Housing Assistance for Seniors in Maine

Last updated: August 22, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 211 Maine for 24/7 housing and shelter referrals: https://211maine.org or dial 2-1-1
• Facing eviction? Contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance right away for free legal help: https://ptla.org/housing or call your local office (see website).
• Need help tonight? Call your city or town’s General Assistance office (emergency housing, move-in help, basic needs): Maine DHHS General Assistance overview and local contacts are on this page: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/general-assistance
• Homelessness services and shelter access: MaineHousing Homeless Services and Coordinated Entry: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/homelessness/homeless-services
• Discrimination in housing (including age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity): Maine Human Rights Commission complaint info: https://www.maine.gov/mhrc/case

In a crisis, call 911 if you are in danger. For mental health crisis support, call or text 988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline): https://988lifeline.org

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Key Takeaways

• Maine has several programs that can help seniors with rent, property taxes, home repairs, weatherization, and utilities. Many are run by MaineHousing (the Maine State Housing Authority), the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, and local Community Action Agencies.
• If you own your home and have low income, check Maine’s Senior Property Tax Deferral program and MaineHousing’s Home Repair Network first. If you rent, look at HUD-subsidized senior apartments, Section 8 vouchers, and local housing authority waiting lists.
• For heating and electric bills, apply for LIHEAP (heating help) and ask your utility about the Arrearage Management Program and Low-Income Assistance Program. These can lower bills and forgive past-due balances if you keep current on payments.
• USDA Section 504 grants can help homeowners age 62+ fix health and safety issues in rural areas (including much of Maine). Grants are available for those who can’t repay a loan.
• Use your local Area Agency on Aging for one-on-one help with applications, housing searches, and caregiver support.

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What This Guide Covers (and Why It Matters)

This guide pulls together the main housing help available to older Mainers—renters and homeowners—so you don’t need to hop between dozens of sites. You’ll find who qualifies, how to apply, links to official pages, and tips to avoid common snags. We also include sections for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, people with disabilities, tribal members, and rural households.

To keep things practical, we focus on:

• How programs work in everyday terms
• What to do when waitlists are long
• Where to go locally to get forms and hands-on help
• How to avoid scams and bad advice

We link directly to official sources (state, federal, and recognized nonprofits). Please check those links before applying—rules and funding can change.

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Quick Contacts and Where to Start

Table 1. Fast help for common needs

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How Housing Help Works in Maine (Plain English)

• Many programs are income-based. You’ll often need proof of income (Social Security statements, pensions), ID, and proof of where you live.
• Rent help is often through HUD-subsidized apartments or vouchers. Waitlists can be long; apply to more than one list and keep your contact info updated.
• For homeowners, MaineHousing and USDA can help with safety repairs, accessibility, and energy costs. Start with a call to your local Community Action Agency.
• Property tax relief can significantly lower your annual costs. Some benefits come through your city/town; others through your tax return.

Reality check: Demand is high, especially in Southern Maine and coastal counties. Don’t get discouraged by waitlists—cast a wide net, set calendar reminders to check status, and get on lists now.

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Main Programs for Seniors: What They Do and How To Apply

1) Affordable Rentals and Vouchers

• HUD-Subsidized Senior Apartments (Section 202 and other HUD-assisted housing)
  • What it is: Apartments reserved for older adults with reduced rent. You typically pay about 30% of your income toward rent.
  • Good for: Seniors on fixed incomes who need stable rent and sometimes on-site services.
  • Apply: Search “Find Affordable Rental Housing” and filter for Maine and senior/elderly: https://resources.hud.gov
  • Tip: Each property has its own application and waitlist. Apply to several.
• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
  • What it is: A portable voucher you can use with participating landlords; you generally pay 30% of your income and the voucher covers the rest up to a limit.
  • Good for: Seniors who want to choose a unit in the community, including closer to family or healthcare.
  • Apply: Through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). MaineHousing lists rental programs and links: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/rental/rental
  • Reality check: Wait times vary widely by area. Keep your application updated and respond quickly to letters.
• Public Housing
  • What it is: Apartments owned by housing authorities with income-based rent.
  • Good for: Seniors wanting a community building with known rules and maintenance.
  • Apply: Directly at your local housing authority (e.g., Portland Housing Authority, Bangor Housing). Use MaineHousing’s rental program hub: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/rental/rental
• Rural Rental Housing (USDA Multi-Family)
  • What it is: Affordable apartments in rural towns (many in Maine), often with rental assistance similar to paying 30% of income.
  • Good for: Seniors in smaller towns and rural counties.
  • Search properties: USDA Multifamily Property Search: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/multifamily-housing-programs/multifamily-property-search

