Housing Assistance for Seniors in North Dakota
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger.
- If you’re at risk of homelessness within 72 hours, call 2-1-1 or visit the North Dakota 211 portal at Get help through 211 North Dakota. Ask for emergency shelter, rent help, or homelessness prevention.
- For a mental health crisis, dial or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- For domestic violence, call 1-800-799-7233 or visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
- To report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults, contact North Dakota Adult Protective Services (via ND Health and Human Services). Start at the North Dakota HHS website and search “Adult Protective Services.”
Key Takeaways
- North Dakota seniors can combine several programs: affordable senior housing (HUD Section 202 and project-based Section 8), vouchers through local Public Housing Agencies, home repair grants (USDA Section 504), weatherization and heating help (LIHEAP/WAP), and legal aid.
- Start with two calls: your local Aging & Disability Resource Link at ND Health & Human Services and 211 North Dakota for nearby rent, utility, and housing resources. Find ADRL via North Dakota Health and Human Services.
- For home repairs and accessibility: seniors 62+ may qualify for USDA Section 504 grants; most low-income households can apply for Weatherization through local Community Action Agencies.
- Affordable senior apartments and vouchers often have waitlists. Apply to more than one option and keep documents ready (ID, proof of income, Social Security award letter, bank statements).
- If you’re a veteran, tribal elder, disabled, LGBTQ+, or living in a rural area, there are additional targeted resources listed in this guide.
How to Use This Guide
This is a step-by-step hub for North Dakota housing help for older adults. We explain the main programs, who runs them, how to apply, and where to get help if things are urgent. We link to official government and established program sources so you can verify details.
What Kinds of Help Are Available?
- Rent help and homelessness prevention
- Affordable senior apartments (Section 202, project-based Section 8, USDA Rural)
- Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
- Home repair and accessibility upgrades
- Heating, cooling, and weatherization assistance
- Homebuyer, downsizing, and reverse mortgage counseling
- Legal help for evictions, fair housing, and tenant rights
- Property tax and housing-related relief (local/county-level programs vary)
Quick Paths to Help (Start Here)
Use this table to match your situation with the first actions to take.
| Your situation | What to try first | Where to apply/ask | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behind on rent or at risk of eviction | Call 2-1-1 and your local Aging & Disability Resource Link (ADRL) | 211 North Dakota and North Dakota Health and Human Services – ADRL | Ask for “homelessness prevention” or “emergency rent assistance.” Some funds are limited; act fast. |
| Need an affordable senior apartment | Search HUD Section 202 and project-based Section 8 | Use the HUD Resource Locator | Apply to multiple properties. Ask about preferences (age 62+, disability). |
| Need a voucher (Section 8) | Contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) | Start at the HUD PHA Contact Directory (choose North Dakota) | Waitlists open/close. Apply broadly when lists are open. |
| Need home repairs for safety or accessibility | USDA Section 504 grants/loans and local rehab programs | USDA Rural Development – ND State Office | Section 504 grants are for age 62+ with low income; loans available for others. |
| High heating or energy bills | LIHEAP and Weatherization | North Dakota HHS – Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), and your local Community Action Agency via CAPND | LIHEAP helps with bills; Weatherization cuts future costs. |
| Facing legal issues (eviction, discrimination) | Legal aid and fair housing complaints | Legal Services of North Dakota and HUD Fair Housing (FHEO) | Don’t wait—deadlines are short. |
| Veteran needing housing support | HUD-VASH or SSVF | Fargo VA Health Care System and VA HUD-VASH | VA social workers can connect you quickly. |
| Tribal elder seeking housing help | Tribal housing authority and BIA HIP | Find your tribal housing office via the ND Indian Affairs Commission, and BIA Housing Improvement Program | Preference may apply to enrolled members. |
Reality check: Some programs have limited funds or long waits. Apply to several options, keep your documents organized, and follow up.
Rent Help and Homelessness Prevention
- Talk to 211 and your local ADRL first. They’ll know which rent or move-in help is active in your county.
- Contact: 211 North Dakota and ND Health & Human Services – ADRL
- Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) funds flow to local providers for homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing. You apply through local agencies, not directly to the state. Your best path is via 211 or your Community Action Agency: Community Action Partnership of North Dakota (CAPND).
- If you’re a veteran, ask about SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) and HUD-VASH through the Fargo VA Health Care System and VA HUD-VASH.
Tips:
- If you received an eviction notice, call legal aid immediately: Legal Services of North Dakota.
- Keep copies of your lease, notices, and proof of hardship (doctor notes, loss of income, repair issues).
- Ask your landlord for a payment plan in writing while you pursue help.
Affordable Senior Apartments (Section 202, Project-Based Section 8, USDA Rural)
- HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly provides affordable apartments with services for adults 62+. Learn more at HUD’s Section 202 overview.
