Housing Assistance for Seniors in Massachusetts

Last updated: August 19, 2025

This is your up-to-date, plain‑English guide to rental help, home repairs, energy savings, legal protections, and where to apply—built for Massachusetts seniors and their caregivers. All links go to official state, federal, or well‑established nonprofit resources.

Key Takeaways

• Start with your regional Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC). They are the front door for rental help like RAFT and can point you to other programs. Use the “Find your HCEC” tool on Mass.gov.
• Apply to multiple options at once: state public housing (CHAMP), Section 8, and local senior (elderly/disabled) housing. Waitlists are long—casting a wide net matters.
• For home repairs and accessibility changes, look first at USDA Section 504 (grants for 62+), the state Home Modification Loan Program (0% deferred loans), and Weatherization (free energy upgrades).
• If you’re facing eviction or foreclosure, act fast. Free legal help and Housing Court “Lawyer for the Day” programs can make a real difference.
• Beware of scams. You never have to pay to apply for public housing, Section 8, RAFT, LIHEAP, or Weatherization.

If You Need Emergency Help

If you are unsafe tonight, facing a utility shutoff, or about to be displaced, use the contacts below immediately.

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How Massachusetts Housing Help Works (in brief)

• State programs are managed by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and delivered locally by Housing Authorities and HCECs.
• You typically qualify based on your income, household size, and immigration status (varies by program).
• For state public housing, apply once in CHAMP and select many Housing Authorities to join multiple waitlists at once.
• For Section 8 (federal Housing Choice Vouchers), apply to multiple Housing Authorities and the statewide centralized waiting list when open.
• Keep copies of ID, Social Security card, income proof (award letters for Social Security/SSI/SSDI), bank statements, lease, and utility bills. You’ll need them repeatedly.

Reality check: Waiting lists are often long (months to years). Apply broadly, update your applications annually, and don’t miss mailed requests for updates—people lose their spot that way.

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Rental Assistance Options for Seniors

1) State Public Housing (Elderly/Disabled)

• What it is: Subsidized apartments for seniors (usually 60+ or 62+, depending on local policy) and adults with disabilities.
• How rent works: Typically 30% of adjusted monthly income.
• How to apply: Use the state’s CHAMP application to join multiple local Housing Authority lists at once.

Apply: Apply for state‑aided public housing (CHAMP)
Find your local Housing Authority: Directory of Local Housing Authorities

Tips

• Select many locations in CHAMP to improve your odds.
• Update your application at least once a year or when you move.

2) Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)

• What it is: A federal voucher you can use with private landlords who accept it.
• How rent works: You generally pay ~30% of your adjusted income; the voucher covers the rest up to a local limit.
• How to apply: Apply through Housing Authorities when they open their waitlists. Many use a centralized list.

Learn more: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (Mass.gov)
Centralized waiting list info: MA Section 8 Centralized Waiting List

Reality check: Section 8 waitlists can be closed or very long. Apply whenever a list opens—even if it’s outside your town.

3) Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)

• What it is: A state voucher program similar to Section 8, with mobile and project‑based vouchers.
• Who qualifies: Low‑income households, including seniors.
• How to apply: Through your local Housing Authority or when DHCD opens application windows.

Details: Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)

4) RAFT: Emergency Rent/Utility Help

• What it is: Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) helps eligible households with back rent, utility arrears, and related housing costs to prevent homelessness.
• Who applies: Individuals and families—seniors living alone can apply.
• How to apply: Through your regional HCEC.

Apply or learn more: RAFT on Mass.gov
Find your HCEC: HCECs on Mass.gov

Note: Funding levels and caps can change during the year. Check the RAFT page for current limits and required documents.

5) Project‑Based Section 8 and Other Subsidized Senior Housing

• What it is: Subsidized apartments where assistance is tied to the unit (not a portable voucher).
• How to search:
  • Statewide listings: Housing Navigator Massachusetts
  • HUD properties: HUD Resource Locator

Accessibility search: MassAccess Accessible Housing information (CHAPA)

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Rental Help Summary Table

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Energy, Heat, and Utility Savings

LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance)

• What it is: Help with home heating bills during the heating season. May include utility shutoff protections.
• Who qualifies: Income‑eligible households; amounts vary each year.
• How to apply: Through your local fuel assistance agency.

