Housing Assistance for Seniors in Michigan
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If You Need Emergency Help
If you are in danger, call 911.
If you are facing an eviction, utility shutoff, homelessness, or you need a safe place tonight, use the options below right now:
- Call 2‑1‑1 or visit Michigan 2‑1‑1 for 24/7 local referrals (shelter, rent help, utilities, food).
- Contact your county’s Housing Assessment and Resource Agency (HARA) for homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing. Find your HARA on the MSHDA HARA directory.
- Apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) for eviction prevention, security deposits, or energy help through MDHHS State Emergency Relief.
- Call the VA if you’re a veteran at risk of homelessness: 877‑4AID‑VET (877‑424‑3838) or visit VA Homeless Programs.
- Report abuse or neglect: MDHHS Adult Protective Services (855‑444‑3911, 24/7).
- For fair housing violations (discrimination): Michigan Department of Civil Rights or HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.
Table: Immediate Help at a Glance
| Situation | Who to Contact | What You Can Get |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction notice or homelessness risk | MDHHS SER, HARA directory | One-time rent help, security deposit, case management |
| No heat or lights | MDHHS SER, Home Heating Credit | Utility payment help, shutoff protection |
| Need shelter tonight | Michigan 2‑1‑1 | Shelter bed or hotel voucher (if available) |
| Veteran in crisis | VA Homeless Programs, MVAA | HUD‑VASH, SSVF, emergency housing |
| Abuse/neglect | Adult Protective Services | Protection and referrals |
Key Takeaways
- Most rental and homeowner help in Michigan runs through MDHHS, MSHDA, and local partners. Start with Michigan 2‑1‑1 and the MSHDA HARA directory.
- For renters, the biggest supports are Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), project-based senior apartments, and homelessness prevention through HARAs.
- For homeowners, focus on the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit, poverty exemptions (local Boards of Review; Detroit’s HOPE exemption), Home Heating Credit, and USDA Section 504 home repair grants/loans for rural seniors.
- Help exists, but waitlists are common. Apply early, gather documents, and keep copies. Reapply or check back when lists reopen.
- Use official sources to verify deadlines and amounts. Program rules and funding change.
How Housing Help Works in Michigan
Michigan’s help comes from three levels:
- Federal (HUD, USDA, VA)
- State (MSHDA and MDHHS)
- Local (Area Agencies on Aging, Community Action Agencies, cities, counties, and nonprofits)
Reality check:
- Vouchers and affordable units are limited. Waitlists can be long.
- Emergency help is usually short-term and document-heavy.
- You often must apply through the right local entry point (HARA, AAA, or your city/county office). Calling 2‑1‑1 can save time.
Tip:
- Keep a “housing folder” with your ID, Social Security card, income proof, bank statements, lease/mortgage, and utility bills. You will be asked for them repeatedly.
Rental Assistance for Seniors
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
- What it is: A federal program that pays part of your rent based on your income.
- Who runs it: Statewide through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs).
- How it helps: You pay about 30% of your income toward rent; the voucher covers the rest up to a limit.
How to apply:
- Check openings and get instructions on the MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher program page.
- Also contact your local PHA from HUD’s Michigan PHA contact list.
- If lists are closed, sign up for alerts and check back. Many PHAs open for a few days and use a lottery.
Finding an apartment:
- Use HUD’s Resource Locator to find subsidized housing and senior buildings.
- Michigan also maintains property listings and links through MSHDA’s Rental Assistance page.
Reality check:
- Vouchers do not guarantee a unit. Landlords must accept them and the unit must pass inspection. Start searching right after you get on a list, and ask for help from a HARA or housing counselor if needed.
Project-Based Section 8 and Section 202 (Senior Buildings)
- What it is: Apartments where the subsidy is tied to the unit (you apply to the property). Section 202 is HUD housing specifically for older adults with supportive services.
- How to find units: Use the HUD Resource Locator and filter for elderly/disabled housing. Ask to be put on the property’s waitlist.
Tip:
- Call properties every 60–90 days to keep your application active if they require check-ins.
Public Housing for Seniors
- Some PHAs operate elderly-only public housing. Contact the PHA where you want to live using HUD’s Michigan PHA directory.
Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing
- Michigan uses local Housing Assessment and Resource Agencies (HARAs) as the gateway for homelessness prevention and rehousing.
- Start here: MSHDA HARA directory.
- You can also contact the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness for system navigation.
Services may include:
- Eviction prevention payments
- Security deposits and short-term rent help
- Case management and housing search help
Utility Help for Renters
- State Emergency Relief (SER): Apply via MDHHS SER.