- Project-Based Section 8 properties offer reduced rent; you apply at each property, and rent is generally 30% of your income.
- USDA Rural Rental Housing (Section 515) often serves small towns; many units have rental assistance. Search at the USDA Multifamily Property Search.
How to find properties:
- Use the HUD Resource Locator to search “Affordable Elderly/Disabled Properties” by city or ZIP.
- Ask your local Community Action Agency (via CAPND) to help you find properties and fill out multiple applications.
Reality check:
- Waitlists can be months long. Apply to several properties in nearby towns if you can relocate.
- Ask about preferences (age 62+, disability, veterans) and what documents to bring to your interview.
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Housing Choice Vouchers are managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). You use the voucher in the private market if you find a unit that meets rent and inspection rules. Waitlists open and close.
- Learn how vouchers work at HUD – Housing Choice Voucher Program.
- Find your local PHA via the HUD PHA Contact Directory (select North Dakota).
Common ND PHAs include the housing authorities serving Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Williston, and other cities. Use HUD’s directory to see current contact details and whether lists are open.
Tips:
- Apply to every PHA you can reasonably access, especially if they allow “portability.”
- If you have a disability, ask for reasonable accommodations during the application process (e.g., help with forms, communications by phone or mail).
Home Repairs and Accessibility Upgrades
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants and Loans)
- What it is: Low-interest loans (up to 40,000)forverylow−incomehomeownerstorepair,improve,ormodernizetheirhomes.Grants(upto40,000) for very low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their homes. Grants (up to 10,000) are available to homeowners age 62+ to remove health and safety hazards.
- Who qualifies: Owner-occupants in eligible rural areas with income limits; grants require age 62+ and no ability to repay a loan.
- Where to apply: USDA Rural Development – North Dakota and program details at USDA Section 504 Home Repair.
Reality check: Funds are limited and not guaranteed; repairs must address health/safety. If you’re just over income, talk with USDA staff—some expenses may be deducted when determining eligibility.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
- What it is: Free energy-saving improvements like insulation, air sealing, furnace tune-ups, and safety checks.
- Who qualifies: Income-eligible households; renters may qualify with landlord permission.
- Where to apply: Through your local Community Action Agency. Find your agency at Community Action Partnership of North Dakota.
Local Rehab and Accessibility Programs
- Some cities and counties use federal HOME or CDBG funds for owner-occupied rehab or accessibility modifications. Availability changes year to year.
- Start at the state’s housing and community development page for contacts and current programs: North Dakota Department of Commerce – Housing & Community Development, then search “HOME” or “CDBG Housing Rehabilitation,” or ask your city/county planning office.
Veterans’ Home Modification Grants
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Housing Adaptation (SHA), and HISA grants can help disabled veterans modify homes for accessibility. See the VA housing adaptation grants page and contact the Fargo VA Health Care System.
Fair Housing and Accessibility for Renters
- You may request reasonable modifications and accommodations if you have a disability. Landlords can require you to restore certain changes when you move, but may not refuse reasonable requests.
- Learn and file complaints via HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity and the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Home Repair and Accessibility Programs (Comparison Table)
| Program | Who it serves | What it covers | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA Section 504 (loans/grants) | Low-income homeowners; grants for 62+ | Health/safety repairs, accessibility, essential improvements | USDA RD – ND State Office |
| Weatherization Assistance | Income-eligible homeowners and renters | Insulation, air sealing, energy-related repairs | Your local Community Action via CAPND |
| VA SAH/SHA/HISA | Disabled veterans | Major accessibility modifications and adaptations | VA Housing Grants |
| Local HOME/CDBG rehab | Low/moderate-income homeowners | Repairs, sometimes accessibility | Ask your city/county; start at ND Commerce – Housing |
Heating, Cooling, and Utility Help
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- What it is: Help with heating bills, emergency furnace repair, and sometimes cooling assistance.
- Where to apply: Through North Dakota Health and Human Services. Start at North Dakota HHS and search “LIHEAP” or “Energy Assistance.” You can also ask your Community Action Agency to help you apply.
Weatherization Assistance
- See details above. This lowers future bills by improving your home’s energy efficiency. Apply through your local Community Action Agency: CAPND – Find your agency.
Lifeline (Phone/Internet Discount)
- The federal Lifeline program lowers the cost of phone or internet for eligible households. Learn more and apply at the official site: Lifeline Support.
- Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped new funding in 2024. Ask your provider if they offer a low-income plan or Lifeline bundle.
North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC)
- If you’re having trouble with a regulated utility, you can seek help from the PSC’s consumer resources. See the ND Public Service Commission – Consumers.
