Housing Assistance for Seniors in New Hampshire

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help

  • If you are in immediate danger or without a safe place tonight, call 911.
  • For shelter, emergency rental help, and Coordinated Entry to homelessness services, dial 211 or visit 211 New Hampshire. Available 24/7.
  • To find local aging help (benefits counseling, housing navigation, long-term care options), contact ServiceLink (NH’s Aging & Disability Resource Center). Use the office locator to find help in your county.
  • If you cannot pay rent or utilities and eviction or shutoff is close, also call your city or town welfare office. New Hampshire law (RSA 165) requires every municipality to offer general assistance. Start at your Town Hall website or call 211 for the correct number.

Key Takeaways

  • New Hampshire has very tight rental availability and high housing costs, so waitlists for discounts and apartments are common. Apply to multiple programs and ask for “preferences” you may qualify for (age, disability, veteran status, homelessness).
  • Start with three hubs that can screen you for several programs at once: ServiceLink, your local Community Action Agency (CAP), and New Hampshire Housing (NHHFA).
  • For renters: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, public/elderly housing, and utility help (LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance and the Electric Assistance Program) are core supports. Applying early matters.
  • For homeowners: look at property tax relief, the state elderly tax exemptions/deferral, weatherization, and the USDA 504 Home Repair Grants for people age 62+.
  • For assisted living or care at home: Medicaid’s Choices for Independence (CFI) waiver and the State Supplement Program can help pay for care in residential settings and at home if you qualify. Use ServiceLink to get screened.
  • Don’t assume you’re ineligible. Income and asset rules have exceptions, and benefits change yearly. Use the official links in this guide and verify current details before applying.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

  • Direct links to official applications and programs
  • Plain-language descriptions of what each program does and who qualifies
  • Reality checks about waitlists and documentation
  • Special notes for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, tribal members, and rural residents
  • Regional directories and “who to call”

Quick Program Finder

Program What it helps with Who it’s for Where to apply
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Ongoing rent subsidy in private apartments Low-income seniors and people with disabilities; preferences vary NHHFA Housing Choice Voucher and local housing authorities
Public/Elderly Housing Reduced-rent apartments owned/managed by housing authorities Low-income seniors (often 62+) Local housing authorities (see table below)
LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance Program) Heating help (oil, propane, electric, etc.) Income-eligible households NH Department of Energy – Fuel Assistance via local CAP
Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Monthly electric bill discount Income-eligible households NH Department of Energy – Electric Assistance via local CAP
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Home energy upgrades to reduce bills Income-eligible renters and homeowners NH Department of Energy – Weatherization via local CAP
USDA 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants Health/safety home repairs; grants for 62+ Low-income rural homeowners USDA Single Family Housing Repair (Section 504) + USDA NH State Office
Property Tax Relief: Low/Moderate Income Credit State property tax relief for eligible homeowners Income-eligible homeowners NH Dept. of Revenue – Low/Moderate Income Homeowners Relief
Elderly Exemption & Tax Deferral Local property tax reduction or deferral for elderly Age-eligible homeowners (income/asset limits vary by town) Apply at your Town Hall using Form PA-29; deferral statute: RSA 72:38-a
Medicaid Choices for Independence (CFI) Helps pay for care at home or in residential settings Medicaid-eligible seniors and adults with disabilities NH DHHS – Choices for Independence via NH EASY or ServiceLink
State Supplement Program (SSP) Monthly cash help (may offset room/board in licensed settings) Low-income aged, blind, disabled NH DHHS – State Supplement Program via NH EASY
Fair Housing Help Discrimination complaints and education All residents NH Commission for Human Rights and HUD New Hampshire

Note: Eligibility and funding change. Always confirm at the official link before you apply.

Why Housing Help Is Hard to Find in NH (and how to work around it)

New Hampshire’s rental market is tight, with very low vacancy and rising rents according to annual reports from New Hampshire Housing. That means:

  • Waitlists for vouchers and senior apartments can open briefly and close quickly.
  • If you only apply to one list, you may wait a long time.
  • You’ll need identity, income, and residency documents ready (see “How to Apply” below).

Workarounds:

  • Apply to multiple housing authorities and properties (public housing, Section 8, and Section 202 senior buildings).
  • Ask about preferences (age 62+, disability, veteran status, homelessness, or local residency) that might move you up a list.
  • Use ServiceLink and your local Community Action Agency to screen you for several programs at once.