- Home Heating Credit (state income tax credit): Michigan Home Heating Credit.
- Weatherization (free energy upgrades): MDHHS Weatherization Assistance Program.
- Utility company programs: Consumers Energy assistance, DTE Energy assistance.
Table: Key Rental Programs for Seniors
| Program | Who Runs It | What It Covers | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | MSHDA & PHAs | Ongoing rent subsidy | Apply when lists open; monitor PHA pages |
| Project-Based Section 8 / Section 202 | HUD-funded properties | Rent tied to unit; senior buildings | Search properties via HUD Resource Locator |
| Public Housing (Elderly) | Local PHAs | Income-based rent | Contact PHAs from HUD PHA list |
| Homelessness Prevention/RRH | HARAs (MSHDA-funded) | Eviction prevention, deposits, short-term rent | Find your HARA |
| Utilities/Energy | MDHHS/Utilities | Shutoff protection, heating credits, energy upgrades | SER, HHC, WAP |
Homeowner Assistance for Seniors
Property Tax Relief (Statewide)
- Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit: Refundable credit on your state income tax based on your household resources and property taxes/rent paid. Details and forms: Michigan Treasury – Homestead Property Tax Credit.
- Poverty Exemption (local Boards of Review): Reduces or eliminates property taxes for low-income homeowners under MCL 211.7u. Apply through your city/township assessor. Detroit’s version is the HOPE exemption. State guidance: consult your local assessor; overview via Michigan Treasury property tax resources.
- Detroit Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE): Full or partial property tax exemption for income‑eligible Detroit homeowners. Apply via the city: Detroit HOPE exemption.
- Summer Property Tax Deferment: Seniors with limited income can defer summer taxes to the winter due date. See eligibility and Form 471 at Michigan Treasury – Property Tax Deferment.
- Home Heating Credit (HHC): State tax credit that can be claimed even if you don’t file a full return. Learn more: Michigan Home Heating Credit.
Reality check:
- Local poverty exemptions and deferments are not automatic. Deadlines and income limits vary by locality. Ask your assessor for the local policy and required documents.
Table: Property Tax Relief Options for Michigan Homeowners 60+
| Program | Who Qualifies (Basics) | What It Does | Where to Learn/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead Property Tax Credit | Income-eligible homeowners/renters | Refundable state tax credit | Michigan Treasury – Homestead Credit |
| Poverty Exemption (MCL 211.7u) | Low-income homeowners | Reduces/eliminates property tax | Your local assessor; Detroit: HOPE exemption |
| Summer Tax Deferment | Seniors with limited income | Defers summer taxes | Property Tax Deferment |
| Home Heating Credit | Income-eligible households | Credit toward heating costs | Home Heating Credit |
Mortgage Help and Foreclosure Prevention
- Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF): Pandemic-era program administered by MSHDA. As of 2024, many states closed HAF to new applications due to funding limits. Check current status here: MSHDA MIHAF.
- Foreclosure Counseling: Get free help from HUD-approved counselors (budgeting, loan workout options). Find counselors via HUD Housing Counseling Agency Search or MSHDA Housing Counseling.
Tip:
- Contact your servicer at the first sign of trouble and keep notes of every call.
- Never pay upfront fees to a “rescuer.” Verify any assistance with HUD or MSHDA.
Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural)
- What it is: Loans up to 40,000andgrantsupto40,000 and grants up to 10,000 for very low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas. Grants are for seniors 62+ to remove health/safety hazards.
- Where to apply: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504).
- Reality check: Funding is limited and first-come, first-served. The home must be in a USDA-eligible rural area; check eligibility on the program page.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
- What it is: Free energy-saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing, furnace repair/replacement in some cases).
- Who runs it: MDHHS with local Community Action Agencies.
- Apply: MDHHS Weatherization Assistance.
Area Agencies on Aging (Home Modifications)
- Through Medicaid MI Choice Waiver or other aging programs, seniors may get help with ramps, grab bars, and minor repairs that improve safety.
- Find your AAA via MDHHS: Area Agencies on Aging in Michigan.
City and Local Programs (Examples)
- Detroit: The city coordinates multiple repair resources, including Renew Detroit and partner programs. See the official page: Detroit Home Repair Resources.
- Habitat for Humanity (critical home repair): Contact your local affiliate through Habitat for Humanity of Michigan – Find Your Local Habitat.
- Grand Rapids/Kent County: Nonprofit options such as Home Repair Services of Kent County assist low-income homeowners. See: Home Repair Services (Kent County) for current offerings.
