Housing Assistance for Seniors in Virginia
Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- For emergency shelter, rent help, or utility shutoff help:
- Call 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Virginia: Find help now on 211Virginia.org
- Ask for “Coordinated Entry” or “Homeless Services” in your locality.
- Facing eviction? Contact legal aid right away:
- Virginia Legal Aid: Get legal help at VirginiaLegalAid.org
- If your power is off or about to be shut off:
- Virginia Energy Assistance (Fuel, Crisis, Cooling): Apply at CommonHelp.virginia.gov or call your local Department of Social Services. Program windows open seasonally.
- Veterans experiencing homelessness:
- VA Homeless Veterans: Get help from the VA
- HUD-VASH (rental vouchers through VA): Learn about HUD-VASH
Key Takeaways
- Most rental assistance in Virginia is handled locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Check availability and waitlists using HUD’s directory: Find your local PHA in Virginia.
- Strong homeowner help exists for repairs and safety: USDA Section 504 Home Repair grants for seniors 62+, Virginia DHCD programs for emergency/accessibility repairs, and Weatherization for energy savings.
- Utility help is statewide through Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program (Fuel, Crisis, and Cooling). Apply via CommonHelp.virginia.gov.
- Assisted living help may be available through Virginia’s Auxiliary Grants (AG) program and Medicaid long-term services; these are needs-based and require a functional assessment and financial review.
- The statewide COVID-era Rent Relief Program ended. Some local help may exist, but you’ll often rely on vouchers, subsidized housing, legal protections, and nonprofit aid.
- Income and asset limits change annually. Always verify with the official agency page linked in this guide before you apply.
What This Guide Covers
This is a Virginia-specific guide to help seniors understand and access housing aid, including rental help, home repairs and accessibility, utility help, property tax relief, and support for assisted living or nursing care. It blends state and federal programs with local options, gives plain-language steps, and links directly to official sources.
Quick-Glance: Programs You Can Use
| Program | Who It Helps | What It Can Do | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Low-income renters | Pays part of your rent to a private landlord | Find your PHA in Virginia |
| Public Housing | Low-income renters | Subsidized apartments managed by housing authorities | Search PHAs (select Virginia) |
| Affordable Apartments (non-voucher) | Low/moderate-income renters | Lower-rent units with income limits | HUD Resource Locator (map) |
| Energy Assistance (LIHEAP in Virginia) | Low-income households | Fuel, Crisis, Cooling help (seasonal) | CommonHelp.virginia.gov |
| Weatherization Assistance (WAP) | Low-income homeowners/renters | Free energy upgrades to lower bills | Virginia DHCD – Weatherization |
| USDA Section 504 Home Repair | Homeowners age 62+ with low income | Grants/loans for essential repairs and hazards | USDA Virginia State Office |
| Emergency Home & Accessibility Repairs | Low-income homeowners | Fix urgent safety issues; add ramps/grab bars | Virginia DHCD Programs |
| Auxiliary Grants (AG) | SSI/low-income adults in ALFs/AFC | Monthly payment toward assisted living/foster care | Virginia DSS – Auxiliary Grants |
| Medicaid LTSS, PACE, MFP | Low-income seniors needing care | In-home support or facility care coverage | Virginia DMAS – Medicaid |
| Fair Housing Help | All protected classes | Stop discrimination in rentals/sales | Virginia Fair Housing Office |
Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, call your Area Agency on Aging for free guidance. Find yours via the Eldercare Locator: Find your local AAA.
How Rental Help Works in Virginia
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
- What it is: A federal program that pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You pay the rest.
- Who runs it: Local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). In some areas not covered by a local PHA, Virginia Housing may administer vouchers.
- What to know:
- Waitlists can be long and open only at certain times.
- PHAs may have local preferences (e.g., seniors, veterans, local residents).
- You must rent from a landlord who accepts vouchers and pass a unit inspection.
Start here:
- HUD’s official PHA directory: Find your local PHA in Virginia
- Virginia Housing (state housing finance agency): Virginia Housing – Rental Assistance and Rentals
Reality check: Demand is high across Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads. Apply to multiple PHAs if you can, keep your contact info updated, and respond fast to any PHA letters or emails.
Public Housing
- What it is: Apartments owned or managed by PHAs with below-market rent.
