Housing Assistance for Seniors in New Hampshire

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If You Need Emergency Housing Help in New Hampshire

If you are in immediate danger or do not have a safe place to stay tonight, call 911 right away.

Emergency Shelter and Housing Assistance

For help finding emergency shelter, rental assistance, or homelessness services, contact 211 New Hampshire.

  • Dial 211 from anywhere in the state
  • Or visit 211nh.org
  • Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

211 specialists can connect you with local shelters, emergency housing programs, and other crisis resources.

Help for Seniors and Older Adults

Older adults who need help navigating housing options, benefits, or long-term care services can contact ServiceLink, New Hampshire’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC).

ServiceLink counselors provide free assistance with:

  • Housing navigation and senior housing options
  • Benefits counseling (Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs)
  • Long-term care planning and caregiver support
  • Referrals to local senior services

You can locate the nearest ServiceLink office by visiting the New Hampshire DHHS website or by calling 866-634-9412.

If You Cannot Pay Rent or Utilities

If you are at risk of eviction, utility shutoff, or losing housing, contact your local city or town welfare office immediately.

Under New Hampshire law (RSA 165), every municipality must provide General Assistance (often called Town Welfare) to residents who cannot afford basic needs such as:

  • Rent or housing costs
  • Heating fuel and utilities
  • Food and essential living expenses

Start by contacting your local Town Hall or municipal welfare office. If you are unsure who to call, dial 211 and they will direct you to the correct office in your community.


Key Takeaways

  • Housing is limited and expensive in New Hampshire. Rental vacancies are low and housing costs remain high across much of the state, so waitlists for affordable apartments and rental assistance programs are common. Apply to multiple programs and ask whether you qualify for priority preferences, such as those for seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, or individuals experiencing homelessness.

  • Start with the three main resource hubs. These organizations can screen you for several housing and benefit programs at once:

  • If you rent, apply for the major support programs early. The most common assistance programs include:

    • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
    • Energy assistance programs, including Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and the Electric Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Public housing and senior/elderly housing communities

Because these programs often have long waiting lists, applying as early as possible is important.

  • If you own your home, look for cost-relief programs. Seniors may qualify for several programs that help reduce housing expenses, including:

    • Local property tax relief programs
    • New Hampshire’s elderly property tax exemptions or tax deferral programs
    • Weatherization assistance for energy efficiency improvements
    • USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants, available to homeowners age 62 and older who meet income requirements
  • If you need help with assisted living or care at home, New Hampshire offers programs that may help cover the cost of care. These include:

    • Choices for Independence (CFI), the state’s Medicaid home- and community-based services waiver
    • The State Supplement Program, which may help eligible residents pay for care in certain residential settings

A ServiceLink counselor can help screen you for these programs and guide you through the application process.

  • Do not assume you are ineligible. Income and asset limits can vary by program, and eligibility rules sometimes include exceptions. In addition, program funding levels and benefits can change each year. Always verify the most current information through the official agencies listed in this guide before applying.


What You’ll Find in This Guide

This guide is designed to help older adults and their families quickly understand what housing help is available in New Hampshire and how to apply. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Direct links to official programs and applications so you can apply with the correct agency.
  • Clear, plain-language explanations of what each housing or assistance program offers and who is eligible.
  • Practical tips about waitlists, documentation, and application timelines so you know what to expect.
  • Guidance for specific groups of seniors, including LGBTQ+ older adults, veterans, people with disabilities, tribal members, and rural residents who may qualify for additional resources or protections.
  • Regional directories and contact information so you know which offices, agencies, or organizations to call for help in your area.

The goal is to make it easier to find the right housing support programs, understand the requirements, and take the next steps toward stable and affordable housing.


Quick Program Finder

The table below highlights the most common housing and housing-related assistance programs available to seniors in New Hampshire. Each program serves a different need, such as rent subsidies, energy assistance, home repairs, or long-term care support.