Table: Home Repair and Accessibility Programs
| Program | Who It Helps | Typical Assistance | How to Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA Section 504 | Rural, very low-income homeowners; grants 62+ | Health/safety repairs (roof, electrical, accessibility) | USDA Section 504 |
| Weatherization Assistance (WAP) | Income-eligible households | Insulation, air sealing, furnace work | MDHHS Weatherization |
| AAA/MI Choice | Seniors needing to age in place | Ramps, grab bars, home safety mods (when eligible) | Find your AAA |
| Detroit Home Repair | Detroit low-income homeowners | City-coordinated repair/ARPA initiatives | Detroit Home Repair Resources |
| Habitat Critical Repair | Low-income homeowners | Roofs, accessibility, safety | Find local Habitat |
Energy and Utility Support
- State Emergency Relief (SER): One-time help to prevent shutoff or restore service. Apply at MDHHS SER.
- Home Heating Credit (HHC): Claim through state tax process even if you don’t file a full return. Info: Home Heating Credit.
- Weatherization: MDHHS Weatherization Assistance.
- Utility company programs: Consumers Energy assistance and DTE Energy assistance.
Tip:
- Ask your utility about medical protection, senior shutoff protections, budget billing, and arrearage forgiveness programs.
Long-Term Care and Supportive Housing
- MI Choice Waiver (Medicaid HCBS): Lets eligible seniors receive services at home instead of a nursing home. Learn more: MI Choice Waiver Program.
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Team-based care to help you remain at home and in the community. See: MDHHS PACE.
- Licensed facilities: Michigan regulates Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Homes for the Aged (HFA). Verify a facility’s license at the state’s LTC Facilities Search.
Reality check:
- Medicaid coverage and waitlists vary by county. Contact your AAA or MDHHS for current availability and assessments.
Finding Affordable Senior Apartments
- Start with HUD’s Resource Locator and filter for “Elderly.”
- Check PHAs that manage elderly public housing: HUD PHA contacts – Michigan.
- Ask your AAA for a list of senior buildings and service coordinators in your area: Michigan AAAs.
Tip:
- Many buildings keep separate lists for studios and one-bedrooms. Apply to both if you can.
Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Housing rights: Sexual orientation and gender identity are protected under Michigan civil rights law and HUD policy. If you face discrimination, contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or HUD FHEO.
- Support and navigation: SAGE Metro Detroit and Affirmations (Ferndale) can connect you to inclusive services and housing referrals.
Veteran Seniors
- HUD‑VASH vouchers combine rental assistance with VA case management. Ask your VA social worker or see HUD‑VASH.
- SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) offers eviction prevention and rapid rehousing. Learn more: VA SSVF.
- State support: The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (800‑MICH‑VET) connects veterans to housing, benefits, and county VSOs.
Seniors with Disabilities
- Home and community supports: MI Choice Waiver and PACE.
- Disability Networks (Centers for Independent Living) can assist with housing advocacy and accessibility: Disability Network Michigan.
- Assistive technology: The Michigan Assistive Technology Program lists device loan and demonstration programs.
Tribal-Specific Resources
- Tribal housing authorities may offer elder housing, rental help, and repairs funded by HUD’s Indian Housing Block Grant.
- Contact your tribe’s housing authority or HUD’s Eastern Woodlands Office of Native American Programs.
- BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP) can help eligible members with repairs/replacement housing: BIA HIP.
- Examples of Michigan tribal housing contacts:
Rural Seniors
- For repairs: USDA Section 504 Home Repair.
- For affordable rentals: Search USDA rural properties at USDA Multi-Family Rental Search.
- For energy: Weatherization Assistance and SER.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Get your documents together
- Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pensions, pay stubs), bank statements, lease/mortgage, recent utility bill, proof of hardship (eviction notice, shutoff notice).
- Find your entry point
- Rental help/homelessness: HARA directory or Michigan 2‑1‑1.
- Utility help: MDHHS SER and your utility’s assistance page.
- Property tax: Your city/township assessor; statewide credits at Michigan Treasury.
- Apply and follow up
- Keep copies of applications and submission receipts.
- If denied, ask for the reason in writing and how to appeal or provide missing documents.
- Protect your rights
Table: Who to Contact for Common Needs
| Need | First Contact | Backup/More Help |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction prevention | HARA directory | MDHHS SER, Legal Help |
| Property tax break | Local assessor | Treasury – Homestead Credit, Detroit HOPE |
| Utility shutoff | MDHHS SER | Your utility’s assistance page |
| Home repairs | USDA 504, Weatherization | Local AAA and Habitat |
| Senior apartments | HUD Resource Locator | Local PHAs; AAA lists |
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Waitlists are normal: Apply to multiple buildings and PHAs. Keep your contact info updated.