- How to apply: Contact your local PHA using the same HUD directory: Search Virginia PHAs
- Tip: If public housing lists are closed, ask about site-based waitlists at specific properties or other local affordable complexes.
Find Affordable Apartments Without a Voucher
- HUD Resource Locator (map of subsidized properties): Search affordable apartments on HUD’s map
- Virginia Housing rental search: Explore affordable rentals via Virginia Housing
- Income limits: HUD updates income limits annually by county/metro. Check the latest here: HUD Income Limits
Eviction Prevention and Tenants’ Rights
- Virginia Legal Aid: Know your rights and get help
- Virginia Courts info: For court forms and basics, visit Virginia’s Judicial System
- Fair Housing: If you believe you were treated differently due to age, disability, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status, contact the state office: Virginia Fair Housing Office (DPOR)
Reality check: The COVID-era statewide rent relief ended. Today, most “rent help” is either a voucher, a subsidized unit, legal protections, or short-term charity aid. Apply early, keep records, and ask your AAA or 2-1-1 to help you navigate.
Home Repairs, Safety Modifications, and Weatherization
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Loans & Grants)
- Who it helps: Very low-income homeowners. Grants available for homeowners age 62+ to fix health and safety hazards.
- What it can cover: Roofs, wiring, plumbing, heating, accessibility (ramps/railings), and hazard removal.
- How to apply:
- Contact USDA Rural Development – Virginia: USDA Virginia State Office
- Program overview: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants
Tips:
- Grants are limited to essential health/safety issues.
- If you can’t get the full amount you need, combine with state or nonprofit programs below.
Virginia DHCD Programs (State Housing & Community Development)
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) funds local nonprofits and localities to deliver repair and accessibility programs.
Key programs (administered locally):
- Emergency Home & Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP): Targets urgent repairs (e.g., heat, hot water, roof leaks) and accessibility (ramps, grab bars, bathroom modifications).
- Indoor Plumbing Rehabilitation (IPR): Helps homes lacking indoor plumbing or with failing systems.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Energy audits, insulation, air sealing, and minor health/safety fixes to lower utility bills.
Where to start:
- DHCD program portal: Virginia DHCD – Housing & Community Development Programs
- Ask 2-1-1 Virginia who delivers EHARP/WAP/IPR in your county: Find local providers at 211Virginia.org
Accessibility Tax Credit
- Virginia’s Livable Home Tax Credit encourages accessibility features in owner-occupied homes. Credit amounts and eligible features can change.
- Learn more and verify current rules: Virginia DHCD – Livable Homes
Trusted Nonprofits for Repairs and Modifications
- Habitat for Humanity Virginia (local affiliates do critical home repairs): Find a local Habitat affiliate
- Rebuilding Together (home safety modifications): Search for a Virginia affiliate
- project:HOMES (focus on Central Virginia repairs and weatherization): project:HOMES (Richmond region)
Reality check: Most repair funds are income-limited, and waitlists happen—especially for roof, heating, and accessibility work. Keep paperwork handy (proof of income, deed, IDs) and apply to several programs.
Utilities: Keep the Lights, Heat, and A/C On
| Program | Season/Timing | What It Covers | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) | Typically mid-fall sign-up | Helps with heating costs | CommonHelp.virginia.gov |
| Crisis Assistance (LIHEAP) | Winter emergency window | Prevents cutoffs or fixes heat emergencies | CommonHelp.virginia.gov |
| Cooling Assistance (LIHEAP) | Typically summer sign-up | A/C purchases/repairs or electric bills | CommonHelp.virginia.gov |
| Weatherization (WAP) | Year-round, waitlists | Energy upgrades to lower bills | Virginia DHCD – Weatherization |
- Program info: Virginia Department of Social Services Energy Assistance: VDSS Energy Assistance overview
- Dominion Energy Virginia customer assistance (including EnergyShare): See Dominion’s assistance options
- Appalachian Power customer assistance: View Appalachian Power assistance programs
- Municipal utilities: Check your city or county utility page for customer aid and medical hardship policies.
Note: Program dates and budgets change each year. Always check the current application windows on the official pages above.
Property Tax Relief and Cost of Housing
Many Virginia counties and independent cities offer real estate tax relief or deferrals for older adults and people with disabilities under Virginia law. Income and net worth caps vary by locality.
