Housing Assistance for Seniors in West Virginia

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

Key Takeaways

  • For home repairs, the two most reliable public programs for seniors in West Virginia are USDA’s Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants and the federally funded Weatherization Assistance Program.
  • For rent help and affordable apartments, start with your local Housing Authority for Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing, and search HUD-subsidized senior apartments (Section 202).
  • West Virginia offers a Homestead Property Tax Exemption that reduces property taxes for homeowners age 65+ or disabled.
  • Winter heating and weatherization help are available through state and community action agencies; apply early because funding is limited and seasonal.
  • Keep expectations realistic: many programs have waitlists, income limits, and health/safety priorities. Apply to more than one program and use local agencies to get on the right lists.

What This Guide Covers (and How to Use It)

This is a practical, step-by-step guide for seniors in West Virginia who need help with:

  • Home repairs and accessibility modifications
  • Rent and affordable apartments
  • Utilities and weatherization
  • Property tax relief
  • Eviction, foreclosure, and fair housing rights
  • Special pathways for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, disabled seniors, members of tribal nations, and rural residents

You’ll find plain-English explanations, eligibility basics, direct links to official sources, tips to avoid delays, and realistic notes about waitlists and funding limits.

Quick Program Overview (At a Glance)

Program What it helps with Who it serves Key limits/notes Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants Critical home repairs; health/safety hazards Very-low-income homeowners; grants only for age 62+ Grants up to 10,000;loansupto10,000; loans up to 40,000 at 1% up to 20 years; owner-occupied rural homes USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants and USDA RD West Virginia
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Energy efficiency: insulation, sealing, furnace/AC safety Low-income households; priority for seniors & vulnerable No-cost; not cosmetic repairs; improves comfort & reduces bills WV Office of Economic Opportunity – Weatherization
LIHEAP (Energy Assistance) Heating and sometimes cooling bills; crisis help Low-income households; priority for seniors Seasonal; limited funds; apply early HHS LIHEAP – West Virginia Contacts
HUD Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) & Public Housing Help paying rent in private units or public housing Low-income seniors; income limits apply Waitlists common; local preferences vary Find your local Housing Authority
HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Subsidized apartments for very low-income seniors Age 62+ with very low income On-site supports; long waitlists in many areas HUD Section 202 info and HUD Resource Locator
WV Homestead Property Tax Exemption Reduces property taxes Homeowners age 65+ or totally/permanently disabled Exempts first $20,000 of assessed home value WV State Tax Dept. – Homestead Exemption
HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Foreclosure prevention, budgeting, rental options Homeowners and renters Free/low cost; unbiased help Find HUD-approved counselors

Notes:

  • “Very-low-income” is generally below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI); check local limits.
  • Rural eligibility for USDA covers most of West Virginia. Confirm your address with USDA.

How Housing Help Works in West Virginia: A Plain-English Overview

  • Funding flows from federal programs (USDA, HUD, HHS/DOE) to West Virginia state agencies and local nonprofits.
  • Most repair and weatherization help prioritizes health and safety issues (roof leaks, unsafe wiring, failing heating systems, accessibility barriers).
  • Rental assistance is largely administered by local Housing Authorities, HUD-subsidized properties, and nonprofit partners.
  • Most programs have income limits and require documentation (ID, income proof, deed/lease, utility bills). Funding windows open and close, and waitlists are common.
  • Strategy: apply to more than one program; ask about waitlists and “priority status” (age, disability, health risk); and keep copies of everything you submit.

Reality check: There are no guaranteed “free money” programs for general renovations. Public grants typically target urgent repairs tied to health, safety, or accessibility. Be wary of anyone charging fees to “get you a grant.”

Home Repair and Accessibility Help for Senior Homeowners

1) USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants

  • What it is: Federal program that helps very-low-income homeowners remove health/safety hazards. Seniors age 62+ who cannot repay a loan may qualify for a grant.
  • What it can cover: Critical repairs like roofing, electrical hazards, plumbing failures, structural issues, heating system repairs/replacement, and accessibility items (e.g., ramps) when they address a safety hazard.
  • Key details (official):
    • Grants up to 10,000(lifetimelimit);loansupto10,000 (lifetime limit); loans up to 40,000 at 1% interest for up to 20 years. Source: USDA Rural Development.
    • Home must be owner-occupied and in an eligible rural area (most of WV qualifies).
    • Income must be very low relative to your county’s limits.
  • How to apply:
  • Tips:
    • If you are 62+ with very low income and cannot afford a loan, ask directly about the grant portion.
    • The program prioritizes hazards; cosmetic work is not covered.

2) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it is: Free energy and safety improvements that can lower bills and make your home safer and more comfortable.
  • What it can cover: Insulation, air sealing, ventilation, furnace/AC safety checks, repair/replacement of unsafe heating systems, minor electrical/health/safety fixes tied to energy.
  • Who runs it: Administered by the state and delivered by local Community Action Agencies. Source: WV Office of Economic Opportunity.
  • Eligibility: Income-based; seniors and households with disabilities are prioritized.
  • How to apply: Call your local Community Action Agency (find through 2-1-1 or OEO). Be ready to show proof of income and utility usage.
  • Reality check: Waitlists are common. If you have a no-heat crisis, also apply for LIHEAP Crisis.

3) Local Owner-Occupied Rehab and Emergency Repairs

  • Many West Virginia cities and counties use HUD’s HOME and CDBG funds for owner-occupied rehab (sometimes “emergency repair”).
  • What’s covered: Commonly roofs, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, accessibility modifications (grab bars, ramps) when tied to safety.
  • How to find these programs:
    • Call your city/county Community Development office.
    • Ask your Area Agency on Aging (find via Eldercare Locator) who handles “owner-occupied rehab” in your county.
    • Check the HUD Resource Locator for local offices and HUD-assisted housing you can contact for referrals.
  • Tip: These local programs often open for a short application window each year; join interest lists early.

4) Charitable and Volunteer Programs

  • Habitat for Humanity affiliates sometimes offer critical home repair or ramp programs in addition to building homes. Find your local affiliate via Habitat for Humanity – Find Local.
  • Rebuilding Together affiliates (where available) focus on health/safety and accessibility repairs for low-income homeowners. See Rebuilding Together – Find your local affiliate.
  • United Way/2-1-1 can point you to local church and civic groups that build ramps or assist with minor repairs.

Reality check: Nonprofit repair programs are volunteer-driven and limited in scope. They typically focus on urgently needed, small-to-medium projects for safety and accessibility.

Rent Help and Affordable Senior Apartments

1) Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and Public Housing

  • How it works: Vouchers help pay rent in private apartments that accept them; public housing provides subsidized units owned by Housing Authorities.
  • Who to contact: Your local Housing Authority. Use the official HUD PHA Contact Search.
  • What to expect: Income limits; preferences for seniors/disabled in some areas; waitlists are common and can be lengthy.
  • Tip: Ask Housing Authorities in nearby counties too; each keeps its own waitlist.

2) HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

  • What it is: Subsidized apartments for very low-income seniors (62+), often with on-site service coordination.
  • Where to search: Use the HUD Resource Locator and ask specifically about “Section 202 elderly housing.”
  • Eligibility: Very low income; background screening; some buildings have accessibility features.
  • Reality check: Waitlists are common. Ask how to stay on the list and update your contact info regularly.

3) Other HUD-Subsidized Apartments

  • Many properties in West Virginia are subsidized through Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance or the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC).
  • Search tools: HUD Resource Locator and your local Housing Authority’s list of participating properties.

4) Recent COVID/ERA Rental Assistance

  • West Virginia’s Mountaineer Rental Assistance Program (ERA) provided emergency rent and utility help during the pandemic, but it has ended. Check the West Virginia Housing Development Fund for any updates or new programs that might replace it in the future.

Utility Bills, Heating/Cooling, and Weatherization

Program Season/Timing What it covers How to apply
LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Winter (regular and crisis), limited cooling in some years Part of your heating (and sometimes cooling) bill; crisis grants for emergencies Start with HHS LIHEAP – WV Contacts and your local DHHR office
Weatherization Assistance (WAP) Year-round but often waitlisted Insulation, sealing, furnace safety/repair, energy health & safety WV Office of Economic Opportunity or your local Community Action Agency
Utility hardship/medical protections Year-round Payment plans, medical hardship holds (varies by utility) Call your utility provider; dial 2-1-1 for local programs
Lifeline (phone/Internet discount) Year-round Monthly discount on phone or broadband Lifeline Support (USAC)

Tip: Apply for LIHEAP early; crisis help is for shutoff notices, no-heat emergencies, or fuel outages. Weatherization can complement LIHEAP by reducing bills long-term.

Property Tax Relief for Seniors

  • West Virginia’s Homestead Property Tax Exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of your owner-occupied home by $20,000 if you are age 65+ or totally and permanently disabled. Source: WV State Tax Department – Homestead Exemption.
  • Apply through your county assessor, generally by December 1 for the following tax year. Bring proof of age/disability and residency.
  • Ask your assessor about any local credits for low-income seniors.