2) Home Repair, Accessibility, and Safety

• MaineHousing Home Repair Network (HRN)
  • What it is: A statewide network that helps low-income homeowners fix health/safety issues and make homes more accessible (ramps, grab bars, electrical, roofs in some cases).
  • Apply: MaineHousing Home Repair programs page and local partners: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/home-repair
  • Tip: Work is delivered through local nonprofits/Community Action Agencies. Funding windows can open and close—get on interest lists.
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Loans & Grants)
  • What it is: For low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas. Loans can fund repairs; grants (for age 62+) can remove health and safety hazards.
  • Amounts: As of recent federal updates, loans up to $40,000;grantsupto$10,000 (lifetime limit). Combined assistance can be up to $50,000. Always confirm current limits with USDA.
  • Apply: USDA Maine state contacts and program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
  • Reality check: Grants are for those who can’t repay a loan. Expect inspections and contractor bids.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
  • What it is: Free energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, heating system tune-ups) to lower bills and improve comfort.
  • Apply: Through your local Community Action Agency via MaineHousing: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/weatherization
  • Tip: Combine with LIHEAP to prioritize urgent heating needs.
• Accessibility and Independent Living Support
  • Alpha One (Maine’s Center for Independent Living) offers home accessibility assessments, technology, and financing options for modifications.
  • Learn more: https://alphaonenow.org
  • Note: Some accessibility programs coordinate with MaineHousing or Vocational Rehabilitation depending on the situation.

3) Help With Heating, Utilities, and Weather

• LIHEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
  • What it is: Helps pay part of your winter heating costs. Approval can also unlock other benefits (like utility discounts).
  • Apply: Through your local Community Action Agency. MaineHousing overview and links: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/homeenergyassistanceprogram-liheap
  • Tip: Apply early each season. Bring income proof and fuel vendor info.
• Weatherization (see above) and Furnace Repair/Replacement
  • Some local agencies can repair or replace unsafe heating systems for LIHEAP-eligible households. Ask your Community Action Agency.
• Electric Bill Help: AMP and LIAP
  • Arrearage Management Program (AMP): Forgives portions of past-due electric bills when you make on-time payments for 12 months.
  • Low-Income Assistance Program (LIAP): Monthly credit on electric bills for qualifying households (often tied to LIHEAP eligibility).
  • Learn more and contact your utility: Maine Public Utilities Commission program page: https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/regulated-utilities/electricity/low-income-assistance-programs
  • Reality check: You must stay current each month to keep benefits active.

4) Property Tax Relief for Homeowners

Table 2. Property tax relief programs for Maine seniors

Reality check: “Property Tax Stabilization” (the freeze program) was repealed in 2023. Maine expanded other relief instead. Always confirm current forms and deadlines with your town hall or Maine Revenue Services.

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Maine’s Area Agencies on Aging (Free, Local Help)

These five agencies help with housing options, benefits, caregiver support, and application assistance:

• Southern Maine Agency on Aging (Cumberland & York): https://www.smaaa.org
• SeniorsPlus (Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford): https://seniorsplus.org
• Spectrum Generations (Kennebec, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Somerset, Waldo): https://www.spectrumgenerations.org
• Eastern Area Agency on Aging (Penobscot, Piscataquis, Hancock, Washington): https://www.eaaa.org
• Aroostook Agency on Aging (Aroostook): https://www.aroostookaging.org

Tip: Ask for “options counseling” for housing decisions, and help with LIHEAP, tax credits, and caregiver housing challenges.