Apply: LIHEAP – Apply for Home Energy Assistance

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it is: Free energy‑saving upgrades like insulation and air sealing to cut your bills and make your home more comfortable.
• Who qualifies: Income‑eligible homeowners and renters (with permission).
• How to apply: Through local community action agencies.

Apply: Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Mass Save HEAT Loan and Rebates

• What it is: 0% interest financing for energy‑efficient heating, cooling, insulation, and more, plus rebates.
• Who qualifies: Homeowners who complete a no‑cost Home Energy Assessment with Mass Save.
• How to apply: Schedule an assessment; get contractor proposals; apply with a participating lender.

Start here: Mass Save HEAT Loan

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Energy & Utility Help Quick‑Look

Reality check: LIHEAP opens annually and funds can run tight. Apply early in the season and respond quickly to document requests.

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Home Repair and Accessibility Programs

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Aging‑Focused)

• What it is: For very‑low‑income rural homeowners.
  • Grants up to $10,000 for seniors 62+ to remove health/safety hazards.
  • Loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest for up to 20 years.
• Important: If you sell the home within 3 years of receiving a grant, you may have to repay the grant.

Learn more and apply:
National program page: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants
Find the Massachusetts office: USDA Rural Development Massachusetts

Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) – Massachusetts

• What it is: State 0% interest, deferred payment loans to make homes accessible (ramps, accessible baths, door widening, stairlifts, etc.). No monthly payments; typically repaid when the home is sold or transferred.
• Who qualifies: Seniors and people with disabilities; homeowners and sometimes landlords with an eligible tenant.
• How to apply: Through regional HMLP providers.

Program details and current limits: Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP)

Weatherization and Energy‑Related Repairs

• Weatherization (see above) may include minor health and safety fixes connected to energy work.
• If your heating system is unsafe, ask your LIHEAP/WAP agency about emergency replacement options.

MassHousing Home Improvement Loans

• What it is: Fixed‑rate home improvement loans through MassHousing for eligible homeowners to complete necessary repairs.
• Who qualifies: Income and property limits apply.
• Learn more: MassHousing Home Improvement Loans

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Local Rehab Programs

• What it is: Some cities and towns offer low‑ or no‑interest loans or grants for repairs to low‑income owner‑occupied homes using HUD CDBG funds.
• How to find: Check your city or town’s community development or housing office website, or call Town Hall.

About CDBG: HUD Community Development Block Grant Program

Habitat for Humanity and NeighborWorks

• Habitat offers critical home repairs and accessibility modifications for qualifying low‑income homeowners in some areas.
• NeighborWorks organizations may offer emergency repairs or rehab assistance in certain regions.

Find affiliates: Habitat for Humanity in Massachusetts
Example organization: NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (Southeastern MA)

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Home Repair & Accessibility Programs at a Glance

Tip: If stairs are a barrier, list the top three accessibility needs (for example: ramp, stairlift, bathroom grab bars) and bring them to HMLP or USDA—having a clear plan speeds approvals.

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Property Tax Relief That Can Help You Stay Housed

• Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit: State income tax credit for many homeowners and renters 65+. If your property taxes or 25% of rent exceed a set share of your income, you may qualify. Amounts and limits change yearly.
  Learn more: Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit (Mass.gov)
• Local Property Tax Exemptions and Deferrals: Many cities and towns offer senior exemptions (Clause 41C), tax deferrals (Clause 41A), and work‑off programs.
  Overview: Elderly and Veterans’ Property Tax Relief (Mass.gov)
  Ask your local Assessor’s Office for forms and deadlines.

Reality check: Deferrals reduce cash strain now but create a lien on your home. Review interest rates and talk with family or a trusted advisor before you sign.

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Reverse Mortgages & Required Counseling

• In Massachusetts (and nationwide for FHA HECM loans), counseling with a HUD‑approved housing counselor is required before you can get a reverse mortgage. This protects you by explaining costs, tax/benefit impacts, and alternatives.
• Massachusetts also has specific counseling rules under the Division of Banks.

Find a HUD‑approved counselor: HUD Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Counseling
MA regulation reference: Division of Banks – Reverse Mortgage Counseling

Reality check: Reverse mortgages can help some homeowners age in place, but fees and insurance costs can be high. Compare with HMLP or a downsizing plan before you decide.

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Legal Help: Eviction, Foreclosure, and Tenant Rights

Act quickly if you receive a Notice to Quit, Summary Process Summons, or default letter from your mortgage servicer.