Energy and Utility Help in North Dakota (At-a-Glance)
| Need | Program | How it helps | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating bill support | LIHEAP | Pays part of your bill; crisis help | ND HHS – Energy Assistance |
| Lower future bills | Weatherization | Insulation, air sealing, furnace tune-up | CAPND – Find your agency |
| Phone/internet discount | Lifeline | Monthly discount on phone/internet | Lifeline Support |
| Utility complaint/help | ND PSC | Consumer assistance, complaints | ND PSC – Consumers |
Reality check: Energy assistance is seasonal and funds can run short in very cold winters. Apply early each season and provide complete income documentation.
Public Housing Agencies (PHA) and How to Apply
You apply for vouchers (Section 8) and sometimes public housing through PHAs. Each PHA runs its own waitlist. Some lists open for a short time and then close.
- Find PHAs serving your area using the HUD PHA Contact Directory and select North Dakota.
- Many seniors apply to more than one PHA to improve their chances.
Tips:
- Set calendar reminders to check when waitlists open.
- If you don’t have regular internet, ask your library, Community Action Agency, or senior center to help you apply online.
PHA quick facts (examples):
| What to know | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| PHAs run separate lists | You can and should apply to more than one. |
| Preferences may apply | Some PHAs prioritize seniors, people with disabilities, or local residents. |
| Keep your contact info updated | If you miss a letter, you can lose your spot. |
Use the HUD directory to pull the most current phone and web links for the PHA nearest to you.
Homebuyer, Downsizing, and Reverse Mortgage Counseling
- HUD-approved housing counselors can help you compare renting vs. buying, understand reverse mortgages (HECM), and avoid scams. Find a counselor at HUD – Find a Housing Counselor or call HUD at 1-800-569-4287.
- Reverse Mortgage (HECM): For homeowners 62+, a HECM can provide income or pay off an existing mortgage but comes with costs and responsibilities (taxes, insurance, maintenance). Get unbiased counseling before you sign anything: HUD Reverse Mortgage info.
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) offers homeownership programs and housing information. Seniors who plan to downsize or relocate may find resources there. Visit the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency and review homeownership and consumer information.
Reality check: Buying in retirement can be risky if your income is fixed and maintenance is high. A housing counselor can help you run the numbers.
Know Your Rights (Evictions, Repairs, Discrimination)
- Legal help: Contact Legal Services of North Dakota for free/low-cost help with evictions, repairs, lockouts, and debt issues.
- Self-help court resources: Visit the North Dakota Courts and look for “Self Help” and landlord-tenant materials.
- Fair housing rights: Housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, and familial status is illegal. File a complaint with HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity or the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Tips:
- Document repair problems with photos, dates, and written requests to your landlord.
- Don’t ignore court papers. Call legal aid immediately if you receive a summons.
Inclusive Housing Help: Groups Who May Qualify for More Help
Veteran Seniors
- HUD-VASH pairs a housing voucher with VA case management for eligible veterans experiencing homelessness. Start with the Fargo VA Health Care System and VA HUD-VASH.
- SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) offers prevention and rapid rehousing supports. Learn more at VA SSVF.
- North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs can help you navigate benefits and connect with a County Veterans Service Officer: ND Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Seniors
- Ask PHAs and landlords for reasonable accommodations (extra time for paperwork, accessible unit transfers, communication support).
- Home modification: consider USDA Section 504 Home Repair and VA housing grants for eligible vets.
- For services to remain at home, contact ND HHS about Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Money Follows the Person (for transitions from facilities). Start at North Dakota Health and Human Services and search “HCBS” or “Money Follows the Person.”
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Your fair housing rights are protected; HUD enforces protections related to sexual orientation and gender identity. See HUD’s Equal Access and Fair Housing information.
- For nationwide support and referrals, contact SAGE’s National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBTQ (1-877-360-5428) or visit the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging.
- If you face discrimination, file with HUD FHEO and notify the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Tribal Elders (Native American Seniors)
- Contact your tribal housing authority for Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) and rental/repair programs. Find tribal government links via the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission.
- BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP) provides housing repair/replacement assistance for eligible members: BIA HIP program.
- Many tribes also partner with USDA and HUD programs; ask your tribal housing office for current waiting lists and application steps.
Rural Seniors and Families
- Rural areas often rely on USDA programs: USDA Section 504 Home Repair and USDA Rural Rental Housing searches: USDA Multifamily Property Search.
- If transportation or internet access is limited, call your local library, senior center, or Community Action Agency to schedule time and help with forms: CAPND – Find your local agency.
Practical Steps: Documents and Application Tips
- Gather these before you apply:
- Photo ID, Social Security card
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pensions, last 3 months of bank statements)
- Proof of expenses (medical bills, prescription costs)
- Lease or mortgage statement, utility bills
- Proof of disability (if applying for disability-related preferences)
- Keep a simple binder or folder. Make copies. Note each date you applied and the person you spoke with.