- Scams exist: Do not pay anyone to “guarantee” a voucher or jump a waitlist. Verify with MSHDA or HUD.
- Deadlines matter: Poverty exemptions, tax credits, and deferments have fixed annual deadlines. Put reminders on your calendar.
- Accessibility helps approvals: For repair grants, focus on health/safety and accessibility needs (ramps, grab bars, roofs, electrical hazards).
- Keep paperwork organized: A simple folder or binder reduces processing delays.
Resources by Region (Selected)
- Detroit/Wayne County
- Oakland, Macomb, St. Clair, Livingston, Washtenaw, Monroe
- Grand Rapids / Kent County
- Lansing / Ingham, Eaton, Clinton
- Flint / Genesee
- Ann Arbor / Washtenaw
- Kalamazoo / Kalamazoo County
- Region 3A Area Agency on Aging (verify local AAA via state list)
- Upper Peninsula (e.g., Marquette, Houghton, Sault Ste. Marie)
- UPCAP – Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress
- Tribal housing authorities as applicable (see Tribal section above)
For the most current local contacts, always check the state’s Area Agencies on Aging directory and the MSHDA HARA directory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if I qualify for a Housing Choice Voucher?
- Generally, your household income must be under HUD limits for your county and household size. Seniors and people with disabilities often have preferences, but not always. Check income limits and application rules with your PHA via the HUD PHA contact list and MSHDA HCV page.
Q2: Are there senior-only buildings in Michigan?
- Yes. Many HUD-subsidized properties and Section 202 buildings are reserved for older adults. Search with the HUD Resource Locator and filter for “Elderly.”
Q3: Can I get help with my property taxes if I’m on a fixed income?
- You may qualify for the Homestead Property Tax Credit and your local poverty exemption (Detroit’s HOPE exemption is the city’s program). See Michigan Treasury – Homestead Credit and Detroit HOPE.
Q4: I live in a rural area. Is there help to fix my roof?
- Check the USDA Section 504 program. Seniors 62+ may qualify for grants to fix health and safety hazards. Also apply for Weatherization for energy-related improvements.
Q5: What if I’m being evicted this month?
- Apply for MDHHS SER immediately and contact your local HARA. If you get court papers, seek help from Michigan Legal Help or your local legal aid office.
Q6: My utility shutoff is scheduled for next week. What can I do?
- Apply for SER and the Home Heating Credit. Call your utility’s assistance line to ask about protection plans and arrearage forgiveness programs.
Q7: Are there programs just for veterans?
- Yes. Contact the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (800‑MICH‑VET). Ask about HUD‑VASH (rental vouchers with VA support) and SSVF (eviction prevention and rapid rehousing).
Q8: How can I check if an assisted living or adult foster care home is licensed?
- Use the state’s official search: Michigan LTC Facilities Search.
Q9: I think a landlord discriminated against me. What are my options?
- You can file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and/or HUD FHEO. Keep copies of ads, emails, texts, and any notices.
Q10: COVID-era rent programs helped me before. Are they still available?
- Michigan’s large pandemic emergency rental programs have ended. Today, use SER, your local HARA, and utility programs.
Program Snapshot (Quick Reference Table)
| Topic | The Go-To Program | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| Vouchers (rent) | MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher | MSHDA HCV |
| Senior apartments | HUD Section 202 / Project-Based | HUD Resource Locator |
| Homelessness prevention | HARAs | Find your HARA |
| Eviction/utility crisis | State Emergency Relief (SER) | MDHHS SER |
| Home energy upgrades | Weatherization Assistance | MDHHS WAP |
| Rural home repair | USDA Section 504 | USDA 504 |
| Property tax relief | Homestead Credit (state) | Homestead Property Tax Credit |
| Detroit tax exemption | HOPE | Detroit HOPE |
| Aging services | Area Agencies on Aging | Find your AAA |
Sources and Official References
- Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA): Rental Programs | HARA Directory
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS): State Emergency Relief | Weatherization Assistance | Adult Protective Services
- Michigan Department of Treasury: Homestead Property Tax Credit | Home Heating Credit | Property Tax Deferment
- HUD: Resource Locator | PHA Contacts – Michigan | Fair Housing
- USDA: Section 504 Home Repair | USDA Rental Search
- VA/Michigan veterans: HUD‑VASH | SSVF | Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency
- Detroit: Home Repair Resources | HOPE Property Tax Exemption
- Tribal: HUD ONAP – Eastern Woodlands | BIA HIP
- Aging services: Area Agencies on Aging (Michigan)
- Legal help: Michigan Legal Help
Disclaimer
Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always confirm details, deadlines, and application steps with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for information only and is not legal or financial advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- Next Review: May 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
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