medicaid). Environmental/home modifications may be included when medically necessary.
  • Program info: PathWays for Aging (FSSA)
  • Apply for Medicaid and services: FSSA Benefits Portal
• CHOICE Program (state-funded): Helps eligible adults remain at home with in-home services. Contact your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to be screened.
  CHOICE Program – Indiana FSSA Division of Aging
• Find your AAA: INconnect Alliance – Find Local AAA

Veterans’ Home Modification Grants

• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Home Adaptation (SHA), and Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grants help veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities adapt a home.
  Learn more and apply: VA Housing Adaptation Grants
  For rent help (HUD-VASH) or rapid rehousing (SSVF), see the Veterans section below.

Table: Home repair and accessibility programs (quick view)

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Help With Utilities and Home Energy Bills

Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP) – Indiana

• What it is: Helps pay winter heating (and sometimes cooling) bills for income-eligible households. Participation also triggers Indiana’s winter shutoff moratorium protections.
• Apply each year (typically fall through spring) with your local provider.
• Official program page: IHCDA Energy Assistance Program

Winter Disconnection Moratorium

• Regulated utilities in Indiana cannot disconnect service between December 1 and March 15 for customers who qualify for EAP and have applied. Learn more from the state’s consumer office:
  Indiana OUCC – Winter Disconnection Rules

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• See above in Home Repair: IHCDA Weatherization

Water/Sewer and Other Utility Help

• The federal LIHWAP (water program) has ended, but many utilities and cities run their own assistance funds. Call your water/sewer provider or dial 211 to locate any local program.
• If you receive a shutoff notice, call the utility immediately to set up a payment plan and then apply for EAP and any local aid.

Phone and Internet Discounts

• Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or internet for low-income households.
  Learn more and apply: Lifeline Program (USAC)

Table: Energy and utility help for seniors in Indiana

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Property Tax and Homeowner Relief

Indiana offers several deductions and credits that can lower your property tax bill, including options for seniors and disabled veterans.

• Learn about all deductions/credits and forms:
  Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) – Property Tax Deductions & Credits

Key programs to ask your county auditor about:

• Over 65 Deduction and Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit
• Homestead Deduction (for your primary residence)
• Disabled Veteran Deduction/Credit (based on disability rating and service period)
• Mortgage and Supplemental deductions (where applicable)

How to apply:

• File with your county auditor. Bring ID, proof of age, income (for senior programs), and proof of disability/veteran status if applicable.
• Deadlines and forms can vary. Ask the auditor’s office or see the DLGF page above.

Reverse mortgage counseling:

• If you’re considering a reverse mortgage (HECM) to stay in your home, get counseling from a HUD-approved agency first.
  HUD Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Information & Counseling
  Find a counselor: HUD Housing Counseling Agencies

Foreclosure prevention:

• Free, HUD-certified housing counseling is available. Indiana’s foreclosure helpline and counseling network are coordinated by the state’s partners.
  Start here: IHCDA Homeowner Resources and HUD – Find a Housing Counselor

Table: Property tax and homeowner relief (snapshot)

Reality check:

• Property tax deductions don’t apply automatically—you must file. If your income changes or you move, update your filings with the auditor.
• Reverse mortgages can affect inheritance and benefits. Counseling is required for a reason—ask hard questions before you sign.

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Homelessness Prevention and Re-Housing

• Call 211 and ask for Coordinated Entry. This is the doorway to shelters, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing. Availability is limited, and seniors may be prioritized when health and safety are at risk.
• Legal help: If you receive an eviction filing, contact Indiana Legal Services immediately. Check court notices and appear on your hearing date.
• Fair housing: If you believe you were denied housing because of age, disability, race, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or other protected traits, you can file a complaint.
  File with the state: Indiana Civil Rights Commission – Housing Discrimination
  Or with HUD: HUD – Fair Housing Complaint

Continuums of Care (CoC):

• Balance of State (covers most counties): Indiana Balance of State CoC (IHCDA)
• Indianapolis/Marion County CoC: Indianapolis CoC (CHIP)

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How To Apply (and Get to “Yes”)

1. Get organized.

• Keep a folder with copies of your ID, Social Security card, income proof (Social Security award letter, pension statements), bank statements, lease/deed, utility bills, and medical/disability documents.
• Ask agencies for a checklist before your appointment.