Reality check: The exemption lowers your tax bill but does not pay it in full. If you are behind on taxes, ask the assessor about payment plans as early as possible.

Eviction, Foreclosure, and Fair Housing Protections

  • Eviction help: Contact Legal Aid of West Virginia quickly. You have more options before the hearing than after a judgment.
  • Foreclosure prevention: Talk to a HUD-approved housing counselor for free help communicating with your lender and understanding options.
  • Fair housing: It is illegal to be discriminated against based on age (in many contexts), disability, race, sex, national origin, religion, familial status, or other protected classes. File a complaint with the WV Human Rights Commission and/or HUD Fair Housing.

Reality check: Courts move quickly. Keep all notices, attend hearings, and ask the clerk about continuances if you are actively seeking assistance.

Accessibility and Home Modifications

  • Medicaid Waivers: West Virginia Medicaid has Home and Community-Based Services that may support living safely at home. Ask your Medicaid caseworker about services and if any minor environmental modifications may be available. Start at WV Bureau for Medical Services – Waiver Programs and the Aged & Disabled Waiver page.
  • VA grants for disabled veterans: The VA offers Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grants for service-connected disabilities. Source: VA Disability Housing Grants.
  • Nonprofits: Habitat and Rebuilding Together (links above) sometimes build ramps, install grab bars, or improve accessibility for safety.

Tip: When you apply for any repair program, clearly explain how the modification (ramp, grab bars, walk-in shower) addresses a safety hazard or medical need.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

  1. Get your documents together
  • Photo ID and Social Security number (or alternative ID if applicable)
  • Proof of income for everyone in the home (Social Security award letter, pension, recent tax return, pay stubs)
  • Proof you own or rent (deed, mortgage statement, or lease)
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water), shutoff notice if you have one
  • Property tax bill (homeowners)
  • Medical letters if requesting accessibility modifications
  1. Pick your target programs
  • Homeowners with urgent repairs: Apply to USDA Section 504 and Weatherization; ask your city/county about owner-occupied rehab.
  • Renters: Apply to Housing Choice Voucher waitlists and HUD-subsidized senior apartments in your region.
  • Energy bills: Apply to LIHEAP and ask your utility about hardship options.
  1. Apply early and to multiple programs
  • Many funds are first-come, first-served. If you miss a window, ask to be notified when it reopens.
  1. Follow up regularly
  • Keep a paper notebook or folder. Write down who you spoke with, dates, and next steps. Missed calls and letters can lead to a closed application.
  1. If denied
  • Ask for the decision in writing and appeal instructions. Many programs allow appeals or reapplication when circumstances change.

Documents Checklist (Print or Save)

Document Why it’s needed
Photo ID (state ID/driver’s license) Verifies identity
Social Security or benefits award letter Verifies income
Pension statement/pay stubs/tax return Verifies income
Deed or property tax bill Verifies ownership
Lease and landlord contact Verifies tenancy
Utility bills/shutoff notice Verifies need for energy help
Medical note for modifications Supports accessibility requests
Contractor estimate (if asked) Helps scope repair cost

Inclusive Help: Tailored Paths for Different Groups

Veteran Seniors

  • VA housing help: The HUD-VASH program combines a HUD housing voucher with VA case management for eligible veterans. Contact your nearest VA Medical Center Social Work office or start at VA Homeless Veterans Programs.
  • VA disability-related home modification grants: VA SAH/SHA grants.
  • You can also apply for civilian programs (USDA 504, LIHEAP, WAP, Housing Authorities).

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Seniors with Disabilities

Seniors from Tribal Nations

  • West Virginia does not have federally recognized tribes headquartered in-state, but tribal citizens living in WV can access tribal housing help through their own tribe’s housing authority and HUD’s Office of Native American Programs. Start at HUD ONAP – Eastern Woodlands.
  • You may also use state/local programs where you reside (USDA, WAP, LIHEAP, Housing Authorities).

Rural Seniors (limited access/transportation)

  • Most of West Virginia qualifies as “rural” for USDA programs—this is an advantage for Section 504 grants.
  • If travel is hard, ask agencies about mail-in or phone applications and if they can coordinate inspections/contractors directly.
  • Use 2-1-1 to find local Community Action Agencies that can sometimes come to you.

Finding Local Help (Resources by Region)

Use these official tools to find programs nearest you:

If your city has a Community Development office (e.g., Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Wheeling), call and ask about “owner-occupied rehab” or “emergency repair” programs funded by HOME/CDBG.

Program Comparison: Which One Fits Your Situation?