Program What it helps with Who it’s for Where to apply
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Ongoing rent subsidy for private apartments. Participants typically pay about 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the rest up to program limits. Low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Local housing authorities may offer priority preferences. NHHFA Housing Choice Voucher and participating local housing authorities
Public and Elderly Housing Affordable apartments owned or managed by housing authorities with reduced rent based on income. Low-income seniors (often 62+) and people with disabilities. Apply directly through Local housing authorities
Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Helps pay for heating costs such as oil, propane, natural gas, wood, or electricity during the winter heating season. Income-eligible households, including seniors. Apply through your local Community Action Agency (CAP) via the NH Department of Energy
Electric Assistance Program (EAP) Monthly discount on electric utility bills based on household income. Income-eligible households Apply through your local Community Action Agency (CAP)
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Free home energy improvements that help reduce heating and utility costs, such as insulation and air sealing. Income-eligible renters and homeowners Apply through your local Community Action Agency via the NH Department of Energy
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants Financial help for essential home repairs related to health and safety. Grants are available for homeowners age 62+ who meet income requirements. Low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas. Apply through the USDA Single Family Housing Repair Program (Section 504) and the USDA New Hampshire State Office
Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief State property tax relief for eligible homeowners with limited income. Income-eligible homeowners Apply through the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration
Elderly Property Tax Exemption and Tax Deferral Local property tax reductions or the option to defer property taxes for eligible seniors. Age-eligible homeowners; income and asset limits vary by municipality. Apply at your local Town Hall using Form PA-29 (tax deferral governed by RSA 72:38-a)
Medicaid Choices for Independence (CFI) Helps pay for long-term services and supports, including care at home or in certain residential settings. Seniors and adults with disabilities who qualify for Medicaid and functional eligibility. Apply through NH DHHS via NH EASY or contact ServiceLink for screening
State Supplement Program (SSP) Monthly state payment that may help offset room and board in licensed residential care settings. Low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. Apply through NH DHHS via NH EASY
Fair Housing Help Help filing discrimination complaints related to housing and access to education about fair housing rights. All New Hampshire residents NH Commission for Human Rights or HUD New Hampshire

Note:

Program eligibility rules, funding levels, and application procedures can change. Always confirm current details with the official program website or agency before applying.


Why Housing Help Can Be Hard to Find in New Hampshire (And How to Improve Your Chances)

New Hampshire has one of the tightest housing markets in New England. Rental vacancies remain low and housing costs have continued to rise in many parts of the state, according to recent housing reports from New Hampshire Housing. As a result, affordable housing programs are in high demand, especially for seniors living on fixed incomes.

Because of this limited supply, it is common to encounter:

  • Long waitlists for rental assistance programs and senior housing communities
  • Short application windows when voucher or housing lists open
  • Strict documentation requirements during the application process

If you apply to only one housing program or property, it may take months or even years before assistance becomes available.

How to Improve Your Chances

While the process can take time, there are steps that can help seniors access housing assistance more quickly or move up waitlists.

Apply to multiple programs and housing providers.
You can apply to more than one program at the same time. Many seniors increase their chances by applying to:

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists
  • Public housing and senior housing communities
  • Section 202 supportive housing for the elderly
  • Affordable housing properties managed by nonprofit organizations

Ask about priority preferences.
Many housing programs give priority to applicants who meet certain criteria. Preferences vary by program but may include:

  • Adults age 62 and older
  • People with disabilities
  • Veterans
  • Individuals experiencing homelessness
  • Local residents of the housing authority’s jurisdiction

If you qualify for a preference, it can move your application higher on the waiting list.

Use local agencies that can screen you for several programs at once.
Instead of applying blindly, start with organizations that help seniors identify the programs they qualify for:

  • ServiceLink – New Hampshire’s Aging and Disability Resource Center
  • Local Community Action Agencies (CAP agencies) – assist with energy assistance, housing programs, and applications
  • New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) – oversees many rental assistance and housing programs statewide

These agencies can help you find open waitlists, prepare applications, and gather the documents needed to apply.