Where to check:
- Contact your local Commissioner of the Revenue or Treasurer’s Office.
- Examples:
- Fairfax County Tax Relief for Seniors & People with Disabilities: Fairfax County tax relief
- City of Virginia Beach Tax Relief: Virginia Beach elderly/disabled tax relief
- City of Richmond Tax Relief: Richmond elderly/disabled tax relief
Renters: Some localities offer limited rebates for elderly/disabled renters. Ask your Commissioner of the Revenue if your locality participates.
Reality check: Filing windows are strict. If you miss the deadline, relief may be delayed a year. Ask about hardship extensions or late filing options if you have a documented reason.
Assisted Living, In-Home Care, and Transitions
Auxiliary Grants (AG) for Assisted Living and Adult Foster Care
- What it is: A Virginia cash assistance program that helps eligible individuals pay for an Assisted Living Facility (ALF) or Adult Foster Care (AFC).
- Who qualifies: Virginia residents who receive SSI or who meet income/resource limits and are assessed as needing this level of care. Must live in a licensed ALF or approved AFC that accepts AG.
- Learn more and apply: Virginia DSS – Auxiliary Grants Program
- Tip: Your local Department of Social Services can help with screening and placement options.
Virginia Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and PACE
- Virginia Medicaid (DMAS) may cover nursing home care or in-home/community services if you meet medical and financial criteria. Benefits are typically delivered through managed care (Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus).
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) offers a “one-stop” model for medical and supportive services for eligible seniors in participating areas.
- Start here:
- Virginia Medicaid (DMAS): Medicaid LTSS programs overview
- PACE in Virginia: Learn about PACE via DMAS
Money Follows the Person (MFP)
- Helps people in nursing facilities return to community settings with services and transition supports.
- Learn more: Virginia DMAS – Money Follows the Person
Reality check: Medicaid applications can be complex and require detailed financial documentation. Ask your Area Agency on Aging or a Medicaid long-term care pre-screener for help.
Homeownership Protection
Mortgage Help (Homeowner Assistance Fund – Status Varies)
- Virginia Mortgage Relief Program (HAF) used federal funds to help homeowners behind on mortgages, taxes, and some fees. Many states have closed or limited new intake as funds wind down.
- Check current status or to see if waitlists are open: Virginia Mortgage Relief Program
Foreclosure Prevention Counseling
- HUD-approved housing counselors can help you talk to your lender, explore options, and avoid scams.
- Find a counselor in Virginia: Search HUD-approved housing counselors
Tip: Never pay upfront fees to “rescue” your home. Talk to a HUD-approved counselor or your local AAA first.
Fair Housing and Protection from Discrimination
- Virginia Fair Housing Office (enforces Virginia Fair Housing Law): File a complaint or learn your rights
- HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: Report housing discrimination to HUD
Protected classes in Virginia include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Retaliation is also prohibited.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply and What to Prepare
- Gather documents:
- Photo ID, Social Security number.
- Proof of Virginia residency (mail, lease, utility bill).
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs).
- Bank statements and proof of assets (for some programs).
- Lease, landlord info (for rental help) or mortgage/insurance/tax bills (for homeowner help).
- Medical or disability documentation (if applying for disability-related programs).
- Contact the right agency:
- Rental: Your local PHA; affordable apartment manager; 2-1-1 for local emergency help.
- Utilities: Apply via CommonHelp.virginia.gov.
- Repairs: USDA RD Virginia; local DHCD partners; nonprofits listed above.
- Assisted living/Medicaid: Local DSS (AG) or DMAS (Medicaid LTSS).
- Submit complete applications:
- Answer every question; attach every required document.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Follow up:
- Mark your calendar with deadlines.
- If you move or change phone numbers, notify the agency immediately.
- If denied:
- Ask for the reason in writing and the appeal steps.
- Contact your AAA or legal aid for appeal help.
Scam warning: Do not pay for applications. Most programs are free to apply. Ignore promises of “instant approval.”
Special Considerations and Inclusive Resources
Veteran Seniors
- HUD-VASH (voucher plus case management through the VA): About HUD-VASH
- Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) can help with rent, security deposits, and rapid re-housing: Find SSVF providers
- Virginia Department of Veterans Services (benefits, referrals): Virginia DVS
Tip: Start with your nearest VA Medical Center social worker. They can refer you directly to HUD-VASH or SSVF if eligible.