Tip: Bring all papers to court. Ask the clerk where to find the Lawyer for the Day table. Show up early.

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Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources

Veteran seniors

• Chapter 115 Benefits: Monthly assistance for low‑income veterans and surviving spouses, which can help with rent and utilities. Apply through your local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO).
  Learn more: Chapter 115 Benefits • Find your VSO
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Short‑term help to prevent or end homelessness, including rent/utility assistance and case management.
  Program page: VA SSVF
• VA housing supports: Ask your VSO about HUD‑VASH (voucher plus case management) and other VA housing options.

Disabled seniors

• Accessible housing search: MassAccess Accessible Housing information (CHAPA)
• Home modifications: HMLP (Mass.gov)
• Assistive technology and services: Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)

Note: The Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP) serves non‑elderly disabled adults. Seniors with disabilities typically qualify under elderly/disabled public housing and other programs. Ask your HCEC which fits your situation.

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Fair housing protections in MA include sexual orientation and gender identity. If you face discrimination, contact MCAD.
  File or learn more: Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
• Housing search support: LGBTQ‑friendly senior housing may be listed on Housing Navigator Massachusetts. Filter for senior and affordable properties and contact managers for openings and waitlist info.

Tribal members (living in or with ties to Massachusetts)

• There are federally recognized tribes in Massachusetts. If you are a tribal citizen, check with your tribal housing department first about housing help and home repair programs.
• Federal programs for eligible tribal members may include the BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP) and HUD tribal housing resources.

Learn more:
BIA HIP: Housing Improvement Program (BIA)
HUD Office of Native American Programs (Eastern/Woodlands): HUD ONAP Eastern/Woodlands

Tip: If you don’t know who to contact, your tribe’s administration office can connect you to housing staff. Bring your tribal enrollment information when you inquire.

Rural seniors

• Start with USDA Rural Development for Section 504 repair grants/loans and other rural housing assistance.
  State office: USDA Rural Development Massachusetts
• Transportation and contractor access can slow repairs. Ask USDA or HMLP about approved contractors in your area and whether virtual inspections are allowed when needed.

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Where to Apply: By Region and Role

Use these statewide directories to get to the right local office quickly:

• Find your Housing Consumer Education Center (RAFT and housing help): HCECs on Mass.gov
• Find your Local Housing Authority (Public Housing, Section 8): LHA Directory
• Find your Area Agency on Aging/ASAP (home care, caregiver help, options counseling): MassOptions or call 1‑844‑422‑6277
• Search affordable and senior housing listings: Housing Navigator Massachusetts

Examples of regional hubs (check websites for service areas and programs):

• Greater Boston: Metro Housing|Boston (HCEC/RAFT), Boston Housing Authority
• Central MA: RCAP Solutions (HCEC), Worcester Housing Authority
• Western MA: Way Finders (HCEC), Springfield Housing Authority
• Merrimack Valley/Lowell: Community Teamwork (HCEC), Lowell Housing Authority
• South Shore/Southeastern MA: Housing Solutions for Southeastern Massachusetts (HCEC), Brockton Housing Authority
• Cape & Islands: Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC), Barnstable Housing Authority
• Berkshires: Berkshire Housing Development Corporation, Pittsfield Housing Authority

Note: Names and coverage areas can change—if a link doesn’t match your town, use the Mass.gov directories above.

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How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step

1. Get your documents together

• Photo ID; Social Security card
• Proof of income (Social Security/SSI/SSDI award letters, pensions)
• Recent bank statements
• Lease and any notices from your landlord; utility bills
• Proof of disability (if applying for accessibility programs)

2. Apply to multiple programs at once

• CHAMP (state public housing) and local Housing Authorities for Section 8/MRVP
• RAFT through your HCEC if you’re behind on rent/utilities
• LIHEAP and Weatherization for energy cost relief
• HMLP or USDA 504 for accessibility/repairs

3. Reply quickly to any requests

• Missing documents stall or close cases. Ask for help if you can’t get a document in time.

4. Keep a simple “benefits folder”

• One paper folder or digital folder with application numbers, caseworker names, copies of everything you submit, and dates you called or emailed.

5. Protect yourself

• Never pay for an application. Use official sites linked in this guide.
• If an offer sounds too good to be true, call your HCEC or MassOptions to verify.