Renters: Vouchers, Public & Senior Housing, and Short-Term Help

For seniors who rent, several programs in New Hampshire can help reduce housing costs or prevent eviction. These include long-term rental subsidies, affordable senior housing communities, and short-term emergency assistance.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)

What it does

The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program helps eligible households pay rent in privately owned apartments. In most cases, participants contribute about 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, and the voucher covers the remaining amount up to a local payment limit set by the housing authority.

Who it’s for

  • Low-income households
  • Seniors and people with disabilities
  • Some housing authorities offer priority preferences for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, or individuals experiencing homelessness.

Where to apply

  • Statewide: New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) administers a large portion of the program. Check their website for current waitlist openings and application instructions.
  • Local housing authorities: Some cities and towns manage their own voucher programs. You can apply separately to these waiting lists when they are open.

Reality check

Voucher waitlists may open only briefly and can close quickly once they reach capacity. To improve your chances:

  • Sign up for waitlist alerts from New Hampshire Housing
  • Check local housing authority websites regularly
  • If you have a disability, ask about reasonable accommodations during the application, housing search, or lease-up process.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) — Housing Choice Voucher Program.

Public Housing and Elderly/Disabled Housing

What it does

Public housing offers income-based rent apartments owned or managed by local housing authorities. Many communities operate “elderly/disabled” housing buildings designed for seniors and people with disabilities.

These properties often include features such as:

  • Elevators and accessible units
  • Community rooms and shared spaces
  • On-site management or maintenance staff
  • Organized activities or resident services (varies by location)

Who it’s for

  • Low-income seniors (typically age 62 or older)
  • Adults with disabilities
  • Eligibility and income limits are set by HUD and the local housing authority.

Where to apply

Applications must be submitted directly to the housing authority that manages the property. Each authority maintains its own waiting list and application process.

(See the Housing Authorities directory later in this guide for links and contact information.)

Short-Term Rental Help and Homelessness Prevention

If you are at risk of eviction or losing housing, several programs may offer emergency or short-term assistance.

Coordinated Entry and housing crisis help
Call 211 New Hampshire or visit 211nh.org to access the state’s coordinated homelessness response system. Specialists can connect you to:

  • Emergency shelters
  • Rapid rehousing programs
  • Eviction prevention and diversion services
  • Local housing support organizations

Municipal welfare assistance (RSA 165)
Under New Hampshire law, every municipality must provide General Assistance (often called Town Welfare) for residents who cannot afford basic needs. This may include:

  • Emergency rent payments
  • Help with utility bills or heating fuel
  • Assistance to prevent eviction

Contact your local Town Hall or welfare office to apply. If you are unsure where to start, dial 211 and ask for your municipality’s welfare office.

Legal help for eviction or housing disputes
If you are facing eviction or a landlord dispute, you may qualify for free legal help through:

Sources:
U.S. HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program; New Hampshire Housing; New Hampshire DHHS housing and homelessness support resources; RSA 165 municipal assistance law.


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

Energy costs in New Hampshire can be high, especially during the winter. Several programs can help reduce heating and electricity bills for seniors and other households with limited income. Because funding is limited and applications are seasonal, it’s best to apply as early as possible each year.

Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

What it does

The Fuel Assistance Program, funded through the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), helps eligible households pay for home heating costs. Benefits can be used for fuels such as:

  • Heating oil
  • Propane
  • Natural gas
  • Electric heat
  • Wood or pellets

Payments are typically made directly to your fuel dealer or utility provider.

Who it’s for

  • Income-eligible households
  • Renters and homeowners may both qualify
  • Seniors and households with disabilities often receive priority consideration.

How to apply

Applications are handled through your local Community Action Agency (CAP agency).
Start here: New Hampshire Department of Energy – Fuel Assistance Program.

Application Tip

Be prepared to provide:

  • Government-issued ID
  • Recent heating fuel or utility bills
  • Fuel delivery receipts if applicable
  • Proof of income for everyone in the household

If you are out of fuel or at immediate risk, ask your CAP agency about emergency benefits.

Electric Assistance Program (EAP)

What it does

The Electric Assistance Program provides a monthly discount on electric bills for eligible households. The discount amount depends on your income tier and household size.