Renters: Vouchers, Public/Elderly Housing, and Short-Term Help

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)

  • What it does: Helps pay rent in private apartments. You pay about 30% of your income; the voucher covers the rest (up to a local limit).
  • Who it’s for: Low-income households; seniors and people with disabilities often receive priority or special admissions when available.
  • Where to apply:
    • Statewide: New Hampshire Housing – HCV (check waitlist status and how to apply)
    • City housing authorities also run vouchers (see “Housing Authorities” table below).
  • Reality check: Waitlists open and close. Sign up for email alerts from NHHFA and check housing authority websites. If you have a disability, ask about reasonable accommodations during the search or lease-up process.
  • Source: U.S. HUD – HCV Program

Public Housing and Elderly/Disabled Housing

  • What it does: Reduced-rent apartments in buildings owned/managed by local housing authorities. Many towns have “elderly/disabled” buildings with services like elevators, community rooms, and onsite managers.
  • Who it’s for: Low-income seniors (often 62+) and people with disabilities.
  • Where to apply: Directly through the housing authority where you want to live. See the table below for links to major authorities.

Short-Term Rental Help and Homelessness Prevention

Utility and Energy Help (Keep the Lights and Heat On)

Energy costs are high in New Hampshire. Apply early each season.

Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

  • What it does: Helps pay heating bills (oil, propane, natural gas, electric heat, wood, pellets).
  • Who it’s for: Income-eligible households. You can rent or own.
  • How to apply: Through your local CAP agency. Start here: NH Department of Energy – Fuel Assistance Program.
  • Tip: Bring fuel delivery slips or utility bills, ID, and proof of income. Ask about emergency benefits if you are out of fuel.

Electric Assistance Program (EAP)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it does: Free energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, heating system tune-ups and safety checks) that can lower bills and improve comfort.
  • Who it’s for: Income-eligible renters and homeowners. Landlord consent is required for rentals.
  • Apply: Through CAP agencies. Program details: NH Department of Energy – Weatherization Assistance Program.

Disconnection Protections

Homeowners: Property Tax Relief, Repairs, and Modifications

State Property Tax Relief for Low/Moderate Income Homeowners

Elderly Exemption (Local) and Property Tax Deferral

  • Elderly Exemption: Towns and cities offer property tax exemptions by age group (for example, 65–74, 75–79, 80+), with income and asset limits set locally. Amounts and rules vary by municipality.
  • Property Tax Deferral: Some seniors can defer part or all of their property tax until the home is sold, per RSA 72:38-a.
  • How to apply: File at your Town Hall using the state’s Form PA-29 (Permanent Application for Property Tax Credits/Exemptions). Ask your assessing office for local rules and deadlines.
  • Reality check: Exemptions reduce taxes, but you must meet assets/income limits and reapply as your town requires. Deferral accrues interest.

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

  • What it does: Fixes health/safety hazards (e.g., roof leaks, electrical issues, accessibility ramps). Grants are for seniors 62+ who cannot repay a loan; loans are low-interest.
  • Where to apply: National program details at USDA Single Family Housing Repair (Section 504). For assistance and eligibility questions, contact the USDA New Hampshire State Office.
  • Tip: Improvements must address a health or safety need. Be ready to document ownership, income, and repair needs (photos, estimates).

Weatherization and Home Safety Upgrades

  • If you heat with oil, propane, or electric, you may qualify for Weatherization Assistance through your CAP. This can include insulation and minor safety repairs to your heating system.

Foreclosure Prevention and Housing Counseling

  • If you’re behind on your mortgage or taxes, contact New Hampshire Housing – Foreclosure Prevention for HUD-certified counseling.
  • Even if a previous Homeowner Assistance Fund is closed to new applications, counseling and mitigation options (loan modification, repayment plans, tax relief) may still be available.

Assisted Living, Residential Care, and Nursing Home Costs

Medicaid Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver

  • What it does: CFI helps eligible seniors and adults with disabilities get care at home or in certain residential settings, often delaying or avoiding nursing home placement.
  • Covered supports can include personal care, homemaker, case management, adult medical day, and sometimes help in licensed residential care settings.
  • Where to start: NH DHHS – Choices for Independence. Apply via NH EASY or call ServiceLink for a screening and help with the paperwork.
  • Reality check: Financial and functional eligibility apply and change periodically. Slots and provider availability can be limited in some regions.

State Supplement Program (SSP)

  • What it does: Monthly cash assistance to eligible aged, blind, or disabled individuals. SSP can help with room and board in certain licensed residential settings.
  • Apply: NH DHHS – State Supplement Program via NH EASY.