Your situation Likely best first step Why
You own your home, 62+, very low income, need critical repairs Apply to USDA Section 504 and Weatherization 504 can fund hazard repairs; WAP improves energy and safety
You rent, on a fixed income, struggling with rent Apply to Housing Choice Voucher and search Section 202 These reduce rent burden; ask for senior/disabled preferences
You have a shutoff notice or no heat Apply to LIHEAP Crisis and call your utility Crisis funds address emergencies quickly
You need a ramp/shower for safety Ask about 504 for hazards; ask Medicaid about waivers; try Habitat/Rebuilding Together Multiple paths increase chances for modifications
You’re behind on mortgage payments Contact HUD-approved counselor immediately Early intervention can prevent foreclosure

What to Watch Out For (Reality Checks and Warnings)

  • “Grant mills” or companies that charge fees to get you government grants. Real programs do not require you to pay to apply.
  • Contractors who want money upfront before the program approves your project.
  • Missing deadlines or paperwork: this is a common reason applications get closed. Keep a checklist and calendar reminders.
  • Over-income issues: If your income is just over the limit, ask the agency if medical expenses or other deductions can be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there a program that will replace my roof for free?

  • Maybe—if your roof failure is a health/safety hazard and you qualify by income and homeownership. USDA Section 504 and some local owner-occupied rehab programs can fund roof repairs or replacement when necessary. Apply early and be ready for an inspection. See USDA 504.

Q: I live in a mobile/manufactured home. Can I get help?

  • Yes, if you own the home (and sometimes the land) and meet program rules. USDA 504 can assist owner-occupied manufactured homes on permanent foundations under certain conditions. Check details with USDA RD WV.

Q: How long are waitlists for vouchers or senior apartments?

  • It varies by county and property. Some waitlists are months; others are years. Apply to more than one Housing Authority and ask properties if they accept applications when the list is “closed” (some keep a pre-application list).

Q: Can I combine programs (for example, Weatherization and USDA 504)?

  • Often yes. Weatherization addresses energy/safety measures; 504 can address other hazards. Tell each program if you’re applying elsewhere to avoid duplication.

Q: I’m over income by a little—what can I do?

  • Ask if medical or disability-related expenses can be considered. If not, a HUD housing counselor can help you review other options and budgeting supports.

Q: Are there programs to help build a ramp?

  • Possibly through USDA 504 (if it addresses a safety hazard), Medicaid waivers in some cases, or nonprofits like Habitat/Rebuilding Together. Have a note from your doctor or therapist explaining the medical need.

Q: Will the state pay my back property taxes?

  • West Virginia’s Homestead Exemption lowers your future bill. If you are behind, ask your county assessor about payment plans and nonprofit help via 2-1-1. See WV Tax – Homestead.

Q: My ERA rent help ended. Is anything else available?

  • The pandemic-era Mountaineer Rental Assistance has ended. You can still apply for vouchers and HUD-subsidized apartments. Also ask your local Housing Authority about any local emergency funds.

Q: How do I report housing discrimination?

Useful Tables You Can Save

Emergency & Rapid Contacts

Need Who to call or visit
Statewide referrals (shelter, rent, utility, food) West Virginia 211
Homeless services & coordinated entry WV Coalition to End Homelessness
Legal help for eviction/landlord issues Legal Aid of West Virginia
Find Housing Authority (vouchers/public housing) HUD PHA Contact Search
HUD-subsidized senior apartments HUD Resource Locator
Home repair grants/loans (rural) USDA RD West Virginia
Energy help (LIHEAP) HHS LIHEAP – WV Contacts
Weatherization WV Office of Economic Opportunity
Property tax relief WV State Tax – Homestead Exemption

Where to Search for Rental Help

Option How to search/apply
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) HUD PHA Contact Search
Public Housing HUD PHA Contact Search
Section 202 Senior Apartments HUD Resource Locator
LIHTC (tax credit) senior apartments Ask your Housing Authority or search the HUD locator; many properties list age-restricted units

Real-World Example Scenarios

  • A 74-year-old widow in Nicholas County with a leaking roof: She applied to Weatherization and USDA 504. Weatherization corrected ventilation and sealed air leaks; USDA 504 funded a roof replacement because the leak posed a safety risk.
  • A 68-year-old veteran in Cabell County on SSDI: He applied for a voucher through the Housing Authority, contacted the VA about HUD-VASH, and received help from a HUD-approved counselor to manage back rent while waiting.

Every case is different, but these steps—apply to multiple programs, document hazards, and work with official agencies—improve your chances.

Resources (Official Links)

Disclaimer

Program funding, eligibility, deadlines, and benefits can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program before applying or making financial decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, 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.