2. Apply widely, in order of urgency.

• If you’re in crisis this month: 211, Township Trustee, utility provider, and any city emergency funds.
• For the long term: Section 8 vouchers and subsidized senior buildings (apply to multiple lists), USDA rural rental properties, and WAP/LIHEAP.

3. Follow up.

• Waitlists move. Call every 60–90 days to confirm your status and update your contact info.

4. Be honest and precise.

• Small errors delay approvals. If your income or household changes, notify programs that you applied to.

5. Ask about preferences.

• Many programs give preferences to older adults, people with disabilities, veterans, or local residents. Ask directly.

Reality check:

• Funding is finite. Most help is not same-day. But timely applications, complete documents, and persistence can make a real difference.

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Inclusive Support for Specific Groups

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Protections: Federal fair housing law protects against sex discrimination, which includes sexual orientation and gender identity under current HUD guidance.
  Learn your rights: HUD – Equal Access & Fair Housing
• Housing and services: Ask senior buildings about inclusive policies and onsite service coordinators. For broader support and referrals: SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (877-360-LGBT).

Veteran Seniors

• Rent and housing: HUD-VASH combines Section 8 vouchers with VA case management.
  Info: HUD-VASH (VA)
• Rapid rehousing and prevention: SSVF provides short-term help to prevent homelessness or quickly rehouse.
  Info: SSVF (VA)
• Home adaptations: See VA Housing Adaptation Grants.
• Connect locally through the Indianapolis VA Medical Center or your nearest VA facility: Find VA Facilities.

Disabled Seniors

• Priority: Many housing programs offer disability preferences; ask when applying.
• Accessibility: Combine local rehab programs, Medicaid/PathWays environmental modifications, and (if rural) USDA Section 504 to make a home safer.
• Independent living and rights:
  Indiana disability resources: Indiana Family and Social Services Administration – Disability Services
  Fair housing reasonable accommodations: HUD – Reasonable Accommodations

Native/Tribal Members in Indiana

• If you are an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe, you may qualify for tribal housing assistance through your tribe’s Housing Department (regardless of where you live), and through HUD’s Office of Native American Programs.
  HUD ONAP (Eastern/Woodlands): HUD Eastern/Woodlands ONAP
  Pokagon Band (serving parts of northern Indiana and Michigan): Pokagon Band Department of Housing
• You can also apply for Indiana’s mainstream programs listed in this guide.

Rural Seniors

• Focus on USDA programs (Section 504 home repairs, Section 515 rentals) and local Community Action Agencies for WAP/EAP.
  USDA Indiana: USDA Rural Development Indiana
• Transportation and in-home help: Contact your AAA for rides, home-delivered meals, and case management.
  Find your AAA: INconnect Alliance

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Resources by Region (Selected Contacts)

Note: This is not exhaustive. Use 211 for more.

• Indianapolis/Marion County
  • PHA: Indianapolis Housing Agency
  • City home repair: Indianapolis Home Repair Programs
  • CoC & Coordinated Entry: CHIP Indianapolis
• Fort Wayne/Allen County
  • PHA: Fort Wayne Housing Authority
  • Homeowner programs: Fort Wayne OHNS
• Evansville/Vanderburgh County
  • PHA: Evansville Housing Authority
  • Home repair: Evansville DMD
• South Bend/St. Joseph County
  • PHA: Housing Authority of South Bend
  • Home repair: South Bend Home Repair
• Gary/Lake County
  • PHA: Gary Housing Authority
  • City housing programs: Gary Community Development
• Bloomington/Monroe County
  • PHA: Bloomington Housing Authority
  • City housing & repairs: City of Bloomington Housing
• Lafayette/West Lafayette/Tippecanoe County
  • PHA: Lafayette Housing Authority
  • Programs: Lafayette Community Development
• Muncie/Delaware County
  • PHA: Muncie Housing Authority
  • City programs: Muncie Community Development
• Hammond
  • PHA: Hammond Housing Authority
• Terre Haute/Vigo County
  • PHA: Terre Haute Housing Authority
  • City programs: Terre Haute Redevelopment/Community Dev.
• Anderson/Madison County
  • PHA: Anderson Housing Authority
  • City programs: Anderson Community Development
• Evansville, Gary, and other cities not listed: dial 211 or check your city’s “community development” or “housing” webpage.