Nursing Home Medicaid

  • If 24/7 skilled care is needed, Medicaid can cover nursing facility costs if you meet income, assets, and medical need standards.
  • Rules change annually. Do not spend down or transfer assets without guidance. Contact ServiceLink or a qualified elder law attorney.
  • Apply: NH EASY. For eligibility standards, consult NH DHHS or your local ServiceLink office.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Housing Authorities (Elderly/Public Housing and Vouchers)

Apply to more than one to improve your chances.

Housing Authority Area Apply/Info
New Hampshire Housing (statewide program) Statewide NHHFA – Rental Assistance & Vouchers
Manchester Housing and Redevelopment Authority Manchester Manchester Housing Authority
Nashua Housing and Redevelopment Authority Nashua Nashua Housing Authority
Dover Housing Authority Dover Dover Housing Authority
Portsmouth Housing Authority Portsmouth Portsmouth Housing Authority
Concord Housing and Redevelopment Authority Concord Concord Housing Authority
Laconia Housing Laconia Laconia Housing
Keene Housing Keene Keene Housing

Tip: Ask each authority if they manage “elderly/disabled” buildings, have local preferences, or run Project-Based Voucher units where your subsidy is tied to a specific building.

Community Action Agencies (Apply for Fuel/Electric Assistance, Weatherization, and More)

New Hampshire’s CAP network is your entry point for LIHEAP, EAP, Weatherization, and other supports.

Community Action Agency Counties Served Website
Southern New Hampshire Services (includes Rockingham Community Action) Hillsborough, Rockingham snhs.org
Community Action Partnership of Strafford County Strafford strafcap.org
Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties, Inc. Belknap, Merrimack capnh.org (directory)
Southwestern Community Services Cheshire, Sullivan scshelps.org
Tri-County Community Action Program Carroll, Coos, Grafton tccap.org

Not sure which CAP is yours? Use the statewide directory: New Hampshire Community Action Partnership.

Property Tax Relief Options for Seniors (At a Glance)

Benefit What it does Who qualifies How to apply
Low/Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief Refunds part of the state education property tax Income-eligible homeowners (limits set by state; check each year) NH DRA – Low/Moderate Income Relief
Elderly Exemption (local) Reduces your property’s assessed value for tax purposes Age-based with income/asset limits set by your town File PA-29 at Town Hall (check local deadlines)
Property Tax Deferral (RSA 72:38-a) Lets eligible elderly homeowners defer tax payment until sale/transfer Age, equity, and other limits; interest accrues Apply at Town Hall; statute: RSA 72:38-a

Reality check: Exemptions and deferrals can’t be combined in every case and may affect eligibility for other programs. Ask the local assessing office to explain options before you pick one.

Utility Assistance Programs (Snapshot)

Program Helps with Where to start
LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance Heating bills and crisis help NH Dept. of Energy – Fuel Assistance via CAP
Electric Assistance Program Monthly electric bill discount NH Dept. of Energy – Electric Assistance via CAP
Weatherization Assistance Insulation, air sealing, heating system safety NH Dept. of Energy – Weatherization via CAP
Utility Consumer Help Shutoff protections, complaints, mediation NH Public Utilities Commission – Consumer Assistance

How to Apply (and Actually Get Through It)

What to gather:

  • Photo ID and Social Security numbers for household members
  • Proof of age (for senior-specific programs)
  • Proof of New Hampshire residency (lease, utility bill, or mortgage statement)
  • Income proof (Social Security award letter, pension, paystubs, SSI/SSDI, interest/dividend statements)
  • Asset proof (bank statements) when required (tax exemptions, Medicaid)
  • For homeowners: property tax bill, deed, and any repair estimates/photos

Tips:

  • Create a simple folder for “Housing & Benefits” and keep copies. Many programs ask for the same documents more than once.
  • If transportation is a barrier, ask for phone appointments, mail-in options, or help from a caseworker at ServiceLink or your CAP.
  • If you have a disability, you can ask for reasonable accommodations (extra time to respond, alternate formats).
  • Missed a deadline? Call and ask if you can submit late. Some programs allow good-cause exceptions.

Fair Housing, Tenants’ Rights, and Avoiding Scams

Inclusive Supports

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Veterans and Surviving Spouses

  • HUD-VASH vouchers combine rental assistance with VA case management. Start with the VA Manchester Medical Center: VA Manchester – HUD-VASH.
  • The State Office of Veterans Services can help with benefits and referrals: NH Office of Veterans Services.
  • Ask your town about local veteran property tax credits (apply via PA-29).