Disabled Seniors
- Centers for Independent Living (skills training, housing rights help, home modifications): Find Virginia CILs via DARS: Virginia DARS – Disability Services
- Assistive Technology: Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) via DARS
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Your housing rights are protected under Virginia Fair Housing Law (includes sexual orientation and gender identity). If you face discrimination, contact: Virginia Fair Housing Office
- National support and aging resources: SAGE – Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders
Tribal Members and Native Seniors in Virginia
- Some tribes may access housing funds through HUD’s Office of Native American Programs (ONAP). Contact the Eastern Woodlands ONAP for guidance: HUD ONAP – Eastern Woodlands Region
- If your tribe lacks a housing authority, you can still apply for mainstream programs listed in this guide and ask your AAA for case management support.
Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas
- USDA Rural Development is a strong option for home repairs: USDA RD Virginia
- Weatherization and LIHEAP often prioritize rural seniors with high energy burdens.
- If travel is hard, ask agencies about phone appointments or home visits. Your AAA can coordinate: Find your AAA
Rental Assistance and Repairs: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Need | Best First Step | Typical Requirements | Common Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ongoing rent help | Apply for Section 8 voucher at local PHA | Income under limits; documents; landlord accepts voucher | Months to years depending on area |
| Immediate back rent | Call 2-1-1 for local charity help; contact legal aid | Proof of hardship; lease; past-due notice | Days to weeks; limited funds |
| Home safety repair (roof/heat) | USDA Section 504 + DHCD local partner | Low income; own and occupy the home; repair must be essential | Weeks to months |
| Accessibility (ramps/grab bars) | DHCD EHARP + nonprofits (Rebuilding Together) | Low income; medical need; contractor scheduling | Weeks to months |
| High utility bills | LIHEAP + Weatherization | Income eligibility; utility account; energy audit | LIHEAP seasonal; WAP waitlists |
Common Costs and What Programs Actually Pay For
| Program | Often Pays For | Rarely/No Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Section 8 Voucher | Portion of monthly rent; some utilities via utility allowance | Security deposit (ask local charities); application fees |
| Public Housing | Reduced rent; sometimes utilities included | Moves outside property; damages |
| LIHEAP Fuel/Crisis/Cooling | Heating fuel, electric bills, emergency HVAC repairs | Full past-due balances if very large |
| Weatherization | Insulation, air sealing, minor health/safety fixes | Major roof replacements (unless tied to energy health/safety) |
| USDA Section 504 | Critical health/safety home repairs; accessibility | Cosmetic improvements; luxury upgrades |
| Auxiliary Grants | Part of ALF/AFC costs | Nursing home care; private-room upgrades |
Always confirm coverage details with the administering agency—rules can differ by locality and funding.
Resources by Region (Selected)
Use HUD’s PHA directory for a complete list: Find PHAs serving Virginia
- Northern Virginia
- Fairfax County Housing & Community Development: Fairfax County Housing
- Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA): Alexandria ARHA
- Arlington County – Housing Assistance: Arlington County Housing
- Hampton Roads
- Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority: NRHA
- Virginia Beach Housing & Neighborhood Preservation: Virginia Beach Housing
- Hampton Redevelopment and Housing Authority: HNRHA
- Richmond/Central Virginia
- Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA): RRHA – Richmond
- project:HOMES (repairs/weatherization): project:HOMES
- Roanoke/Blue Ridge
- Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority: RRHA – Roanoke
Statewide directories:
- 2-1-1 Virginia (shelter, rent, utility, and local program referrals): 211Virginia.org
- Eldercare Locator (find your AAA): Find AAA
- Virginia DHCD (state repair/weatherization programs): Virginia DHCD
Note: If a link above changes, use the city or county’s official website and search for “housing” or “housing authority.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there still a statewide rent relief program in Virginia?
A: The pandemic-era Virginia Rent Relief Program ended. Today, most ongoing help is through Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, or affordable properties. For emergencies, call 2-1-1 to see if local aid is available and contact legal aid if you have an eviction case.
Q: How do I know if I’m income-eligible for a program?