Who qualifies

Income-eligible households receiving electricity from a participating utility company.

How to apply

Applications are processed through your local CAP agency.

Program information: New Hampshire Department of Energy – Electric Assistance Program.

Important:
The discount is not automatic. You must apply and may need to re-certify periodically to continue receiving the benefit.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

What it does

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps lower energy bills by improving the efficiency of your home. Services may include:

  • Insulation installation
  • Air sealing to prevent heat loss
  • Heating system safety checks or tune-ups
  • Energy efficiency upgrades

These improvements can reduce energy costs and make homes more comfortable year-round.

Who it’s for

  • Income-eligible renters and homeowners
  • For rental units, landlord permission is required before work can begin.

How to apply

Apply through your local Community Action Agency.

Program details: New Hampshire Department of Energy – Weatherization Assistance Program.

Utility Shutoff Protections

If you receive a utility shutoff notice, take action immediately:

  1. Call your utility provider and ask about payment plans or hardship options.
  2. Contact your local CAP agency to see if emergency energy assistance is available.

Some protections may apply during winter months or for households with seniors, disabilities, or documented medical needs.

For help resolving utility issues or filing complaints, contact the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission – Consumer Assistance Division.


Homeowners: Property Tax Relief, Repairs, and Home Modifications

Older homeowners in New Hampshire may qualify for programs that reduce property taxes, fund critical home repairs, or improve energy efficiency. These programs can help seniors stay safely in their homes while managing housing costs on a fixed income.

State Property Tax Relief for Low- and Moderate-Income Homeowners

What it is

New Hampshire offers a Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief program that refunds a portion of the state education property tax paid by eligible homeowners.

Who may qualify

  • Homeowners with income below program limits
  • Applicants must have owned and lived in the home during the tax year for which relief is requested.

Where to apply

Applications are filed through the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.

Because income limits and application deadlines can change, always check the official program page before applying.

Elderly Property Tax Exemption and Property Tax Deferral

Many New Hampshire towns offer additional local tax relief programs specifically for seniors.

Elderly Property Tax Exemption

What it does

Cities and towns may provide property tax exemptions based on age, often structured in tiers such as:

  • Age 65–74
  • Age 75–79
  • Age 80 and older

Each municipality sets its own income and asset limits, as well as the amount of the exemption.

How to apply

Applications are submitted to your local town or city assessing office, typically using Form PA-29 (Permanent Application for Property Tax Credits/Exemptions).

Contact your Town Hall or assessor’s office for local rules, eligibility limits, and filing deadlines.

Property Tax Deferral (RSA 72:38-a)

What it does

Eligible homeowners may defer part or all of their property taxes until the home is sold or ownership changes.

Important considerations

  • Deferred taxes accrue interest over time
  • The program may require income and equity eligibility checks
  • Municipalities administer the program locally.

Apply through your Town Hall or municipal assessing office, usually using Form PA-29.

Reality check

Tax exemptions reduce annual property taxes, but you must meet local income and asset limits, and some towns require periodic renewal or documentation updates.

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

What it does

The USDA Single Family Housing Repair Program (Section 504) helps low-income rural homeowners make essential home repairs that address health and safety hazards.

Examples of eligible repairs include:

  • Fixing roof leaks or structural issues
  • Electrical or plumbing repairs
  • Accessibility improvements such as ramps or grab bars
  • Heating system repairs or replacements

Types of assistance

  • Grants for homeowners age 62 or older who cannot repay a loan
  • Low-interest loans for eligible homeowners who can repay over time

Where to apply

Program information and applications are available through the USDA Single Family Housing Repair (Section 504) program.
Residents in New Hampshire can also contact the USDA Rural Development New Hampshire State Office for assistance.

Application tip

You will typically need to provide:

  • Proof of home ownership
  • Income documentation
  • Photos or contractor estimates showing the repair needs.

Weatherization and Home Energy Improvements

Homeowners may also qualify for Weatherization Assistance through their local Community Action Agency. This program helps lower energy costs by improving home efficiency.