- If you don’t have a printer, ask your library, senior center, or Community Action office to help you print and scan.
Table: Documents Checklist (print this and check off)
| Document | Have it? |
|---|---|
| Government-issued photo ID | ☐ |
| Social Security card or SSN proof | ☐ |
| Social Security/SSI award letter | ☐ |
| Pension/retirement income proof | ☐ |
| Bank statements (last 3 months) | ☐ |
| Lease/mortgage statement | ☐ |
| Utility bills (most recent) | ☐ |
| Medical bills/expenses | ☐ |
| Proof of disability (if applicable) | ☐ |
Resources by Region (Examples and How to Find More)
Because links and contacts change, use official directories to confirm details.
- PHAs and Vouchers: Use the HUD PHA Contact Directory and select North Dakota to find PHAs serving cities such as Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Williston, and others.
- Affordable senior housing searches:
- Community Action Agencies (weatherization, LIHEAP help, local referrals): Community Action Partnership of North Dakota
- VA services and veteran housing help: Fargo VA Health Care System
- Tribal contacts: North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission
If online search is difficult, call 2-1-1 and ask for:
- Your nearest PHA
- The closest Community Action Agency
- Affordable senior apartment lists in your county
- Any active rental assistance funds
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: I’m 70 and own my home, but the roof is leaking. What should I try first?
A: Ask USDA about the Section 504 program for seniors age 62+ and low income. Grants can address health/safety issues like a failing roof. Start with USDA RD – North Dakota. Also ask your local Community Action Agency if there’s a city/county rehab program.
Q: Is there still pandemic rent assistance in North Dakota?
A: Federal Emergency Rental Assistance has largely ended. Some areas still use remaining funds or other sources. Call 2-1-1 for current local options and ask about “homelessness prevention.”
Q: How long are waitlists for senior apartments?
A: It varies by location—weeks to many months. Apply to several properties and widen your search to nearby towns to improve your chances. Use the HUD Resource Locator.
Q: I got a 3-day eviction notice. What do I do right now?
A: Call Legal Services of North Dakota immediately and dial 2-1-1. Keep all papers and attend any court hearing. You may still qualify for help or a payment plan.
Q: I live in a rural area with no internet. How can I apply?
A: Call your library or Community Action Agency to schedule time and help with online applications. You can also ask for paper applications from PHAs and mail them.
Q: Are property tax breaks available for seniors?
A: Property tax relief programs change. Check with your county tax office for the current homestead or homeowner credits and any income-based relief. You can also ask ADRL (via ND HHS) where to apply in your county.
Q: I’m LGBTQ+ and worry about discrimination.
A: HUD enforces fair housing protections related to sexual orientation and gender identity. If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint at HUD FHEO and contact the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Q: My landlord refuses a reasonable modification for my disability.
A: You can request reasonable accommodations/modifications under fair housing laws. If refused, contact Legal Services of North Dakota and consider filing a complaint with HUD FHEO.
Q: Can I get help moving from a nursing home back into the community?
A: Ask ND HHS about “Money Follows the Person” and HCBS supports. Start at North Dakota Health and Human Services and ask the ADRL for guidance.
Resources (Official and Established Sources)
- North Dakota Health and Human Services (Aging, ADRL, LIHEAP, HCBS): ND HHS main site
- 211 North Dakota (rent, shelter, local referrals): North Dakota 211
- North Dakota Department of Commerce – Housing & Community Development: ND Commerce
- North Dakota Public Service Commission (consumer utility help): ND PSC – Consumers
- Community Action Partnership of North Dakota (WAP, local aid): CAPND
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (state housing information): NDHFA
- HUD (North Dakota page and national programs): HUD North Dakota
- HUD Resource Locator (affordable housing search): HUD Resource Locator
- HUD – Housing Choice Voucher program: HCV Program Overview
- HUD – PHA Contact Directory: Find your local PHA
- USDA Rural Development – North Dakota: USDA RD North Dakota
- USDA – Section 504 Home Repair: Section 504 Loans & Grants
- USDA – Multifamily Property Search: Find USDA rental properties
- Legal Services of North Dakota: Legalassist.org
- North Dakota Courts (Self-Help): ND Courts
- HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (file a complaint): HUD FHEO
- ND Department of Labor and Human Rights: ND DOLHR
- Fargo VA Health Care System (veterans): VA Fargo
- VA HUD-VASH: HUD-VASH overview
- VA SSVF: SSVF program
- BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP): BIA HIP
- ND Indian Affairs Commission (tribal contacts): ND IAC
- Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Lifeline Support
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Lifeline
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: The Hotline
Disclaimer
Programs, income limits, funding, and eligibility rules change. Always confirm details with the program or agency before applying. This guide links to official and well-established sources so you can verify current information.
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.
About the Authors