A: Many programs use HUD income limits that change annually by area. Check the latest income limits here: HUD Income Limits. LIHEAP and repair programs have their own limits—verify on the official program page.
Q: I’m 62+ and own my home but can’t afford big repairs. What should I try first?
A: Start with USDA Section 504 Home Repair (grants for very low-income seniors) and a DHCD local program like Emergency Home & Accessibility Repairs. If funds don’t cover everything, add a reputable nonprofit such as Habitat for Humanity or Rebuilding Together.
Q: My landlord won’t fix unsafe conditions. What can I do?
A: Document the problem in writing and give the landlord a reasonable time to fix it. If they refuse, contact your local code enforcement office and legal aid. If you believe discrimination is involved, contact the Virginia Fair Housing Office.
Q: Can I get help with property taxes?
A: Many Virginia localities offer real estate tax relief or deferral for seniors and people with disabilities. Rules vary by area. Check your city or county tax office (examples: Fairfax County, Virginia Beach, Richmond).
Q: What about help for assisted living costs?
A: Ask about the Auxiliary Grants (AG) program if you receive SSI or meet low-income rules and need ALF or Adult Foster Care. Also check Medicaid LTSS for in-home care or facility care based on medical need and financial criteria.
Q: How long do vouchers take?
A: It depends on the locality—some waitlists are years long; others are shorter. Apply to multiple PHAs if possible and keep your contact info current so you don’t miss a selection notice.
Q: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still active?
A: Federal ACP funding ended in 2024. Some internet providers offer their own low-cost plans—ask your provider or call 2-1-1 to find current options.
More Program Summaries (At-a-Glance Tables)
Major Contacts and Where to Apply
| Topic | Agency | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Rental vouchers/public housing | HUD PHA Directory | Find Virginia PHAs |
| Affordable apartments | HUD Resource Locator | Search HUD’s map |
| State repair/accessibility/weatherization | Virginia DHCD | DHCD Programs |
| Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) | Virginia DSS | CommonHelp application |
| USDA home repair grants/loans | USDA RD Virginia | USDA Virginia State Office |
| Assisted living cash aid | Auxiliary Grants (VDSS) | AG Program info |
| Medicaid LTSS, PACE | Virginia DMAS | DMAS Home page |
| Fair housing complaints | Virginia Fair Housing Office | File/learn your rights |
When to Apply (Typical Windows – Verify Each Year)
| Program | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) | Mid-Oct to mid-Nov (varies) |
| Crisis Assistance (LIHEAP) | Winter emergency period |
| Cooling Assistance (LIHEAP) | Summer (often mid-June to mid-Aug) |
| Weatherization | Year-round; waitlists common |
| Vouchers/Public Housing | Only when waitlists open; sign up for alerts if offered |
Always check the exact dates and current funding on the official links before applying.
Sources
- HUD Public Housing Agency Directory: HUD PHA Contacts
- HUD Resource Locator: resources.hud.gov
- HUD Income Limits: huduser.gov – Income Limits
- Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD): dhcd.virginia.gov
- Virginia Department of Social Services – Energy Assistance: dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea
- CommonHelp Virginia (apply for benefits): commonhelp.virginia.gov
- USDA Rural Development – Virginia: rd.usda.gov – Virginia State Office
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair: USDA Single Family Housing Repair
- Virginia Department of Social Services – Auxiliary Grants (AG): dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ags
- Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS): dmas.virginia.gov
- Virginia Fair Housing Office (DPOR): dpor.virginia.gov/fairhousing
- 2-1-1 Virginia: 211virginia.org
- Eldercare Locator (ACL): eldercare.acl.gov
- Virginia Mortgage Relief Program (HAF): virginiamortgagerelief.com
- HUD-Approved Housing Counselors: HUD counseling search
- Dominion Energy Virginia – EnergyShare: dominionenergy.com – EnergyShare
- Appalachian Power customer assistance: appalachianpower.com – Assistance
- VA Homeless Veterans: va.gov/homeless
- HUD-VASH: va.gov/homeless/hud-vash
- SAGE (LGBTQ+ elders): sageusa.org
Disclaimer
Program rules, funding levels, eligibility, and application windows can change. Always verify details on the official agency websites linked in this guide or by calling the agency directly. This guide is for information only; it 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: April 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.