Services may include:

  • Insulation installation
  • Air sealing to reduce drafts
  • Heating system safety checks and efficiency improvements
  • Minor health and safety repairs related to energy systems

These upgrades can reduce heating costs and improve comfort during New Hampshire’s cold winters.

Foreclosure Prevention and Housing Counseling

If you are struggling to keep up with mortgage payments or property taxes, free help may be available through HUD-approved housing counseling services.

Start with New Hampshire Housing’s Foreclosure Prevention program, which connects homeowners with HUD-certified housing counselors who can help with:

  • Loan modification options
  • Repayment plans with lenders
  • Budget counseling
  • Access to other housing relief programs

Even if previous federal relief programs such as the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) are no longer accepting new applications, counselors may still help identify alternative assistance or mitigation options.


Assisted Living, Residential Care, and Nursing Home Costs

Long-term care can be expensive, but New Hampshire offers several programs that may help seniors pay for care at home, in residential settings, or in nursing facilities if they meet eligibility requirements.

Medicaid Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver

What it does

The Choices for Independence (CFI) program is New Hampshire’s Medicaid home- and community-based services waiver. It helps eligible seniors and adults with disabilities receive long-term care services outside of a nursing home whenever possible.

The goal of the program is to help people remain at home or in community-based residential settings rather than entering a nursing facility.

Services may include

  • Personal care assistance
  • Homemaker services
  • Case management
  • Adult medical day services
  • Home-delivered meals and caregiver supports
  • Services in certain licensed residential care settings

Where to start

You can begin the process by:

  • Applying through NH EASY, the state’s benefits application portal
  • Contacting ServiceLink, where counselors can screen you for eligibility and help with the application.

Reality check

Both financial eligibility (income and assets) and functional eligibility (level of care needs) are required. Program capacity and available service providers may vary by region, so wait times can occur in some areas.

State Supplement Program (SSP)

What it does

The State Supplement Program provides a monthly cash benefit to eligible individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled with limited income.

For some participants, SSP payments may help offset room and board costs in licensed residential care settings, such as assisted living or supported housing communities.

How To Apply

Applications are submitted through NH EASY via the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Eligibility requirements are based on income, resources, and disability or age status.

Nursing Home Medicaid

If a person requires 24-hour skilled nursing care, Medicaid may cover the cost of care in a licensed nursing facility if eligibility standards are met.

Medicaid nursing facility coverage generally requires:

  • Meeting income and asset limits
  • Demonstrating a medical need for nursing-level care
  • Completing a state eligibility and functional assessment.

Because Medicaid rules change periodically and involve complex financial guidelines, it is important to seek guidance before transferring assets or spending down savings.

Where to apply

Applications are processed through NH EASY or with assistance from ServiceLink counselors. Families may also wish to consult a qualified elder law attorney for help navigating Medicaid eligibility rules.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

If you or a loved one lives in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or other licensed long-term care setting, the New Hampshire Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program can help protect resident rights.

The Ombudsman assists with:

  • Complaints about quality of care
  • Resident rights concerns
  • Communication issues with facility staff
  • Information about long-term care regulations and protections.

Services are free and confidential for residents and their families.


Housing Authorities (Elderly Housing, Public Housing and Vouchers)

Local housing authorities manage public housing, senior/disabled housing communities, and many Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs. Because waiting lists vary by location, applying to multiple housing authorities can improve your chances of receiving assistance.

Housing Authority Service Area  Application / Information
New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) Statewide programs 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 Authority Laconia Laconia Housing
Keene Housing Authority Keene Keene Housing

Application Tip

When contacting a housing authority, ask whether they:

  • Manage elderly or disabled housing buildings specifically designed for seniors
  • Offer local waitlist preferences (such as for seniors, veterans, or local residents)
  • Administer Project-Based Voucher (PBV) units, where the rental subsidy is attached to a specific apartment building rather than the tenant.

These options can sometimes provide faster access to affordable housing than waiting for a traditional voucher.


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: March 2026
  • Sources Verified: March 2026
  • Next Review: July 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.

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.