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Program Comparison Tables You Can Use

Table: Major programs at a glance

Table: Documents checklist (print this)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are there any Indiana-specific rent grants for seniors right now?
   There is no ongoing statewide rent grant for seniors. Most rent help is through federal programs (Section 8 vouchers, subsidized senior apartments) and local crisis funds managed by cities, counties, township trustees, and nonprofits. Start with Indiana 211 and apply to multiple PHAs via HUD’s PHA list.
2. My voucher waitlist is closed. What can I do?
   Apply to other PHAs within commuting distance, look for HUD Section 202 senior buildings through the HUD Resource Locator, and consider USDA rural properties if you can live in a rural area: USDA RD Rentals. Re-check waitlists every few months.
3. I own my home but can’t afford repairs. What’s my best option?
   If you are 62+ in a rural area, start with USDA Section 504 Home Repair. In cities/suburbs, ask your city or county about “owner-occupied rehab” programs. Also see the IHCDA Weatherization program.
4. When can my utility shut off my power in winter?
   If you qualify for and apply to LIHEAP/EAP, regulated utilities cannot shut off power between Dec 1 and Mar 15. See: OUCC Winter Disconnection Rules.
5. How do I get my property taxes reduced as a senior?
   Ask the County Auditor about the Over 65 Deduction and Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit. Learn more at: DLGF – Deductions & Credits. Bring ID and income documentation.
6. Is there help for accessibility modifications like ramps and bathrooms?
   Yes. Options include local owner-occupied rehab programs, USDA Section 504 (rural), Medicaid/PathWays environmental modifications (when medically necessary), and VA housing adaptation grants for eligible veterans.
7. I’m a veteran. Should I apply for Section 8 or HUD-VASH?
   If you are eligible for VA healthcare and have a qualifying need, HUD-VASH combines a voucher with case management and often moves faster. Ask at your VA medical center or call 877-424-3838. You can also apply for regular Section 8 waitlists.
8. Do I have protections if my landlord refuses reasonable accommodations for my disability?
   Yes. You can request reasonable accommodations under fair housing laws. If denied, you may file a complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission or with HUD: Fair Housing Complaint.
9. I’m behind on my mortgage. Is there still help?
   COVID-era mortgage programs have ended, but free housing counselors can help you understand options like forbearance, loan modification, or property tax appeals. Start with: HUD Housing Counseling Agencies and the IHCDA Homeowner Resources.
10. Where do I start if I’m overwhelmed?
    Call Indiana 211 to find local help, and contact your Area Agency on Aging for hands-on guidance with in-home services, modifications, and benefits: INconnect Alliance – Find your AAA.

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Resource Links (Official Sources)

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – Programs:
  • Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • Weatherization Assistance Program
  • Homeowner & Renter Resources
  • Indiana Balance of State CoC
• HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development):
  • Find Indiana PHAs (Section 8/Public Housing)
  • HUD Resource Locator (Find Subsidized Housing)
  • Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
  • Housing Counseling Agencies
  • Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Info
• USDA Rural Development:
  • Section 504 Home Repair Grants/Loans
  • Find USDA Rural Rentals
  • USDA RD Indiana
• Indiana FSSA (Family & Social Services Administration):
  • PathWays for Aging
  • CHOICE Program
  • INconnect Alliance – Find Your AAA
  • FSSA Benefits Portal (Apply for Medicaid/SNAP/Cash)
• Legal and Consumer Protection:
  • Indiana Legal Services
  • Indiana OUCC – Utility Consumer Protections
  • Winter Disconnection Rules
  • Indiana Civil Rights Commission – Fair Housing
• Homelessness and Veterans:
  • Indiana 211
  • CHIP Indianapolis (Marion County CoC)
  • VA Homeless Programs
  • HUD-VASH
  • SSVF
• County/Local Government (examples):
  • Indianapolis Home Repair Programs
  • Fort Wayne Homeowner Programs
  • Evansville DMD Homeowner Programs
  • South Bend Home Repair
• Township Relief:
  • Indiana Township Association – Lookup
• Tribal:
  • HUD – Office of Native American Programs (Eastern/Woodlands)
  • Pokagon Band Department of Housing

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Disclaimer

Program funding, eligibility, income limits, forms, and deadlines change. Always confirm details with the official agency or office linked in this guide before applying or making financial decisions.

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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: 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.