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Step-by-Step: Picking the Right Path

1. If you rent now

• Apply to several HUD-subsidized senior buildings (search here: https://resources.hud.gov).
• Get on Section 8 and/or public housing waiting lists at multiple housing authorities.
• If you owe back rent or face eviction, contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance: https://ptla.org/housing and your town’s General Assistance office: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/general-assistance
• Use LIHEAP and utility programs to lower monthly costs: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy

2. If you own your home

• Check MaineHousing Home Repair programs first: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/home-repair
• If you’re 62+ in a rural area and low income, consider USDA 504 grants: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Apply for Homestead Exemption and PTFC; ask your town about Senior Property Tax Deferral: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs
• Apply for LIHEAP and Weatherization to cut heating costs: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy

3. If you need a place fast

• Call 211 Maine and your local General Assistance office right now.
• Ask about shelter, hotel placements, and short-term help with rent or deposits (programs vary by town and funding).
• Ask your Area Agency on Aging to help make calls and gather papers.

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Program Details and How To Avoid Common Roadblocks

Table 3. Applying without delays

Tips:

• Keep digital photos of key documents on your phone or a USB drive.
• If mobility is an issue, ask for phone or home visits from AAAs or CAAs.
• If English is not your first language, ask for interpretation—agencies can arrange it.

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Utility and Energy Help at a Glance

Table 4. Energy programs for Maine seniors

Note: Program names and benefits can change. Always confirm details with your utility or the Maine PUC page above.

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Special Considerations

Veterans and Military Families

• HUD-VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management) can help eligible veterans find stable housing. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) offers rapid re-housing and prevention for very low-income veterans: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services can connect you to state property tax exemptions and local housing resources: https://www.maine.gov/veterans
• If you’re a surviving spouse, ask about property tax exemptions and VA Aid & Attendance (for assisted living or in-home care support).

Reality check: VA housing programs prioritize the most vulnerable. If you can’t reach someone, ask your AAA or a veterans’ service officer to help you escalate.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal in Maine. If you face bias, file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission: https://www.maine.gov/mhrc
• For supportive senior housing or services, ask your AAA if there are LGBTQ+-welcoming communities nearby and check national resources like SAGE for guidance: https://www.sageusa.org
• If privacy or safety is a concern in shared housing, ask management about room/placement options before you apply.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Ask housing authorities about “Mainstream” vouchers (for non-elderly disabled) and reasonable accommodations in all housing. HUD fair housing info: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp
• Alpha One can advise on home modifications and assistive technology: https://alphaonenow.org
• Maine DHHS Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) can connect you with in-home supports that help you remain safely housed: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads

Tip: Put requests in writing when asking for reasonable accommodations (e.g., first-floor unit, grab bars). Keep copies.

Tribal Members (Wabanaki Nations)

Many tribal housing departments provide rental assistance, home repair help, and housing counseling for members. Contact:

• Penobscot Nation Housing: https://www.penobscotnation.org/government/housing
• Passamaquoddy Tribe Housing Authorities (Pleasant Point and Indian Township): https://www.passamaquoddy.com (navigate to Housing); Indian Township Tribal Government: https://www.indiantownship.com
• Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians Housing: https://www.maliseets.net (search Housing)
• Aroostook Band of Micmacs Housing: https://www.micmac-nsn.gov (search Housing)

Also check USDA rural housing and MaineHousing programs—tribal members can often use both tribal and state/federal resources.

Rural Seniors and Families

• Much of Maine is USDA-eligible for rural housing programs. Start with USDA 504 grants if you are 62+ and need critical repairs: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Use your Community Action Agency for LIHEAP and Weatherization. Rural homes can see big savings from insulation and heating system tune-ups.
• Transportation can make housing hard. Ask your AAA about ride programs or volunteer driver networks for appointments and inspections.

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Resources by Region (Housing Authorities, Community Action, and More)

Table 5. Who to call where you live (selected contacts and directories)

Statewide directories:

• MaineHousing rental programs (vouchers, public housing, subsidized housing): https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/rental/rental
• Search affordable apartments (HUD resource): https://resources.hud.gov
• MaineHousingSearch (apartment search portal for many Maine properties): https://www.mainehousingsearch.org

Note: Not every local office is listed here. If you don’t see your town, use the MaineHousing rental page or call 211 for the right office.

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Know Your Rights (Fair Housing & Tenant Protections)

• Fair housing laws protect you from discrimination based on age (over 40), disability, race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), and more. If you think you were treated unfairly in housing:
  • File with the Maine Human Rights Commission: https://www.maine.gov/mhrc
  • You can also file with HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/online-complaint
• Eviction basics in Maine (notice, court, timeline) and defenses:
  • Pine Tree Legal Assistance guides: https://ptla.org/housing

Tip: If your landlord refuses reasonable disability accommodations (like grab bars or a first-floor unit), document your request in writing and seek help from Pine Tree Legal or HUD FHEO.