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Common Program Realities (So You’re Not Surprised)

• Waitlists are normal. Public housing and Section 8 can take months or years. Keep applying and updating.
• “Elderly/Disabled” public housing often has shorter waits than family housing.
• RAFT funds can pause or run low; check frequently and ask your HCEC about other stopgaps (payment plans, mediation).
• Repairs take time. Weatherization and HMLP rely on contractor schedules and inspections—start early.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I can’t pay this month’s rent. What should I do first?
A: Call your regional HCEC and ask about RAFT. Also talk to your landlord immediately about a payment plan. If you receive a Notice to Quit, contact legal aid and go to Housing Court if a case is filed.

• Find your HCEC: HCEC directory
• Legal help: MassLegalHelp Housing

Q: I live on Social Security. Do I make “too much” for help?
A: Many programs are designed for fixed incomes. Income limits vary by county and program. Check the program’s income limit and apply if you are close.

• HUD Income Limits lookup: HUD Income Limits

Q: Are there apartments just for seniors?
A: Yes. Apply to elderly/disabled public housing through CHAMP and search senior properties on Housing Navigator MA.

• Apply: CHAMP
• Search: Housing Navigator MA

Q: I need a ramp and bathroom changes to stay at home. Where do I start?
A: Look at HMLP (0% deferred loans) and USDA Section 504 (grants for 62+ and loans). If you get LIHEAP/WAP, ask about related safety fixes.

• HMLP
• USDA 504

Q: My heat is about to be shut off. Who can stop it?
A: Apply for LIHEAP right away and tell your utility you applied. Ask about arrearage management programs and medical protection if applicable.

• Apply for LIHEAP

Q: Do I have to move if I get Section 8?
A: Not necessarily. If your current unit passes inspection and the landlord agrees to the program terms, you may be able to stay.

Q: Is a reverse mortgage safe?
A: It can help some homeowners but has costs and risks. Counseling is required. Compare with downsizing or HMLP before deciding.

• HUD Reverse Mortgage Info

Q: I think my landlord is treating me differently because I’m gay/trans or because I use a wheelchair.
A: Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability is illegal in Massachusetts housing. Contact MCAD.

• File with MCAD

Q: I’m a veteran raising a grandchild. Where can I get help with rent?
A: Check Chapter 115 benefits through your VSO and ask your HCEC about RAFT.

• Find your VSO
• RAFT

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Program Finder Tables You Can Use

Quick Contacts for Seniors

Financial Tools That Reduce Housing Costs

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Resources (Official and Trusted)

• Apply for State Public Housing (CHAMP): Mass.gov CHAMP
• Section 8 HCV overview: Mass.gov HCV
• MRVP: Mass.gov MRVP
• RAFT: Mass.gov RAFT
• HCECs: Mass.gov HCECs
• LHA Directory: Mass.gov LHA Directory
• Housing search: Housing Navigator MA, HUD Resource Locator
• Accessible housing info: CHAPA MassAccess
• LIHEAP Fuel Assistance: Apply for LIHEAP
• Weatherization Assistance: Apply for WAP
• Mass Save HEAT Loan: Mass Save HEAT Loan
• HMLP: Home Modification Loan Program
• USDA Section 504: USDA 504 Program • USDA RD Massachusetts
• MassHousing Home Improvement: MassHousing HILP
• CDBG information: HUD CDBG
• Habitat for Humanity MA: Find affiliates

Legal & rights:

• MassLegalHelp (Housing): masslegalhelp.org/housing
• MLAC (find legal aid): mlac.org
• Housing Court Lawyer for the Day: Mass.gov program page
• Foreclosure prevention counseling: Mass.gov list
• MCAD (fair housing complaints): MCAD

Veterans & tribal:

• Chapter 115 & VSOs: Chapter 115 • Find your VSO
• VA SSVF: va.gov/homeless/ssvf
• BIA HIP: bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program
• HUD ONAP Eastern/Woodlands: hud.gov/codetalk/communities/easternwoodlands

Senior navigation:

• MassOptions: MassOptions • 1‑844‑422‑6277
• Mass 211: mass211.org • 2‑1‑1

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Disclaimer

Programs change. Funding levels, dollar caps, waitlist status, and eligibility rules can shift during the year. Always confirm details with the official agency or program link provided above before you apply or make 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.