Seniors with Disabilities

  • Consider applying for both housing help and disability-related supports (SSDI/SSI, Medicaid, CFI, home modifications).
  • For living at home with support, start with ServiceLink to explore CFI, personal care, adult day, and respite. For accessible housing, ask housing authorities about ADA units and reasonable accommodations.
  • HUD’s Section 811 supports housing for people with disabilities; find properties via the HUD Resource Locator.

Tribal Members and Native Elders

  • New Hampshire does not have federally recognized tribes within the state, but enrolled members of federally recognized tribes living in NH may access tribal housing benefits through their tribe and federal agencies.
  • Check with your tribal housing office regarding the Indian Housing Block Grant or NAHASDA programs. HUD overview: HUD – Office of Native American Programs.
  • You can also use NH’s general programs (vouchers, CAP energy help, Medicaid CFI).

Rural Seniors and Families

  • USDA’s Section 504 Home Repair and CAP Weatherization are especially helpful in rural towns.
  • Transportation can be a barrier. Ask your CAP about local transit and volunteer driver programs, and request phone or mail-in application options when possible.

Resources by Region

Use these entries to find “front doors” to help in your area.

ServiceLink (Aging & Disability Resource Center)

  • Statewide office locator: ServiceLink – Find Your Office
  • Services: Benefits counseling, long-term care options, Medicaid/CFI guidance, caregiver help, housing navigation referrals.

Community Action (Fuel/Electric Help, Weatherization, Crisis Aid)

City/Town Welfare (Emergency Rent, Utilities)

  • Required in every municipality (RSA 165). Find yours via your Town Hall website or call 211 NH for the number.

Housing Authorities

See the table above. You can also search federally supported properties near you with the HUD Resource Locator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are there any “senior-only” apartments in New Hampshire?
A: Yes. Many housing authorities and nonprofit owners operate “elderly/disabled” buildings (often 62+). Apply through local housing authorities and check for HUD Section 202 senior properties using the HUD Resource Locator.

Q: How long is the wait for Section 8 or public housing?
A: It varies by area and funding. Waitlists in NH can be lengthy and may close at times. Apply to multiple lists (statewide via NHHFA and local housing authorities). Sign up for alerts and watch for short application windows.

Q: Can I get help with a security deposit?
A: Town welfare offices sometimes help with deposits in emergencies. Call your Town Hall or dial 211 NH for local policies. Some nonprofits also offer limited deposit help when funds are available.

Q: I’m 75 and own a home. My taxes are too high. What can I do?
A: Ask your Town Hall about the Elderly Exemption and Property Tax Deferral. Use Form PA-29. If your income is modest, check state Low/Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief.

Q: My furnace is unsafe. Is there help?
A: Yes. Apply for Weatherization through your CAP (program details). Seniors may also qualify for a USDA 504 repair grant if the issue is a health/safety hazard and you meet income rules: USDA 504 Repair Program.

Q: I need assisted living but can’t afford it. Any options?
A: Ask ServiceLink to screen you for Medicaid’s Choices for Independence (CFI) and the State Supplement Program (SSP). They can help with care at home or in certain residential settings if you qualify.

Q: I think my landlord is discriminating against me for being LGBTQ+. What can I do?
A: Housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal in NH. Contact the NH Commission for Human Rights or file with HUD Fair Housing.

Q: I’m a veteran. Should I apply for HUD-VASH or regular Section 8?
A: If you receive VA healthcare and need housing plus supportive services, ask about HUD-VASH through VA Manchester. You can also apply for standard vouchers and senior housing if eligible.

Q: Where do I apply for Medicaid and SNAP in NH?
A: Use the state portal: NH EASY. For help with the application, contact ServiceLink.

Additional Helpful Links (Official Sources)

Reality Checks and Tips

  • Expect paperwork and waiting. Keep a checklist and make copies.
  • Apply early each fall for Fuel Assistance and Electric Assistance, and re-certify on time.
  • For vouchers and public housing, submit accurate information and update your contact info if you move or change phone numbers; missed mail can mean a missed offer.
  • If a program is “closed,” ask for alternatives. There is often another door (e.g., town welfare, CAP crisis funds, nonprofit deposit help).
  • For homeowners: Before skipping a mortgage or tax payment, call your servicer, Town Hall, and NH Housing’s foreclosure prevention to explore options.

Disclaimer

Program funding, eligibility rules, and application processes change. Always confirm details 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: 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.