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Waitlists are normal. Apply to several places, including rural areas with more openings.
• Never pay a “broker” or “application” fee that isn’t listed on an official property or housing authority website. Scammers target seniors.
• Keep your phone voicemail set up and not full—missed calls can mean lost housing offers.
• For home repairs, don’t start work before your grant is approved. Doing work first can make you ineligible.
• If money is tight this month, go to your town’s General Assistance office. It’s there for last-resort help with rent, utilities, and basics.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m 70 and own my home but need a new roof. Where do I start?
A: Call your local Community Action Agency and ask about MaineHousing’s Home Repair Network. If you’re in a rural area and low income, ask about USDA Section 504 grants (for 62+). Links: MaineHousing Home Repair: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/home-repair; USDA 504: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants

Q: Can I get help with a ramp and bathroom grab bars?
A: Yes—these are common accessibility projects under MaineHousing Home Repair programs and sometimes through Alpha One. Ask about wait times and documentation needed (doctor’s note may help). Alpha One: https://alphaonenow.org

Q: My rent just went up and I can’t afford it. Is there emergency rent help?
A: Town General Assistance may help with back rent or move-in costs in a crisis. Some nonprofits also help seasonally. Apply as soon as possible: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/general-assistance

Q: I’m on Social Security only. Do I qualify for LIHEAP?
A: Many seniors on fixed incomes qualify. Income limits change each year. Apply through your Community Action Agency: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/homeenergyassistanceprogram-liheap

Q: Is there still a program to freeze my property taxes?
A: No. The “stabilization” program was repealed in 2023. Instead, use the Homestead Exemption, Property Tax Fairness Credit, and ask your town about the Senior Property Tax Deferral program. Details: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs

Q: Are there senior-only apartment buildings?
A: Yes. Search HUD-subsidized elderly/disabled properties and apply to multiple buildings: https://resources.hud.gov. Some local housing authorities also manage senior-designated buildings.

Q: My landlord is not fixing a serious problem (no heat, unsafe wiring). What can I do?
A: Document the issue, notify your landlord in writing, and contact your town code office. For legal help and repair rights, see Pine Tree Legal Assistance: https://ptla.org/housing

Q: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended. Is there any help for internet/phone?
A: The federal Lifeline program still offers a monthly discount for phone/internet for eligible households. Learn more here: https://www.lifelinesupport.org. Some local providers also offer senior discounts—ask your provider.

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Resources (continued)

• Veterans’ Exemptions (property tax): https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-benefits-programs/property-tax-exemptions/veterans-exemption
• Maine Public Utilities Commission – Low-Income Energy Programs (AMP, LIAP, shutoff protections): https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/regulated-utilities/electricity/low-income-assistance-programs
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Tenant Rights and Eviction Help: https://ptla.org/housing
• Maine Human Rights Commission – File a Housing Discrimination Complaint: https://www.maine.gov/mhrc
• Area Agencies on Aging – Find Your Local AAA: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/aging-and-disability/area-agencies-on-aging
• 211 Maine – 24/7 Housing, Shelter, and Basic Needs Referrals: https://211maine.org
• U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts – Maine (population and aging stats): https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ME

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Data Note

Maine continues to rank among the oldest states by median age and share of residents 65+, which affects housing demand and waitlists. For current figures, see the U.S. Census Bureau’s QuickFacts for Maine: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ME

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Application Checklist

Bring copies (or clear photos) of:

• Government-issued photo ID and Social Security card
• Proof of income (SSA/SSI/SSDI, pension, wages), last 30–60 days if applicable
• Recent bank statements
• Lease or mortgage statement
• Utility bills and fuel vendor account info (for LIHEAP/utility programs)
• Property tax bill and parcel info (for exemptions/credits)
• Medical documentation if requesting disability-related accommodations/modifications

Tip: Keep a folder (paper or digital). Ask your Area Agency on Aging to review your documents before submission.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always confirm details, amounts, and deadlines with the official agency or program website linked in this guide before you apply. GrantsForSeniors.org is an informational resource; we are not a government agency and do not process applications.

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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.